But if you’re feeling a bit lost on where to begin or you just need a friendly nudge forward, this wedding planning checklist is your new best friend.
We won’t sugarcoat it—there’s a lot to cover here, and every wedding is unique. That’s why we’ve broken this guide into bite-size chunks, walking you through each phase of your planning journey based on a roughly 12-month timeline. Of course, you might have a two-year engagement or you might be tying the knot in just a few months—no worries! Simply adapt the schedule to fit your own timeline and keep it fun, flexible, and personal to you.
Finally, if you want an even more detailed, interactive, and customizable checklist, check out the free tools available on websites like Say I do, where you can sync all your tasks to your planning timeline, add personalized to-dos, and remove anything that isn’t relevant. We’re all about making this process work for you, so let’s jump right in!
12 Months Before the Wedding
The one-year mark is your golden opportunity to lay a strong foundation for the rest of your planning. These initial steps will shape everything from the size of your guest list to the vibe of your celebration.
- Determine Your Budget
Figure out how much you can afford to spend. Consider family contributions, personal savings, and any funds you can accumulate in the months to come.
- Start Your Guest List
It doesn’t have to be perfect—just get a rough number. Having an approximate headcount helps you make informed decisions about venues, catering, and more.
- Venue Hunting
Research and shortlist venues that suit your style, whether it’s a grand ballroom or a cozy barn. Schedule in-person tours to get a real feel for each location.
- Pick Your Theme/Style/Vibe
Dive into Pinterest, Instagram, or wedding blogs to define your wedding aesthetic. Are you envisioning boho-chic, modern minimalism, or a romantic fairy tale?
- Set a Date & Book Your Ceremony Details
Once you find “the one” venue, secure your wedding date. At the same time, book your celebrant, church, or wedding license.
- Consider a Wedding Planner
If the details are already feeling overwhelming, a professional planner can be a game-changer.
- Send Digital ‘Save the Dates’
If you’re excited to share the news early, use a wedding website like Say I do to send electronic Save the Dates. This is a stress-free way to ensure everyone marks their calendars.
- Get Wedding Insurance
It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential for peace of mind in case anything unexpected happens.
- Wedding Attire Research
Begin browsing styles for your wedding dress/outfit and book initial boutique or tailor appointments.
- Book Key Vendors
Start with the photographer, caterer, and florist—these folks tend to get snapped up early. Book your must-haves first to avoid disappointment.
9 Months Before the Wedding
As your big day draws closer, it’s time to secure the vendors and elements that add flair and fun—from music to cake tastings.
- Sort Out Accommodation
If you can, block-book rooms for out-of-town guests. Otherwise, compile accommodation info on your wedding website so guests can make their own arrangements.
- Entertainment Bookings
Whether it’s a live band, a DJ, lawn games, or even a magician, lock down your entertainment and keep your guests smiling all day long.
- Find a Cake Designer
Let the tastings begin! Explore different flavors, from classic vanilla to bold red velvet or even something more adventurous.
- Décor Details
Get in touch with décor or rental companies for backdrop hire, furniture, or any special props that tie your theme together.
- Honeymoon Planning
Nine months out is a great time to start researching travel destinations and accommodation for your post-wedding getaway.
6 Months Before the Wedding
You’ve made it halfway! Now comes the fun part where you shape the day’s look, feel, and flavors.
- Attire for the Wedding Party
Pick out suits for the groom and groomsmen, plus dresses or outfits for bridesmaids. Ensure the styles complement your color palette.
- Midway Check-Ins
Schedule a meeting or call with key vendors to confirm details and address any changes in your vision.
- Menu Selection
Finalize your catering choices. Tasting sessions can help you decide which dishes best represent you as a couple.
- Book Wedding Transport
Whether it’s a vintage car, limo, or a quirky party bus, book it early to avoid scrambles closer to the date.
- Organize Wedding Stationery
Order or design your printed invites, programs, and place cards. Alternatively, you can keep it digital through a wedding website like Say I do.
- Gift Registry vs. Wishing Well
Decide how you’d like guests to contribute: a traditional registry, cash fund, or simply well-wishes.
- Hair & Makeup Trials
Experiment with styles that’ll help you look and feel your best on the day.
- Rehearsal Dinner Prep
Book the location and finalize details if you’re planning a pre-wedding get-together.
3 Months Before the Wedding
The excitement is real now. Time to nail down the final details that will truly personalize your day.
- Send Out Invitations
Both physical and digital invites typically go out around this time. Remember to include RSVP details and any guest information.
- Rehearsal Dinner Invites
If you’re hosting a rehearsal dinner, send these invites too.
- Wedding Dress Fittings
Attend fittings to make sure everything fits perfectly. This is also the time to plan any final alterations.
- Wedding Bands & Accessories
Go ring shopping with your fiancé and pick out any accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry) that complete your look.
- Wedding Party & Family Gifts
Show your appreciation with thoughtful gifts for parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen—and for each other!
- Ceremony Readings & Music
Select who will do the readings and confirm the songs for walking down the aisle, signing the register, and your first dance.
- Finishing Touches
Order or DIY the smaller items such as confetti, guest books, photo booth props, or custom candles. Start any DIY projects now (so you’re not stressed later!).
1 Month Before the Wedding
Cue the final countdown! This month is all about pulling loose ends together and making sure you’re ready for the big day.
- Chase Final RSVPs
The caterer and venue will need final head counts, so follow up with any stragglers.
- Last Dress Fitting
Pick up your attire once you’re sure it’s a perfect fit and store it safely.
- Set the Schedule
Work with your planner or coordinator to finalize the order of events—who arrives when, and what time each activity starts.
- Vendor Balances
Pay any final invoices so you’re not dealing with admin on your wedding day.
- Table Plan
Create the seating plan and consider dynamics that’ll help guests enjoy each other’s company.
- Pre-Wedding Beauty Appointments
Schedule your nails, eyebrow shaping, or spray tans close to the big day.
- Collect Outfits
Ensure everything from the groom’s suit to the flower girl dress is safely in hand.
1 Week Before the Wedding
It’s almost here! Use this last checklist to tie up any loose strings and breathe in the excitement of the final stretch.
- Share Contacts & Details
Provide your venue or coordinator with contact info for all vendors so they can handle any day-of questions.
- Place Cards & Signage
Print (or finalize) these items so you’re set for the reception.
- Confirm Schedules with Vendors
Double-check arrival times, setup, and breakdown plans.
- Personal Prep
Finish any last-minute beauty treatments—haircuts, manicures, or touch-ups.
- Pack for the Wedding Night & Honeymoon
Start collecting essentials in one place so you don’t forget anything important in the rush.
- Ceremony Rehearsal
If you can, do a quick run-through of the ceremony with your wedding party to ensure everyone knows their roles.
- Plan the Ring Handoff
Decide who’s keeping the rings safe and how they’ll get them to the right person at the right time.
You’ve probably gathered by now that there’s a LOT involved in planning a wedding—but with an organized checklist at your side, it’s completely manageable. Adapt these steps to your own timeline, enlist help where you need it, and remember: this day is all about celebrating your love with the people who matter most.
Every wedding is different, so if you spot items in this checklist that don’t apply to you, skip them guilt-free. If you have extra steps specific to your theme or family traditions, feel free to add them in. Ultimately, this is your day, so craft it in a way that feels right for you and your partner—and enjoy every minute of the journey!
