You said yes!
It’s super hard to squeal in print—but this is definitely an occasion where we wish we could. Tying the knot is a huge deal, an incredibly poignant life changing moment. An opportunity to gather friends and loved ones close, raise glasses and toast first finding and uniting with your soul mate. Yes!
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. There’s something important to attend to first, you’ve got to plan the dang thing. And that, my friend, is no small feat. To set you up for success, here’s a wedding timeline filled with all the boxes you need to check.
Important Things to Know Before You Start Planning Your Wedding
Before getting started, it’s crucial you know the answer to these questions:
- what kind of celebration you’re planning—what’s the overall vibe, and theme?
- What’s your budget?
- What’s the general headcount of guests that will be attending?
- Will you be enlisting the help of a wedding planner, or will you be in charge of putting this all together?
As you work your way through the list, keep in mind that depending on your celebration, not all of these points will be relevant to you. In addition, we’re being generous here and assuming you have a year to plan. Only have six months to plan or less? No prob. You’ll just be working in half the amount of time.
12 Months Before the Wedding
The first three months involve bringing the foundation of your vision to life. Here’s where you’ll get all the major details in place. Keep in mind that depending on your celebration, not every point will be relevant in your particular case.
- Start looking for the venue
- Choose a date for the wedding
- Find a wedding photographer
- Select your wedding party
- Decide how to track the expenses
- Plan out how you’ll stay organized, either on paper or through digital means
- Start to gather inspo
- Hire a wedding planner
- Choose your officiant
9 Months Before the Wedding
Okay, you’ve got the foundation in place and put a deposit on the perfect venue. Now’s the time to spread the word, and start to pull in all the special details.
- Start looking for your wedding gown
- Choose the bridesmaid dresses (check out Bella Bridesmaids!)
- Find your other vendors, you’ll need a florist, caterer, entertainment, etc.
- Pick your color scheme
- Plan out the décor
- Plan the ceremony and reception details
- Take engagement photos
- Start putting together the wedding website
- Send out your save the dates
6 Months Before the Wedding
Your big day is getting closer! Even though the major details have been checked off the list, there’s still a lot to do and keep track of.
- Send out the wedding invitations
- Start planning your honeymoon
- Finalize your vendors
- Hire a hair and makeup artist
- Choose and book the rehearsal dinner venue
- Purchase the rings, jewelry, and other wedding day accessories
- Check out hotel block options to book accommodation for your out-of-town guests
- Start writing your vows
3 Months Before the Wedding
You’re in the home stretch! Keep that momentum going. Remember, if you’re feeling stressed it’s okay to reach out and delegate tasks and responsibilities if you haven’t already.
- Finalize the reception and ceremony details
- Have dress fittings, both for yourself and your bridesmaids
- DIY and/or purchase your décor items
- Confirm that your vendors know where to be, and when
- Get your marriage license
- Create the timeline for the wedding day, and share it with the wedding party
1 Month Before the Wedding
Your big day is weeks away! Now’s the time for the finishing touches.
- Finalize your hair and makeup look
- Collect the RSVP’s and share the details with vendors
- Finalize the seating chart
- Have final dress fittings
- Prepare tip envelopes for vendors
- Secure transportation
- Put together the wedding day emergency kit
- Pack for the honeymoon
1 Week Before the Wedding
At this point, all the major details have been taken care of. Besides a few final details, your goal here is to get all the rest and relaxation you need so you wake up feeling fresh and energized on your wedding day.
- Give the venue and your vendors a timeline
- Get a mani-pedi
- Make sure your maid of honor or whomever you’ve chosen as your point-person is aware of the duties
- Go through your list one last time and take care of any lingering items that need to be resolved
Conclusion:
Remember, this is just a general guideline. The specifics of your big day may involve doing more or less. However, if you make a habit of adhering to your list and keep it updated as you work your way through it, your chances of missing something are slim to none.
Remember, though the list may seem daunting, it’s still possible to have fun. Ask for help when you need it, and enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity to make your dream come true.
