Posts Tagged ‘Tips to Planning a Wedding’

The Wedding Planning Checklist & Guide

a simple guide to get the “planning ball” rolling for every bride-to-beAs every bride can imagine, planning a wedding is both exciting, and stressful.

That’s why, a yearlong bridal calendar complete with tips and a check-off list is the perfect tool to keep you on track while planning.

A year out from your wedding:

-Buy yourself a wedding planning book that coincides with this checklist to take you through every step of planning.

-Discuss budget with both sets of parents to establish what you can actually spend while planning.

-Establish your wedding date—book your wedding ceremony and reception location.

-Select your bridal attendants, all bridesmaids and groomsmen.

-If you decide to use a wedding coordinator, hire your professional at this time.

-Research and begin booking your florist, photographer, videographer, and music.

9-months from saying “I do”

-Shop, shop, shop for your wedding gown and accessories. Many gowns take 6 months or more from order date to last fitting.

-Discuss ceremony with your preferred clergy member or Justice of Peace. It is very important that you and your fiancé are on the same page as far as religious influence and length of ceremony.

-Start to create your guest list.

-Research honeymoon destinations. You may want to consult a Travel Agent to secure best travel deals.

6-months to wedding

-Place order for “Save the Date” cards and your wedding invitations.

-Secure a portrait photographer if you are having engagement pictures taken.

-Will you be renting a limo? Hiring a calligrapher? Think about any other wedding details you would like and make those hires.

-Again, shop, shop, shop. Create your wedding registry with household gifts to receive.

**This can all be done online if you choose.

3-months to date

-Finalize the number of people you will invite to your wedding.

-Select and order wedding rings. Don’t forget to order engraving, too.

-Shop for your wedding trousseau—treat yourself to some new honeymoon lingerie and clothing.

-Practice hairdo with hairdresser of your choice.

-Block any number of hotel rooms for out of town guests.

6-8 weeks before—now it is crunch time. Exciting.

-Get those wedding invitations in the mail.

-Purchase the perfect attendant and groomsmen gifts of appreciation.

-It is imperative that you have your final gown fitting with veil. There is still time to alter your dress if needed. In addition, purchase any ancillary accessories: jewelry, shoes, and hairpieces, etc. if you haven’t already done so.

-Buy your groom-to-be a gift for the wedding.

-Take your engagement photo.

-Check state laws on blood tests and marriage license.

-Pick up those wedding rings.

-Send announcements to each hometown newspaper.

-It could very well be a surprise, but if not, plan your Bachelor and Bachelorette parties.

-Write, write, write those Thank You’s as gifts begin to pour in.

2-weeks and counting

-Pick up Certificate of Marriage.

-Confirm all honeymoon travel arrangements.

-Submit any personal requests for photographer, DJ or band.

1-week away from the “Big Day”

-Go over any last minute details with hired wedding professionals.

-Hand in your final guest count to reception site or caterer.

-Remind everyone involved about the rehearsal dinner and ceremony times.

-Look forward to your honeymoon—and pack for your first trip together as a married couple.

See Also:
Wedding Gown Shopping Guide