6 - 12 months before the big day.
Decide on a date.
Make an appointment with your officiant.
Determine a budget.
Compose a guest list.
Set time, location of ceremony, rehearsal and reception venues.
Choose photographer / videographer.
Shop for wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses.
Get estimates for flowers and music; book services if possible.
Register with gift registry.
Select attendants.
Pick a honeymoon destination (renew passports and vaccinations).
Begin caterer search; attend tastings.
5 months before the big day.
Finalize guest lists.
Order invitations.
Order personal stationery & thank you notes.
Plan reception.
Choose florist.
Men choose attire.
Make honeymoon reservations.
Finalize caterer choice.
Confirm delivery of bridal gown.
Make appointment for bridal portrait.
Order wedding cake.
Arrange transportation for the bridal party to and from ceremony/reception.
Go over details of reception with caterer/venue manager.
If you are renting any equipment, reserve now (arch, floral pillars etc.).
2 months before the big day.
Inform officiant of all the details of your ceremony.
Keep a gift diary - send thank you notes as gifts arrive.
Fine tune guest list.
Plan rehearsal dinner.
Select attendants' gifts, grooms gift.
Check all services.
Final gown fitting.
Bridal portrait setting.
1 month before the big day.
Choose wedding bands.
Mail invitations.
Make room reservations for out of town guests.
Check wedding party apparel.
Confirm music arrangements and check selections.
Make reservations for bridesmaids' luncheon.
Discuss rehearsal dinner with hosts.
Attend showers.
Marriage license. Check your state for requirements.
2 weeks before the big day.
Plan your wedding day hair style (bring headpiece & veil).
Schedule hair appointment for day of wedding.
Final check on bridal party clothing.
Notify newspapers.
Check with caterer / reception venue with last minute changes.
1 week before the big day.
Remind rehearsal dinner guests of time / location.
Start honeymoon packing/shopping.
Bridesmaids' luncheon.
Schedule rehearsal for 1-2 days prior to wedding.
Remind wedding party of exact time & place.
Go over final details of ceremony & reception with all parties involved.
Assign small jobs to family/friends. (pick up guest book, cameras etc.)
1 day before the big day.
RELAX !
Have manicure & pedicure done.
Attend wedding rehearsal & dinner.
Give ushers guest list.
Wedding Day
Eat!
Hair & make-up.
Check wedding dress (pressing/steaming).
Have family member check ceremony/reception for left behind items.
Change of clothes. (if leaving for honeymoon).
Breathe! Enjoy your day!
Helpful hint... make an emergency kit:
Include make-up, extra panty hose, bobby pins, safety pins, clear nail polish, comb, hair spray, hanky or tissues, needle & thread (white), white chalk, aspirins, saltine crackers, band aid, toothpaste & brush, dental floss, breath mints.
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Wedding Planning Guide
