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✅ The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

Updated: Apr 16

 


Planning a wedding? We got you. From the big “yes” to the big “I do,” here’s your go-to guide to stay organized, on schedule, and (mostly) stress-free. It focuses on what to do first, what matters most, and how to pace the planning process.






Top Priority – Start Here (12–18 Months Out)

☐ Celebrate your engagement!

☐ Set your overall budget and talk to everyone contributing.

☐ Create a rough guest list to help guide venue and budget decisions.

☐ Book your venue—dates fill up fast!

☐ Hire a wedding planner (optional, but amazing).

☐ Book your photographer and videographer—these pros book quickly.

☐ Choose your wedding date and lock in your vision and style.


High Priority – Book Your Team (9–12 Months Out)

☐ Book your DJ or band, caterer, florist, and officiant.

☐ Order your wedding dress or suit (especially if custom).

☐ Take engagement photos for use in your website and save-the-dates.

☐ Launch your wedding website and start building your registry.

☐ Secure hotel blocks for out-of-town guests.

☐ Send save-the-dates once the venue and guest list are set.


Planning Phase – Details & Decisions (6–9 Months Out)

☐ Plan and book your honeymoon if traveling far.

☐ Book transportation and hair/makeup artists.

☐ Order wedding party attire.

☐ Finalize design elements with vendors—think florals, rentals, lighting.

☐ Schedule menu tastings.

☐ Schedule hair and makeup trials.

☐ Plan ceremony details.

☐ Plan reception entertainment or special activities.


Design & Print – Set the Tone (4–6 Months Out)

☐ Order your invitations and any custom signage.

☐ Finalize the ceremony plan, readings, and music.

☐ Write your vows (or get a head start).

☐ Rent any needed extras: furniture, décor, lighting, etc.


Crunch Time – Confirm & Finalize (2–3 Months Out)

☐ Send invitations and track RSVPs.

☐ Finalize your menu and seating chart.

☐ Order your wedding rings.

☐ Book rehearsal dinner venue.

☐ Confirm vendor timelines and create a detailed schedule.


Final Countdown – One Month Out

☐ Apply for your marriage license.

☐ Have your final dress fitting.

☐ Settle up with your wedding pros - don’t forget to plan for a tip!

☐ Build your wedding day emergency kit.

☐ Prep and pack for your amazing honeymoon.


Wedding Week – Stay Calm & Organized

☐ Do a final venue walk-through.

☐ Delegate responsibilities to family or friends.

☐ Break in your shoes!

☐ Get beauty treatments early in the week.

☐ Check in with your vendors one last time.


The Day Before – Breathe & Enjoy

☐ Enjoy your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

☐ Steam all attire and organize accessories.

☐ Charge phones and pack overnight bag.

☐ Go to bed early—tomorrow’s the big day!


Wedding Day – You Made It!

☐ Eat breakfast and hydrate.

☐ Soak up every moment of getting ready.

☐ Enjoy the ceremony—don’t sweat the small stuff.

☐ Dance, laugh, and celebrate with your people.

☐ Take a quiet moment together as newlyweds.

☐ Enjoy the food and drink!


After the Wedding – Wrap It Up Right

☐ Send thank-you notes.

☐ Leave vendor reviews and return rentals.

☐ Share photos with guests

☐ Preserve dress or bouquet

☐ Create your wedding album

☐ Change your name (if you’re doing that)

Celebrate your new chapter!


Download the planning guide.




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A publication of the Worcester Business Journal - Special Projects Division. 

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Worcester, MA 01604

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