Below is a suggested wedding planning timeline to help you prepare for your big day. With each step carefully mapped out, this page will be your trusted companion as you navigate through the exciting world of wedding planning.
From the initial inspiration to the grand celebration, let’s embark on this journey together, ensuring every moment is cherished and every detail falls into place.
Stay organized and on top of your wedding preparations by using our free wedding planning checklist available as a Notion template. This customizable tool will help you track your progress and ensure that no detail is overlooked as you create your dream wedding.
*Note: In order to use the check list you must sign up for a free Notion account and then Duplicate the page to your own Notion Dashboard.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding:
- Set a wedding date and create a preliminary guest list.
- Determine your budget and start saving.
- Research and book your ceremony and reception venues.
- Begin compiling ideas and inspiration for your wedding style.
- Start researching and booking key vendors, such as a wedding planner, photographer, and caterer.
9-12 Months Before the Wedding:
- Finalize your guest list.
- Choose and order your wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses.
- Hire a wedding planner if you haven’t already.
- Book your photographer, videographer, florist, and caterer.
- Begin planning your honeymoon and book necessary travel arrangements.
- Start looking into accommodation options for out-of-town guests.
6-9 Months Before the Wedding:
- Send out save-the-date cards.
- Start shopping for wedding rings.
- Book your ceremony officiant.
- Finalize and order your wedding invitations.
- Arrange transportation for the wedding day.
- Start planning your wedding ceremony and reception details, such as music and decorations.
- Begin looking for wedding favors and gifts for the wedding party.
4-6 Months Before the Wedding:
- Choose and order your wedding cake or desserts.
- Arrange for wedding day hair and makeup trials.
- Finalize and book your ceremony musicians or DJ.
- Select and purchase wedding accessories, such as shoes and jewelry.
- Start planning your rehearsal dinner.
- Schedule pre-marital counseling if desired.
- Begin planning the timeline for your wedding day.
2-4 Months Before the Wedding:
- Mail out wedding invitations.
- Schedule dress fittings and alterations.
- Arrange for rental items, such as chairs, tables, and linens.
- Confirm details with all vendors and finalize contracts.
- Plan your wedding ceremony and reception music playlist.
- Create a wedding day timeline for your bridal party and vendors.
1-2 Months Before the Wedding:
- Apply for a marriage license.
- Finalize your wedding menu with the caterer.
- Attend your final dress fitting and make any necessary adjustments.
- Confirm all details with your vendors, including arrival times and setup instructions.
- Plan and finalize the wedding day seating arrangements.
- Arrange for any necessary wedding day transportation for the bridal party and guests.
1 Week Before the Wedding:
- Confirm final guest count with your caterer and venue.
- Pack for your honeymoon and make any necessary travel arrangements.
- Finalize the wedding day timeline and distribute it to your bridal party and vendors.
- Confirm rehearsal dinner details and provide any necessary information to the venue and caterer.
- Pick up your wedding attire and ensure everything fits perfectly.
- Arrange for someone to return any rented items after the wedding.
Wedding Day:
- Relax and enjoy your special day!
- Allow yourself to be pampered and take in every moment.
- Stay present and let go of any remaining stress or worries.
- Have fun, dance, and celebrate your love with your family and friends.
Remember that this timeline is a general guide, and you may need to adjust it to fit your specific wedding planning needs and timeline.