With so many elements to think about, a detailed wedding planning checklist will help you keep organized and ensure that nothing goes through the cracks. Viva Wedding Photography has created a list of everything you need to do over the next 12 months, so you can rest assured that everything is covered.
12 Months Before: Initial Planning
Before planning a wedding, it's crucial to determine the financial aspects. Start by setting a budget and identifying who will contribute. Conduct market analysis and use a spreadsheet to track financial dynamics.
Determine the ideal number of invitees by balancing the budget with the venue's capacity. Then, it is time to decide who will pay for the event, with parents sending 30% and the couple receiving 70%. Divide expenses among parents and couples. Narrow down the guest list, negotiate, and make necessary budget changes.
Create a mood board using Pinterest boards and inspiration from home decor and Instagram accounts. This will help you stay organized and make informed decisions during the planning process.
10-12 Months Before: Set a Date and Venue
Finalizing the wedding date is a crucial step in the wedding planning checklist, requiring a balance between individual tastes, practical concerns, and emotional weight.
Booking a wedding venue at least a year before the dream date is generally recommended to ensure smoothness. Hiring a wedding planner is also a good idea, as they provide helpful advice on everything from venue selection to budget management and logistics.
Lastly, arrange an engagement photo shoot to capture memorable moments and memories. Choosing favorite images from the shoot can be used on the wedding website and invitations, giving a personal touch to the event.
9 Months Before: Legal Requirements
Special events insurance is essential for a wedding to protect your investment and cover potential legal issues or accidents. Meeting legal requirements at least 9 months before the wedding, including scheduling a meeting with the registrar, filling out a ceremony form, paying for a marriage certificate, and registering your intention to marry, is crucial for a stress-free wedding planning process.
8 Months Before: Create a Guest List
The guest list is a crucial aspect of wedding planning, and it's essential to collaborate with your partner to create an impressive list.
Sending save-the-date cards to loved ones is crucial, usually 12 to 6 months before the wedding. Keep the announcements concise and inviting, and ensure they include a sneak peek of the wedding date.
Creating a wedding register is a thrilling part of the checklist, as it allows you to shop for gifts from others. Registries can include traditional gifts like china and silverware, cash, gift cards, experiences, and unique items like high-tech espresso machines. Creating a registry early ensures your loved ones don't surprise you and helps them stay on schedule.
Creating a wedding website is also essential, as it provides a central location for all wedding-related information. Allocating time from the beginning stages of wedding planning to this project can make the website a creative and useful resource for your loved ones.
7 Months Before: Select Vendors
To plan a successful wedding, start by booking your photographer and videographer in advance to ensure availability.
Reserve the services of important vendors like the DJ or wedding band as early as possible to ensure a seamless celebration. If your chosen location doesn't offer catering, find another option.
Book your florist ahead of time for elaborate floral arrangements.
Book your wedding cake supplier by the four-month mark and ensure they have your final design by the four-month mark.
Book transportation arrangements for guests and yourself if the ceremony and reception locations differ.
Renting equipment like dance floors, lounge furniture, and specialty chairs can serve as the foundation for your wedding decorations.
Finally, consider hiring a third-party officiant or celebrant for the legal marriage ceremony, whether professional or personal.
6 Months Before: Dress and Attire
Research accessories and bridesmaid dresses online before inviting the bridal party. Consider the theme and accessories by observing them in different outfits. Choose groomsmen's clothes and set fitting days, creating a well-dressed and coordinated lineup.
5 Months Before: Plan Ceremony and Reception
When planning your wedding, consider the rehearsal dinner as a way to show appreciation to your future mother-in-law. Choose a relaxed, family-style meal or an informal event like a clambake or backyard barbecue.
Reserve hotels in advance to accommodate guests from out of town who may travel long distances. Hotels may not guarantee room reservations until up to a year in advance, but they will discuss block possibilities with you.
Finally, plan reception details, including the menu and decorations, to ensure they match your preferences, dietary needs, and schedule.
4 Months Before: Invitations and Stationery
Ordering invitations in advance, ensure they arrive on time, and double-check spelling. Choose a theme that reflects your couple's style and preferences.
Send out invitations about four months before the wedding, ensuring save-the-dates are delivered.
Choose a wedding cake that suits your taste and budget. Find a reliable baker who can work with you on your design and charge a reasonable fee.
3 Months Before: Plan Honeymoon
The groom often arranges a secret vacation for the bride as part of the wedding celebrations. It's essential to have a shared understanding of costs, departure and arrival times, and travel courses. Discuss the purpose of the trip and work together to make it happen.
2 Months Before: Finalize Details
Creating a seating chart, preparing favors and welcome packages, purchasing items like table numbers, toasting flutes, cake toppers, stand, knife, guest book, card box, ring bearer, flower girl accessories, hanger, garter, baskets, pashminas, flip-flops, glasses, and signage. Escort and place cards are important for indicating guest seating and seating locations.
Create a floral mockup with your florist and discuss the final details.
Verify dress fits and start wearing wedding shoes, ensuring everyone is dressed and ready. Undergarments for the wedding gown should be purchased after the initial fitting, as they provide a clear picture of the shapewear or lingerie foundation needed.
Final Week-of Wedding Planning Checklist
- Prepare Your Wedding Vows
- Make Complete Payments To Vendors
- Go Around The Venue One Last Time
Wedding Planning Checklist For A Day Before The Wedding
- Confirm RSVPs, double-check guest list, and provide final headcount.
- Meet with a wedding planner or coordinator for final review.
- Communicate with vendors, finalize beauty appointments, clean the engagement ring, and finish vows.
- Iron wedding attire for a polished appearance.
- Prepare for the honeymoon and have a passport with you. Maintain communication with vendors, finalize wedding vows, and prepare for the honeymoon.
The Evening Before The Wedding Day
- Fill up on nutritious foods.
- Put your necessities in a clutch or other small bag.
- Hydrate your body.
- Rest up and pack your car with all the boxes, baggage, bags, and emergency supplies you'll need for the ceremony and reception.
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