The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

Once the engagement ring is on, the excitement begins! Planning a wedding is one of the most special journeys you’ll ever embark on, but with so many details to consider, it can feel overwhelming. The key to a stress-free wedding planning experience is organisation, time management, and a structured checklist.

While every couple’s timeline is different, a 12 to 14-month engagement is ideal for spreading out tasks and ensuring everything is carefully planned. Whether you’re having a grand celebration or a small intimate gathering, this month-by-month wedding planning checklist will help keep you on track and ensure your big day runs smoothly.

wedding planning checklist

12 Months Before the Wedding – The Foundation

  • Set your wedding budget and allocate spending categories.
  • Draft your guest list – start with must-invites.
  • Choose your wedding date and book your venue.
  • Hire a wedding planner (optional).
  • Decide on your wedding theme and style.

💡 Tip: Keep a shared digital document to track budgets, guest lists, and vendor details.

9-11 Months Before the Wedding – Book Your Key Vendors

  • Hire your wedding photographer & videographer.
  • Book your caterer and schedule a tasting.
  • Start shopping for your wedding dress.
  • Choose bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire.
  • Plan & order invitations.
  • Start planning your honeymoon.

💡 Tip: Create a wedding website to keep guests informed about your big day.

Wedding dress shopping

6-8 Months Before the Wedding – Finalise Key Details

  • Confirm your guest list and collect addresses.
  • Finalise your caterer and menu selection.
  • Book your florist and discuss arrangements.
  • Plan ceremony details and hire an officiant.
  • Book hair & makeup artists and schedule trials.

💡 Tip: Think about a “first look” session with your photographer—it’s a great way to capture intimate moments before the ceremony.

4-6 Months Before the Wedding – Bringing It Together

  • Send out wedding invitations.
  • Choose & arrange groomsmen and bridal party attire.
  • Book wedding day transportation.
  • Schedule final dress fittings.

💡 Tip: Consider having a ‘wedding dress rehearsal’ to ensure comfort on the big day.

Wedding planning

2-3 Months Before the Wedding – The Fine Details

  • Confirm final guest count.
  • Finalise all supplier bookings.
  • Create a detailed wedding timeline.
  • Arrange seating plans.

💡 Tip: Having a designated point of contact (like a planner or trusted friend) on the wedding day can help take the pressure off you!

The Final Countdown – One Month Before the Wedding

  • Obtain your marriage license.
  • Break in your wedding shoes.
  • Confirm the wedding day schedule with all vendors.
  • Write your vows.
  • Plan a spa day or self-care day.

💡 Tip: Make an emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, blotting paper, and mints for any last-minute fixes.

Wedding transportation

Your Wedding Week – The Final Touches

  • Pack an overnight bag for the wedding night.
  • Assign someone to handle last-minute details.
  • Attend your rehearsal dinner.
  • Get plenty of rest the night before.

💡 Tip: Avoid last-minute beauty treatments (like facials or waxing) to prevent unexpected skin reactions.

Your Wedding Day – Enjoy Every Moment!

  • Eat a good breakfast.
  • Give your phone to someone else for the day.
  • Trust your planning and enjoy the day.
  • Take in every special moment.

💡 Tip: Ask your photographer for a ‘golden hour’ session for stunning wedding photos.

Post-Wedding Tasks – Wrapping It Up

  • Send thank-you cards.
  • Preserve your dress & bouquet.
  • Review & order wedding photos and videos.
  • Change your name (if applicable).

💡 Tip: Have a post-wedding brunch or casual get-together with guests before they leave town.

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