Congratulations on your engagement! Now that the excitement has settled, it’s time to start planning your dream wedding. With so many details to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help make the process smoother, we’ve created a comprehensive wedding timeline outlining the essential tasks and milestones to achieve between now and your big day. This way, you can focus on enjoying the journey and not worrying about missing crucial steps along the way.
Once You’re Engaged…
Once the ring is securely on your finger, it’s time to share the exciting news with loved ones. Share the joy of your engagement on social media platforms like Instagram, accompanied by a sweet photo of that sparkling new ring (#engaged). Meanwhile, sit down with your fiancé and start planning the logistics of your special day.
Allocate your budget wisely, considering categories such as reception and ceremony (36%), honeymoon and travel arrangements (20%), the bride’s attire (10%), flowers and decorations (10%), photography and videography (10%), music and entertainment (6%), invitations and bomboniere (4%), and miscellaneous expenses (4%). With your financial plan in place, you can start exploring potential venues for your wedding, narrowing down options to a select few.
You’ll also want to finalize a date or two for the big day and begin crafting your guest list and bridal party.
12 Months Before…
As you’re planning your special day, don’t forget to lock in some crucial details. Start by setting a firm date for your wedding, making sure to give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Next, book your venue early on to avoid any last-minute stress and ensure that all the important dates are aligned. You’ll also want to secure the services of a photographer and/or videographer who can capture your big day from the right angle.
This is especially important if you’re planning a wedding in 2020 or 2021, as popular professionals may already have busy schedules. In addition to nailing down these logistical details, it’s time to start thinking about your bridal party and officially extend those invitations. This will give everyone involved plenty of time to make necessary arrangements. While you’re at it, take some time to explore the world of wedding dresses and find the perfect fit for your unique style.
You might also want to start dreaming up the sweet treats that will be served at your reception – from flavor to shape to size, think about what kind of cake will make your guests swoon.
11 months before…
To create a cohesive look for the ceremony and reception, plan the decor and theme well in advance. Schedule appointments with florists to design bouquets and centerpieces that reflect your unique style. If you’re not using an in-house caterer at your venue, be sure to book one early on to avoid any last-minute snafus. Don’t forget to inform overseas guests of your special day’s plans, giving them ample time to make travel arrangements.
Meanwhile, secure the services of a makeup artist and hairstylist by booking appointments well ahead of time to ensure they’re available for your big day. By tackling these tasks early on, you’ll be able to relax knowing that many details are taken care of, allowing you to focus on the excitement and joy of your wedding celebration.
10 Months Before…
As you prepare to embark on this new chapter in your life, there are several crucial steps to take care of before the big day arrives. One such essential task is setting up your gift registry, which will make it easier for loved ones to get you exactly what you want. Another vital step is finalising your guest list, ensuring that all the important people in your life receive an invitation.
You’ll also need to find a qualified officiant to conduct your ceremony and imbue your union with meaning and sincerity. Additionally, consider whether you’ll be incorporating live music into your celebration – perhaps a band, DJ or singer – and make sure it sets the perfect tone for both your ceremony and reception.
9 Months before…
As the big day approaches, the moment arrives when you get to bring your wedding vision to life by ordering your dream bridal gown. It’s a thrilling milestone that requires careful consideration and precision. After all, this is the garment that will make you feel like a princess on your special day.
8 Months Before…
As you plan your special day, don’t forget to make sure every detail matches your unique style. Start by ordering accessories that complement your colour theme and perfectly match your wedding dress. Next, consider personalising your wedding rings and jewellery with custom designs or engravings that tell a story about your love. To stay on top of things, send out save the dates either online or through traditional mail.
This will give your guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and join in the celebration. And don’t forget to start planning your dream honeymoon! Research the location you’ve chosen and make a list of fun activities you can do together as newlyweds. From romantic getaways to adventure-filled escapades, there are countless ways to make your post-wedding trip unforgettable.
6 Months Before…
As the excitement builds around your upcoming wedding, it’s essential to take care of the finer details. With so many moving parts, it’s crucial to surround yourself with talented professionals who can bring your vision to life.
Here are some key players to consider: a skilled floral designer from Wilderness Flowers to craft stunning arrangements, a reliable transportation provider for getting you and your guests around, and an experienced photographer and videographer duo to capture the magic of your special day. Meanwhile, be sure to finalize all details with your venue and caterer, choose a cake designer who can create a masterpiece that’s almost too beautiful to eat (almost!
), and select attire for your bridal party that makes them feel like royalty. By tackling these tasks, you’ll be well-prepared for the big day ahead.
4 Months Before…
When planning a wedding, there are several key elements to consider to ensure the big day runs smoothly. Entertainment options for the reception should be top of mind, including deciding on the perfect playlist or hiring a DJ or band to keep guests entertained. Additionally, music choices for the ceremony itself should also be carefully considered, as this sets the tone for the entire event.
