Wedding Planning Timelines, Checklists and Templates
How to get started
When we were planning our own wedding,
we were also struggling with bits and pieces until we fixed one thing: a reception venue.
Immediately, that narrowed down choice of ceremony locations, and we reserved
our ceremony venue.
After that, planning started moving: we could price a photographer and
catering. The biggest rocks were out of the way; guests were invited.
Next came the dress / the tux, the rings and
the limo.
Our advice: fix the big things first (sites/venues), everything
else will snap to those.
Wedding Planning Timeline and a Checklist
12-9 Months Before the Wedding
Hire (or do not hire!) a wedding planner
Tour and select a ceremony site
Book a reception venue
9-6 Months Before the Wedding
Pick a wedding dress
Interview and select a photographer
Hire a videographer
Sample and decide on a caterer
Order a wedding cake
6-3 Months Before the Wedding
Do an engagement photoshoot
Find the rings
3 Months Before the Wedding
Select a limousine service
2 Months Before the Wedding
Create a playlist and download your favorite songs
1 Month Before the Wedding
Two Weeks Before the Wedding
One Week Before the Wedding
Two Days Before the Wedding
The Day Before the Wedding
The Day of The Wedding!
3 Days After the Wedding
1 Week After the Wedding
30 Days After the Wedding
Arrange for the dress to be cleaned and preserved - or do a trash-the-dress photoshoot!
Half a Year After the Wedding
Wedding Planning 101
10 Summer Wedding Color Palette Ideas
Late spring into the summer months kicks off official “wedding season” when a majority of people love to plan their big ... More
When a Pandemic Ruins Your Wedding Plans
You’ve been planning your wedding day for some time and you couldn’t be more excited. Then, BAM. Everything has changed ... More
Fifteen Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Adore
While not strictly required, wedding favors are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for sharing your special day. Even... More
Ultra-Pretty Wedding Guest Outfits
Aesthetics are everything when it comes to hosting the perfect wedding. Finding a picturesque venue with plenty of idyll... More
12 Creative Ideas for the Bridal Shower
When you’re throwing a wedding shower, you want the occasion to be special. Prepare well in advance, send out the invita... More
How to pick the right shoes for the wedding for guys
Ok, so shoes are not a big deal for guys, right? Right. The only thing you need to be able to do in your shoes is look g... More
How to find a wedding officiant - or how to make your friend...
In many states, you can only be legally married by a judge or a religious affiliate. Unless your venue provides a weddin... More
See all