Congratulations—you’re engaged! Whether you’re still admiring your ring or already envisioning your dream day, wedding planning can be both thrilling and overwhelming. With so many decisions to make, it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of to-dos. That’s why having a well-organized wedding planning checklist is essential.
This ultimate step-by-step guide breaks down everything you need to tackle—from the moment you say “yes” to the day you say “I do.” Let’s dive in!
12+ Months Before the Wedding: Set the Foundation
Celebrate and Announce Your Engagement
Take time to enjoy the moment! Host an engagement party if you’d like, or keep it simple with a celebratory dinner with family and friends.
Discuss Budget and Priorities
Sit down with your partner (and any contributing family members) to determine a realistic budget. Decide on top priorities: venue, food, guest count, or entertainment.
Choose a Wedding Date (or a few options)
Consider season, availability, and meaningful dates. Flexibility will help when booking venues and vendors.
Create a Guest List
Start drafting a rough guest list to gauge the size of your event. This affects everything from venue choice to catering.
Hire a Wedding Planner (optional)
A full-service planner, month-of coordinator, or day-of expert can help reduce stress and streamline logistics.
Research and Book the Venue
Venues book up fast—especially during peak seasons. Once you’ve secured your space, everything else can fall into place.
9–12 Months Before the Wedding: Secure Key Vendors
Book Major Vendors
Lock in high-demand vendors early:
- Caterer
- Photographer/videographer
- Band or DJ
- Officiant
- Florist
Shop for the Wedding Dress
Start early to allow time for ordering and alterations. Explore styles, designers, and boutiques.
Decide on Your Wedding Theme or Style
Boho chic? Elegant garden? Modern minimalist? Choose a theme or vibe to guide your décor and wardrobe choices.
Create a Wedding Website
Include key details: your love story, venue info, registry links, and RSVP instructions.
6–9 Months Before the Wedding: Dive Into Details
Finalize the Guest List
Confirm with families and finalize the total number of invites.
Send Save-the-Dates
Especially important for destination weddings or out-of-town guests.
Shop for Bridesmaids’ Dresses & Groomsmen Attire
Give your wedding party time for fittings and alterations.
Order Rentals and Décor
Reserve items like:
- Tables and chairs
- Lighting
- Linens
- Ceremony arches
Schedule Engagement Photos
These can double as save-the-date cards or wedding website images.
4–6 Months Before the Wedding: Personal Touches and Planning
Plan the Ceremony
Work with your officiant to outline your ceremony structure. Start writing your vows if you’re going the personal route.
Book Hair and Makeup Artists
Schedule a trial run to finalize your look.
Finalize the Menu and Cake Design
Taste-test with your caterer and bakery to select the perfect menu and dessert.
Choose Wedding Bands
Start shopping for rings that fit your style and budget.
Book Transportation
Secure rides for the wedding party, guests (if needed), and the getaway car.
2–4 Months Before the Wedding: Confirm and Customize
Send Out Invitations
Include RSVP cards, meal choices (if applicable), and clear instructions.
Schedule Fittings
Get your wedding attire altered and ready to go. Don’t forget accessories, shoes, and undergarments.
Create a Wedding Day Timeline
Map out the entire day—from hair appointments to the last dance.
Purchase Wedding Favors and Welcome Bags
Plan thoughtful tokens of appreciation for your guests.
Plan the Honeymoon
Book flights, accommodations, and activities. Double-check passport or visa requirements if going international.
1–2 Months Before the Wedding: Final Prep Mode
Apply for Your Marriage License
Check your state or country’s requirements, including waiting periods and documentation needed.
Finalize Seating Chart and Floor Plan
Coordinate with your venue and caterer to ensure flow and comfort.
Confirm with All Vendors
Touch base with each vendor to confirm arrival times, payments, and final details.
Write Speeches and Toasts
Grooms, brides, best men, and maids of honor—get your thoughts on paper early.
Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Wear them around the house to avoid blisters on the big day.
1–2 Weeks Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown
Follow Up on RSVPs
Call or message any guests who haven’t responded.
Pack for the Wedding and Honeymoon
Don’t forget documents, attire, accessories, and essentials for the honeymoon.
Beauty Prep
Get your hair trimmed, brows shaped, or nails done—whatever makes you feel your best.
Distribute Final Payments and Tips
Prepare envelopes and assign someone to hand them out on the wedding day.
Create an Emergency Kit
Include safety pins, mints, pain relievers, stain remover, snacks, and a phone charger.
Wedding Day: Relax and Celebrate!
Eat a Good Breakfast
You’ll need energy for the full day ahead.
Follow Your Timeline (But Stay Flexible)
Let your planner, coordinator, or trusted friend handle any hiccups.
Soak in the Moment
Take time to pause, breathe, and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime day with your partner.
After the Wedding: Post-Celebration To-Dos
- Send thank-you notes within a few weeks.
- Preserve your dress and bouquet.
- Leave reviews for your vendors.
- Change your name or update documents, if applicable.
- Print and share your wedding photos!
Final Thoughts
Wedding planning is a journey filled with decisions, emotions, and unforgettable memories. While no two weddings are the same, a well-thought-out checklist helps keep stress low and excitement high. Whether you’re planning an elegant affair or a cozy backyard celebration, this guide will help you stay organized and focused every step of the way.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating a celebration that reflects your love story.
Now take a deep breath—you’ve got this!
