The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

0112-9 Months Before

• Set a realistic overall budget
• Draft a rough guest list
• Choose a wedding date
• Book ceremony and reception venue
• Hire a wedding planner, if using one
• Research photographers and videographers
• Choose your wedding party
• Create a shared planning document

028-6 Months Before

• Book photographer and videographer
• Book catering
• Order dress or suit
• Book a florist
• Book music: band or DJ
• Start planning the honeymoon
• Create a wedding registry
• Book hotel room block

035-3 Months Before

• Send save-the-dates
• Order invitations
• Finalize guest list
• Choose bridal party attire
• Book hair and makeup trials
• Plan ceremony structure
• Book transportation
• Order wedding rings
• Book officiant

042 Months Before

• Mail invitations
• Finalize menu with caterer
• Confirm timeline with vendors
• Finalize accessories
• Final dress fitting
• Write vows
• Apply for marriage license
• Draft seating chart

051 Month Before

• Track RSVPs
• Finalize seating chart
• Confirm final headcount
• Pick up marriage license
• Confirm details with every vendor in writing
• Break in wedding shoes
• Plan rehearsal dinner
• Pack for honeymoon

06Week Of & Day Of

• Confirm arrival times with wedding party
• Give final headcount to venue
• Pack an emergency kit
• Delegate a day-of point person
• Get a good night's sleep
• Eat breakfast before getting ready
• Assign someone for gifts and cards