The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

June 2, 2025 11:47 am by Alex

Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many details to consider, it’s essential to stay organised and on track. This ultimate wedding planning checklist will guide you through the process, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

Set a Budget – Determine how much you can spend and who will contribute.
Create a Guest List – Draft a preliminary list of guests to estimate the size of your wedding.
Choose a Date – Select a few potential dates and consider the season, venue availability, and any significant events.
Book a Venue – Research and visit potential venues. Book your preferred location as soon as possible.
Hire a Wedding Planner (if desired) – Consider hiring a professional to help with planning and coordination.
Select a Theme or Style – Decide on the overall look and feel of your wedding.
Start Researching Vendors – Look into photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment options.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

Send Save-the-Dates – Notify guests of your wedding date and location.
Book Key Vendors – Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment.
Choose Attire – Start shopping for your wedding dress and attire for the bridal party.
Plan the Ceremony – Decide on the type of ceremony (religious, civil, etc.) and meet with officiants.
Register for Gifts – Create a wedding registry at your favourite stores.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

Finalise Guest List – Confirm the number of guests and send out invitations.
Book Additional Vendors – Hire a florist, baker, and any additional vendors needed.
Plan the Honeymoon – Research and book your honeymoon destination.
Arrange Transportation – Importance of Transportation: Organising transportation is crucial for ensuring that you, your wedding party, and your guests arrive at the venue on time and safely. Consider the following:
- Types of Transportation: Decide whether you’ll need limousines, vintage cars, shuttles, or other vehicles.
- Logistics: Plan the pick-up and drop-off locations, especially if the ceremony and reception are at different venues.
- Guest Comfort: Providing transportation for guests can enhance their experience and reduce stress, especially for those travelling from out of town.
- Timing: Ensure that transportation is scheduled to accommodate the timeline of your wedding day.
Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials – Book appointments to try out different looks.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding

Order Wedding Invitations – Choose and order your invitations and any other stationery.
Finalise Menu and Cake – Confirm the menu with your caterer and finalise the cake design.
Plan the Rehearsal Dinner – Decide on a location and guest list for the rehearsal dinner.
Create a Wedding Day Timeline – Outline the schedule for the day, including the ceremony, reception, and any special events.

1-3 Months Before the Wedding

Send Invitations – Mail out your invitations and track RSVPs.
Finalise Details with Vendors – Confirm all details with your vendors, including arrival times and services.
Purchase Wedding Rings – Shop for and purchase wedding bands.
Plan Seating Arrangements – Create a seating chart for the reception.
Prepare for the Ceremony – Confirm readings, music, and any special rituals.

2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding

Confirm RSVPs – Follow up with guests who haven’t responded.
Finalise the Timeline – Share the final timeline with your vendors and wedding party.
Pack for the Honeymoon – Prepare and pack for your honeymoon.
Have Final Dress Fittings – Ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly.
Create an Emergency Kit – Prepare a kit with essentials like safety pins, makeup, and snacks.

1 Week Before the Wedding

Confirm Details with Vendors – Double-check arrangements with all vendors.
Relax and Enjoy – Take time for self-care and relaxation before the big day.
Delegate Tasks – Assign responsibilities to trusted friends or family members.

Wedding Day

Eat a Good Breakfast – Fuel up for the day ahead.
Get Ready – Allow plenty of time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed.
Enjoy the Moment – Take a deep breath and enjoy your special day!

Post-Wedding

Send Thank-You Notes – Express gratitude to guests and vendors.
Preserve Your Dress – Consider having your wedding dress cleaned and preserved.
Review Vendors – Share your experience with vendors to help future couples.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that your wedding planning process is organised and enjoyable. Remember to take time to savour each moment, as your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life!