The Wedding Planning Checklist!

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting experiences, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many details to consider and decisions to make, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why having a comprehensive wedding planning checklist is essential. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning or counting down the days until your big day, this guide will help you stay organised and on track.

Your Wedding Day

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

The journey to your dream wedding starts early. Here’s what you should focus on in the initial planning stages:

1. Set a Budget: The first step is determining your overall budget and how you want to allocate funds. Knowing your budget will guide every decision you make from here on out.

2. Create a Guest List: Draft an initial guest list and estimate the number of guests. This will help you choose a venue and determine other key details.

3. Choose a Wedding Date: Decide on a date that works for you and your loved ones, keeping in mind any seasonal or scheduling considerations.

4. Hire a Wedding Planner: If you’re considering hiring a wedding planner, now is the time. A planner can help with everything from vendor recommendations to day-of coordination.

5. Book a Venue: Securing your venue is crucial, as it sets the tone for your wedding and often determines the date.

6. Select a Theme or Style: Decide on the overall look and feel of your wedding. Whether it’s a rustic barn wedding or an elegant ballroom affair, having a theme will guide your decisions.

   
   

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

With the foundation set, it’s time to start bringing your vision to life:

1. Hire Key Vendors: Begin booking your photographer, videographer, caterer, and florist. Popular vendors can book up quickly, so don’t wait too long.

2. Start Shopping for Wedding Attire: Begin the search for your wedding dress and any other attire you’ll need. It’s a good idea to start early, as alterations can take time.

3. Book Entertainment: Secure your band, DJ, or any other entertainment you want for the ceremony and reception.

4. Send Save-the-Dates: Let your guests know when and where the wedding will take place by sending out save-the-dates.

5. Arrange Transportation: If you or your guests will need transportation on the wedding day, now is the time to book it.

6. Plan Your Honeymoon: Start planning your honeymoon and make any necessary travel arrangements.

   
   

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

As your wedding day approaches, it’s time to focus on the finer details:

1. Choose Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Select and order dresses for your bridal party. Be sure to consider the time needed for alterations.

2. Arrange Accommodation for Guests: If you have out-of-town guests, block out rooms at nearby hotels.

3. Select and Order Invitations: Choose your wedding invitations and any other stationery you’ll need, like RSVP cards and thank-you notes.

4. Schedule Tastings: Work with your caterer and cake designer to finalise your menu through tastings.

5. Book Hair and Makeup Artists: Find the right professionals and schedule your hair and makeup trials to ensure you get the look you want.

   
   

4-6 Months Before the Wedding

With the big day getting closer, it’s time to finalise your plans:

1. Finalise the Guest List: Confirm your guest list and start collecting RSVPs.

2. Order Wedding Rings: Choose and purchase your wedding bands.

3. Plan the Ceremony: Work with your officiant to outline the structure of your ceremony, including any readings or special rituals.

4. Finalise Details with Vendors: Confirm services, timelines, and payments with all your vendors.

5. Create a Wedding Day Timeline: Map out the schedule for your wedding day, from getting ready to the last dance.

   
   

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

Now that the big pieces are in place, it’s time to start tying up loose ends:

1. Mail Invitations: Send out your wedding invitations, including all the details your guests will need.

2. Attend Dress Fittings: Schedule and attend fittings for your wedding attire to ensure everything fits perfectly.

3. Write Vows: If you’re writing your own vows, now is the time to start drafting them.

4. Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: Organise the details for your rehearsal dinner and invite key participants.

5. Confirm Details with Vendors: Double-check all arrangements with your vendors to ensure everyone is on the same page.

6. Order Favours or Gifts: Arrange for wedding favours or small gifts for your guests to take home.

   
   

1 Month Before the Wedding

With just a month to go, it’s time to focus on final preparations:

1. Apply for a Marriage License: Make sure all legal paperwork is in order.

2. Have the Final Dress Fitting: Make sure your wedding attire is ready to go.

3. Create a Seating Chart: Finalise the seating arrangements for your reception.

4. Delegate Wedding Day Duties: Assign tasks to your bridal party and family members to ensure everything runs smoothly.

5. Confirm Headcount with Caterer: Provide your caterer with the final guest count.

   
   

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

As the wedding day approaches, focus on the finishing touches:

1. Confirm Arrival Times with Vendors: Ensure all vendors know when and where to arrive.

2. Pack for Honeymoon: Get your bags ready for your post-wedding getaway.

3. Attend Final Meetings: Meet with your wedding planner and/or vendors to finalize any last-minute details.

4. Practice Your Vows: Rehearse your vows to ensure you’re comfortable with them.

5. Break in Your Shoes: Wear your wedding shoes around the house to avoid discomfort on the big day.

   
   

1-2 Days Before the Wedding

It’s almost here! Focus on staying calm and enjoying the moment:

1. Attend the Rehearsal and Dinner: Go through the ceremony with your wedding party and enjoy the rehearsal dinner with loved ones.

2. Finalise Payments: Make sure all vendors are paid in full.

3. Pack an Emergency Kit: Include items like safety pins, tissues, and a sewing kit just in case.

4. Relax and Enjoy Time with Loved Ones: Take time to unwind and enjoy the company of those closest to you.

   
   

Wedding Day

The big day is finally here! Follow these tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Eat a Healthy Breakfast: Start your day with a nutritious meal to keep your energy up.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Allow Plenty of Time for Hair and Makeup: Start early to avoid feeling rushed.

4. Stick to Your Timeline: Follow the schedule you’ve created to keep the day on track.

5. Enjoy Every Moment: Take time to soak in the day and celebrate your love!

We understand that this checklist might feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. As your wedding planner, my goal is to take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on the joyful, exciting parts of planning your special day. I’m here to ensure that the journey toward your wedding is one you’ll enjoy and cherish, filled with beautiful moments and memories. If you’re wondering how we can make this happen, I’d love to chat with you about the process and see if we’re the perfect fit for your celebration. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at +61 421 497 134 or fill out our contact form. We offer free consultations and are happy to share advice and tips on wedding planning. And if you decide to plan your wedding on your own, that’s perfectly fine—we’re always here to support a beautiful love story!