Plan your wedding stress free
Planning a wedding is fun and exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. The best way to keep your wedding planning on track is to tackle it month by month. Here’s our step by step guide.
12-18 months before the wedding:
Set your budget
Find your wedding venue and check its availability
If you have your heart set on key vendors, see if they have availability on your preferred dates
Set your wedding date
Secure your priority vendors with contracts and deposits
Start building your guest list
Send out save the dates
9-11 months before the wedding:
Hire a wedding planner. If you opt for a wedding planner, you can hire one at this stage to help with logistics and vendor selection. You can do this before you find your venue if you need help with your search.
Book remaining vendors including photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, entertainment, transport, hair and makeup.
Start trying on wedding dresses. They can take up to 8 months to be made.
Plan if you’re going to have any pre or post wedding events.
6-8 months before the wedding:
Choose your bridesmaid dresses (if you have bridesmaids, that is). And, make sure your partner has their outfit organised.
Choose and order invitations: make sure to include RSVP cards or a website address, a timeline of events and dress code as well as accommodation options. Now’s a good time to ask for dietary requirements.
Book in any further stationary requirements e.g. menus, table plans and welcome signs - you can provide the details nearer the time.
4-5 months before the wedding:
Plan your ceremony. Work with your officiant to outline the ceremony details including readings, vows and music. Ask the people you want to contribute.
Select decor and flowers - turn the Pinterest into a reality.
3 months before the wedding:
Arrange transportation for you and your bridal party to and from the ceremony and reception.
Finalise your menu, including any dietary restrictions or special requests.
2 months before the wedding:
Confirm details with vendors. Reach out to all your vendors to confirm details and provide them with a timeline for the day.
Purchase wedding rings: buy your wedding rings and have them resized if necessary.
Choose your wedding accessories. You’ll need your confirmed for your finer dress fittings so don’t leave your footwear choice to the last minute.
Give notice on your intention to marry: obtain your marriage licence, and don't forget to check the requirements in your location. In the UK you have to give notice at least 29 days before your ceremony.
1 month before the wedding:
Create a seating chart: finalise your guest list and figure our where they’re sitting at your reception.
Finalise the rest of your wedding stationary including food and drink menus, signage and reserved seating.
1-2 weeks before the wedding:
Final fittings: schedule final fittings for your dress / suits.
Ensure all of your stationary has arrived
Check-in again with your venue and vendors. Ensure the people closest to you have a good idea of how you want the day to run.
And you’ve made it to your wedding! This is just a guideline but remember, flexibility is key, and the most important thing is to cherish the moments leading up to your special day. Enjoy and good luck!
