Wedding Planning Timeline

When planning a wedding, work back from the wedding day according to the timeline presented here. Six to twelve months prior to the wedding day is when the reservations and deposits need to be made. An approximate guest count will be needed to choose the wedding and reception location. Here is a list of what should be accomplished during this timeframe.

  1. Select and reserve the reception and ceremony location.
  2. Interview and reserve all wedding music talent including: Musician, DJ, Photographer/Videographer, Florist, Wedding planner or consultant (all optional)
  3. Select and confirm attendants of the bride and groom
  4. Select wedding gowns, wedding dresses, tuxedos, and any other wedding attire and coordinate fittings
  5. Arrange transportation for the bridal party on the wedding day
  6. Place engagement information in the local newspaper
  7. Ahem... if you desire to lose some weight before the big day, now would be the time to begin tracking your diet.

 

Four months prior the wedding date make sure all is in place:

  1. Finalize the guest list and compile all mailing addresses for invitations
  2. Order wedding invitations
  3. Plan for the honeymoon, make travel arrangements, and get passports (see official business)
  4. Confirm that all bridal dresses are ordered and rental attire is coordinated
  5. Begin planning the wedding shower
  6. Register for gifts. For those not registering at national chains, remember to register at stores local to the families of both bride and groom
  7. Reserve a suite for the wedding night
  8. Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out of town guests
  9. Shop for and order wedding rings
  10. Discuss living arrangements for after the wedding

 

Two months before the date:

  1. Address and mail all invitations
  2. Plan the rehearsal dinner
  3. Coordinate details for the marriage license in the state where the ceremony will take place
  4. Coordinate, order or make decorations and wedding favors.
  5. Select caterer for wedding food, drinks and cake.
  6. Select the music for the ceremony and reception

 

One month prior to the wedding date:

  1. Hold the wedding shower
  2. Complete final fittings for bridal dress and attendants dresses
  3. Schedule all hair and make up appointments
  4. Purchase gifts for the bridal party and groomsmen

 

Two weeks before the wedding date:

  1. Get a license
  2. Change names on credit cards, social security card, driver's license, and bank accounts
  3. Prepare the seating arrangement and place cards
  4. Confirm accommodations for out of town guests
  5. Confirm all details with service providers
  6. Prepare change of address paperwork and begin packing to move
  7. Give the caterer a final guest count
  8. Practice hair and make up styles; grooms hair should be cut now

 

Day before the wedding:

  1. Hold the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
  2. Rest

 

The Wedding Day:

  1. Get to the ceremony location on time
  2. Bring wedding rings
  3. Arrange for best man to pay for all services rendered and have cash for tips
  4. Eat before the ceremony or you may become ill
  5. Put on a beautiful smile for pictures and guests
  6. Be proud! A major feat has been accomplished!

 

Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning (index)
Wedding Planning Timeline
Wedding Planning Budget

Ceremony Location
Guest List
Official Business
Planning the Honeymoon
Pre-Wedding Parties
Wedding Attire
Wedding Favors
Wedding Flowers
Wedding Food
Wedding Invitations
Wedding Music
Wedding Photography
Wedding Receptions
Wedding Rings
Wedding Transportation

Copyright 2006 by Wedding Maker. Inspired by OddSource