Wedding Timetable
I always heard that it would take a solid year to plan a wedding. While I've known others who have done it in much less time, say like 4 months. After some research, I found out why a year is recommended. Here is a combined list of information that I've found, and the time table needed to get the wedding off without a hitch. (well hopefully) Good luck!
The beginning - 12 to 10 Months Before
- Set the budget - a realistic one, which is tough.
As my dad would say, " be prepared for 25% more, because it always ends up being more than you planned."
Well, probably! I don't doubt him, so maybe I should budget 25% less. :)
- Get a wedding planner - if you are seeking one, now would be the time to start calling around, and meeting with potential planners.
- Wedding Party - Time to get your wedding party together. Call the girls, and have the groom get his boys together.
- Ceremony and Reception Location - Start looking at where venues, and if you're ready to book.
- Guest List - Start compiling you're guest list, so you have a realistic number of people you're planning on coming to the wedding.
- Head count - Start settling on a head count
- Book the officiant
- Research photographers, bands, florist, and caterers
- Book the photographer and the videographer
- Book the Entertainment - Attend gigs of potential bands and see how they do.
- Caterers - Start meeting with caterers if you're location doesn't offer it own. Hire a caterer this month or early next.
- Dress - time to get the dress. Custom gowns take months to get finished, and if you purchase off the rack, then keep in mind that you'll probably need to have three fittings.
- Register - With at least three or four places.
- Set up a wedding website.
- Research Honeymoon spots.
- Purchase Invitations
- Book Honeymoon vacation
- Make sure you have your passport if traveling abroad
- Shop for bridesmaid dresses
- Send Save the Date Cards
- Arrange for transportation to wedding.
- Groom to select formal wear
Four to Five Months Before
- Book the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner venues.
- Check on Invitations
- Purchase your shoes and start wedding gown fittings.
- Order cake
- Choose music
- Try out your hair and make-up people.
- Book wedding night hotel room, and block of rooms for out of town guests.
Three Months
- Finalize menu for reception
- Order favors.
- Finalize the order of the ceremony, reception, etc. Who will be speaking at your wedding, etc.
- Purchase any special undergarments
- Have 2nd fitting
- Print menu cards and programs
- Send event schedule to vendors. So there is enough time to make any changes necessary.
Two Months
- Meet with photographer to discuss photography ideas, locations, and times.
- Review the play list with the band or DJ
- Send Invitations
- Confirm with vendors and make sure they received your schedule. In case any changes need to be made.
- Submit any announcements to local newspapers.
- Start collecting RSVP's
- Get Marriage License
- Mail Rehearsal dinner invitations
- Getting or confirm fitting of dress for the week before the wedding.
- E-mail and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles
- Confirm times of hair and make-up
- Purchase bridesmaid gifts
- Write vows
- Do any major haircuts and coloring.
- Confirm Honeymoon trip reservations.
- Pick up wedding rings
- Make arrangements for your wedding dress to be picked up or delivered.
- Send final guest list count to caterer
- Pack for Honeymoon
- Reconfirm arrivals of vendors
- Finalize seating arrangements and send to caterer
- Have rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
- Confirm lodging for out of town guests
One Day Before
- Prepare payment envelopes including tips for the limo driver, officiant, waiters, etc., and give to parents, bridesmaids or groomsmen to distribute.
- Hand out any assignment lists to make sure everyone will knows their tasks.
The Big Day
- Attend hair and make-up appointments. remember to wear a button down shirt.
- Have your overnight bag with you or brought over with luggage. (if leaving from wedding to honeymoon)
- Enjoy your day!
