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12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline and Checklist
If you don't know where to start your wedding planning, start with this timeline. Set deadlines for yourself and follow the guidelines below. If you have less than six months to plan, don't worry -- just get planning as soon as you can!
Happy planning!
12 months or more ahead
Formal or informal? Big or small? Think about the type of wedding you want and what time of year you want it to take place.
Set budget.
Set the wedding date.
Select ceremony site and reserve.
Select reception site and reserve.
Buy wedding rings, order engravings.
Hire wedding coordinator, if desired.
Six months or more ahead
Order dress and accessories, including veil, shoes, stockings, lingerie, etc.
Compile guest list and organize addresses.
Finalize wedding date.
Choose attendants.
Book officiant.
Book caterer.
Book florist.
Order wedding cake.
Book music for reception and ceremony.
Book photographer and videographer.
Plan and book honeymoon.
Send save-the-date cards, if using.
Choose favors and plan any details of reception, decorations, balloons, etc.
Select bridal registry.
Purchase or reserve groom's attire.
Select attendants' gowns.
Select men's formalwear.
Arrange transportation and limousine for the wedding day.
Reserve rental equipment, such as tables, chairs, tents, etc.
Order stationery, including invitations and thank-you notes.
Book a room for wedding night and reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Four months ahead
Make reservations for rehearsal dinner.
Choose gifts for wedding party.
Write thank-you notes as gifts arrive.
Shop for trousseau.
Find a new place to live.
Shop for home furnishings.
Set an appointment for a complete physical exam.
Update your immunizations.
Finalize honeymoon plans.
Two months ahead
Discuss details of menu with caterer.
Discuss service with officiant.
Choose readings for ceremony.
Write your wedding vows, if you choose.
Try out makeup and hairstyle.
Buy guest book.
Have programs printed, if using.
If your state requires blood tests, make appointments to be tested.
Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner.
Address and mail invitations.
Check local newspaper for wedding announcement deadline.
Obtain marriage license and request certificate copies.
If you intend to change your name, prepare the necessary documents.
Send change-of-address information to post office.
Two weeks ahead
Have final dress fitting with shoes, jewelry and lingerie.
Begin seating plan, and write place cards.
Notify caterer of guest count.
Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception.
Address announcements.
Break in wedding shoes at home.
Designate someone to look after your home while you are on your honeymoon.
Find out where your guests will be staying if you plan to deliver welcome notes or gifts to their rooms.
Finalize seating plan.
Assign specific responsibilities, such as handing out corsages and boutonnieres, to members of your wedding party.
Pick up dress or have it delivered.
Confirm details with caterer.
Confirm honeymoon arrangements, and give your itinerary to a friend or family member in case of emergency.
Pack for honeymoon.
Update caterer with final guest count.
One day ahead
Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception.
Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding.
Have manicure and pedicure.
Rehearse ceremony.
Hold rehearsal dinner; give gifts to parents and wedding party.
Prepare tip and payment envelopes for vendors.
Your wedding day!
Relax, and enjoy yourselves. You have planned well!