Wedding Timeline

You might think the trip down the aisle seems like a lifetime away, but the months between ‘I will’ and ‘I do’ are certain to fly by. Use this helpful timeline to keep the party planning on track.

A year or more

Select a wedding date and back up date.
Determine budget.
Select wedding party. (Including bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, ring bearer, house party, ushers and guest book attendants)
Reserve ceremony site and reception venue.
Book your officiant.
Hire a wedding planner, if desired.
Start organizing guest list.
Begin researching caterers, photographers, bands and florists.

Eight months before

Hire photographer and, if desired, videographer.
Take engagement photos.
Book the entertainment.
Schedule food tastings and select caterer.
Purchase a dress.
Reserve a hotel room block for wedding guests.
Register for gifts.
Create wedding website.
Finalize guest list.

Six months before

Send out save-the-date cards.
Order invitations.
Select and order bridesmaids’ dresses.
Book a florist.
Reserve structural and setting elements (tents, tables, chairs, lighting).
Arrange wedding day transportation.
Begin planning honeymoon. Be sure your passports are up-to-date and vaccines are current, if traveling abroad.

Four months before

Reserve rehearsal dinner location.
Send wedding invitations to calligrapher, if desired.
Select and order the wedding cake.
Purchase wedding shoes (bride and groom).
Schedule and select hair and makeup artists.
Choose your music.
Arrange dance lessons, if desired.

Three months before

Finalize menu selections.
Finalize floral selections.
Order favors, if desired.
Purchase bridal undergarments.
Schedule dress fitting.
Compose day-of timeline.
Select ceremony readings and music.
Print programs and menu pages.
Purchase the rings and buy insurance.

Two months

Send event schedule and important contact numbers to vendors.
Send photographer a list of any specific shots you want taken.
Mail invitations.
Schedule second dress fitting.

One month

Total RSVPs and reach out to guests that haven’t responded by cutoff date.
Mail rehearsal dinner invitations.
Schedule final dress fitting.
Send caterer final guest count.
Map out seating arrangement, if having a seating dinner.
Purchase attendant gifts.

Week of wedding

Reconfirm schedule with vendors.
Send a timeline to bridal party.
Pick up dress and grooms’ attire.
Set aside checks for vendors.
Pack for your honeymoon.
Have manicure and pedicure.
Attend ceremony rehearsal.
Hold rehearsal dinner, gift gifts to parents and wedding party.

Day of wedding

Relax and enjoy yourself!