12-18 MONTHS PRIOR TO WEDDING:
Which type of wedding – formal, informal, indoors, outdoors etc.
Gather ideas from weddings you have attended, bridal magazines, bridal shows
Determine your budget – Remember to include even the smallest detail. It all adds up quickly.
Choose your location and date for both wedding and reception. Will you be married in a different location than the reception? Secure at this point. Be prepared to pay a deposit fee.
Do you want/need a wedding planner? If so, secure their services.
Who will officiate? Do you have a religious affiliation? Do you want to have a friend or relative be the officiant?
Choose and request Maid of Honor.
Choose and request your attendants if any.
Determine colors and theme for the wedding and reception.
Create tentative invitation list.
Register with desired bridal registries.
Select caterer and create menu
Plan rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Where will it be held? Will the caterer be hired for this as well?
Select florist or floral supplier.
Select your entertainment; DJ, band? Secure date.
Select photographer and/or videographer. Secure date.
Select wedding dress. Allow time for alterations and fittings.
Select wedding shoes and accessories.
Select Bridesmaids dresses. Have Bridesmaids attend a fitting. Purchase dresses. If they are selecting their own within the color range and style of your choosing give them a final date for approval.
Groom: Determine his attire. Consult with formal wear specialist if necessary.
Groom: Select Bestman and Groomsmen if any.
Groom: Arrange for attire of Bestman and Groomsmen.
Bride and Groom: Choose location for honeymoon if you so choose. Secure location and date.
Apply for passports and any other necessary proof of citizenship if necessary.
FOUR TO SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO WEDDING:
Select and order invitations, announcements and thank you notes.
Choose Wedding rings
Order napkins and personalized favors
Plan accommodations for out-of-town guests
Select location for rehearsal dinner. Decide upon timeline.
Arrange for caterer for rehearsal dinner
Select baker and decide upon wedding cake. Place order.
Secure airfare and hotel reservations for the honeymoon
Fine tune the guest list
Shop for and order wedding favors
Determine time line for the wedding reception
Arrange for bridal portrait with photographer
Arrange for bride and groom transportation on wedding day
Secure chairs, tents, tablecloths etc.. through an event rental company
Place order for catering and flowers.
TWO TO FOUR MONTHS AHEAD OF THE WEDDING:
Address wedding invitations and/or announcements
If so desired, draw up seating plan for invited guests
Select music for wedding
Select and purchase gifts for wedding party
Set date to secure marriage license – double check with county regarding time frame
Mail wedding announcements to any guests living abroad
ONE TO TWO MONTHS PRIOR TO WEDDING:
Buy wedding gift for your future spouse
Make appointments with hairstylist, manicurist, etc…
Have final dress fitting; bride and bridesmaids
Groom verify all groomsmen have been fitted for their attire
Mail all invitations
Schedule appt. with photographer to have formal wedding portrait taken if you choose
Pick up wedding rings
Confirm with all hired professionals regarding correct dates, times and menu with caterer
Discuss with officient the specifics of the wedding ceremony
Set a date and time for rehearsal dinner
Make final alterations for the wedding gown
Make necessary hotel reservations for out of town guests
TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING:
Review seating plan for reception
Confirm honeymoon arrangements
Meet with DJ or band to select music during the reception
Make reservations for bridesmaids luncheon if desired
Send reminders to the rehearsal dinner attendees about location and time
Fill out and submit application for marriage license if not already done
ONE WEEK PRIOR TO WEDDING:
Final consultation with caterer and florist
See to payment for all hired professionals
Confirm honeymoon arrangements
Pack for honeymoon
Final guest count to necessary hired service professionals
THE DAY PRIOR TO THE WEDDING:
Manicure and pedicure
Have a great wedding