To complement these musical elements, consider booking singers or musicians to perform during the ceremony. Furthermore, don’t forget about logistical details such as ordering necessary stationery items like invitations, order of service, place cards, thank you cards, and bomboniere. Finally, be prepared for any unexpected weather conditions by having a backup plan in place if your ceremony or reception is being held outdoors.
3 Months Before…
Prior to your special day, you’ll want to consider a few essential tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly. First, select your speech makers – whether it’s best man, maid of honor, or anyone else who will be sharing words with the crowd. Next, gather documentation from your celebrant or minister and fill out any necessary forms before returning them. This will help streamline the ceremony process and avoid any last-minute stress.
You’ll also want to decide on specific music and songs to be played during the event, particularly for that romantic first dance. Don’t forget to take care of the little things, like buying shoes, underwear, and a honeymoon wardrobe that’s both comfortable and stylish. To capture those unforgettable moments, consider working with a professional photographer like Ariana Photography Studio.
2 Months Before…
As the big day approaches, several essential tasks need to be completed. First, order your flowers to ensure they are tailored to your wedding vision and arranged accordingly. Next, finalize your guest list and send out invitations to loved ones, allowing them to make necessary travel arrangements. Meanwhile, visit your jeweller to collect the wedding rings that will symbolize your commitment to each other.
Additionally, place an order for your wedding cake, which should be a delicious representation of your special day. Finally, schedule a pre-wedding photography shoot with a professional photographer to capture those precious moments before you say ‘I do’.
6 Weeks Before…
To ensure a seamless and stress-free wedding planning experience, it’s essential to stay on top of various tasks. Start by tracking and recording all RSVPs to your guests, which will help you plan accordingly for the big day. Additionally, confirm the order with your chosen floral designer to guarantee that your wedding blooms are exactly as you envisioned them.
Furthermore, don’t forget to have the engagement ring cleaned by a professional jeweller to maintain its sparkle and ensure it’s in pristine condition for the special moment when you’ll be exchanging vows with your loved one.
4 Weeks Before…
As you approach the final stretch before your dreamy honeymoon, it’s crucial to tie up loose ends. Ensure that all travel documents are in order by finalizing passport details, obtaining necessary insurance coverage, applying for visas if required, and scheduling any required vaccinations or injections. Next, double-check all transportation arrangements to avoid any last-minute surprises.
With the big day just around the corner, it’s also essential to test out your wedding day beauty routine by trying out different makeup looks and experimenting with hairstyles. Don’t forget to schedule final fittings for the entire bridal party to ensure everyone looks their absolute best in front of the camera. James Rubio Photography will capture every special moment as you embark on this unforgettable adventure.
3 Weeks Before…
As the big day approaches, it’s time to put together the finishing touches. Start by trying out different hairstyles with a veil or headpiece to find the perfect combination that makes you feel like a princess. If needed, don’t hesitate to revisit your makeup look and make any necessary adjustments. Meanwhile, don’t forget about your partner! Men’s haircuts are just as important, so make sure they’re looking sharp too.
Once you’ve got everyone looking their absolute best, move on to the logistics. Confirm your cake order to ensure it fits in with your theme and vision. And finally, finalize those reception numbers and create a seating plan that will keep everything running smoothly.
2 Weeks Before…
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to confirm all the necessary details before your special day. Start by verifying the bookings for your photographer and videographer, making sure they’re aware of the schedule and any specific requirements you may have. Next, take care of the personal touches by writing the names of your guests on place cards, adding a thoughtful and personalized touch to the celebration.
Furthermore, confirm the bookings for entertainment, such as music or performances, to guarantee a memorable experience for your loved ones. Additionally, don’t forget to prepare for any international travel by ordering foreign currency and notifying your bank of your trip dates, so you can avoid any last-minute complications.
1 Week Before…
As the big day approaches, it’s essential to confirm all the finer details with your vendors. This includes arranging for hair and makeup, getting plenty of rest before the ceremony, and scheduling a manicure 1-2 days beforehand. Make sure to give yourself ample time to get ready on the morning of the wedding. In preparation for the big day, clean your engagement ring at home to ensure it’s sparkling when you put it on.
Additionally, confirm all cake details with your baker or caterer and arrange for delivery. Don’t forget to confirm the reception layout and arrangements as well. A full rehearsal of the ceremony is crucial to ensure everything runs smoothly on the wedding day. Create a timetable outlining the schedule of events from setup to send-off. This will help you stay organized and reduce last-minute stress.
Confirm all details with your photographer, videographer, and other vendors to avoid any mix-ups or misunderstandings. Try on your complete outfit a few days before the wedding to ensure it fits well and make any necessary alterations. Arrange for collection of hire wear and break-in your wedding shoes to prevent blisters. Reconfirm transportation arrangements, floral delivery details, and entertainment plans to guarantee a seamless day.
Have place cards ready for distribution according to your seating plan. Finally, pack essential items like sunscreen, medication, and a change of clothes for the honeymoon and overnight accommodation.