✅ The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: Everything You Need to Know
- We Do!
- Apr 12
- 3 min read
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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