Month by Month Wedding Planning Guide

Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning can be overwhelming, but breaking it down month by month can make the process much more manageable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay on track and organized as you prepare for your big day.

January:

• Set your budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding and prioritize your expenses accordingly. Research various aspects of your wedding, such as venue, catering, and entertainment, to get an idea of their respective costs.
• Create a guest list: Begin compiling a list of family and friends you want to invite to your wedding. Consider factors such as venue capacity and budget constraints when finalizing your guest list.
• Research venues: Start looking into potential ceremony and reception locations, keeping your budget and guest count in mind. Schedule tours of venues you’re interested in to see them in person and ask any questions you may have.

February:

• Choose your wedding party: Select your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any other important members of your wedding party. Consider their availability, responsibilities, and relationship to you and your partner when making your selections.
• Hire vendors: Book your photographer, caterer, florist, and other vendors as soon as possible to secure your desired dates. Review contracts carefully and communicate your vision and expectations clearly with each vendor.
• Order your wedding dress: Start shopping for your dream dress and place your order to allow for any necessary alterations. Consider factors such as style, fabric, and budget when choosing your gown.

March:

• Send save-the-dates: Notify your guests of your wedding date and location so they can mark their calendars. Choose a design and format for your save-the-dates that reflects the theme and tone of your wedding.
• Plan your honeymoon: Start researching destinations and booking your flights and accommodations for your post-wedding getaway. Consider factors such as travel restrictions, weather, and activities when choosing your honeymoon destination.
• Decide on decor: Begin brainstorming and collecting ideas for your wedding decor, including flowers, centerpieces, and color schemes. Create a mood board or Pinterest board to gather inspiration and share your vision with your florist and decorator.

April:

• Finalize guest list: Confirm the number of guests attending and start collecting RSVPs. Keep track of RSVPs and dietary restrictions to ensure a smooth seating arrangement and meal planning process.
• Plan ceremony details: Choose readings, select music, and decide on any special rituals or traditions you want to incorporate into your ceremony. Meet with your officiant to discuss the ceremony script and any personal touches you’d like to include.
• Order wedding invitations: Design and order your wedding invitations, including RSVP cards and any additional inserts. Consider including important information such as dress code, accommodations, and transportation options for your guests’ convenience.

May:

• Arrange transportation: Book transportation for you and your wedding party to and from the ceremony and reception venues. Consider options such as limousines, vintage cars, or shuttle buses depending on your budget and style.
• Attend dress fittings: Schedule fittings for your wedding dress and any bridesmaid dresses to ensure a perfect fit. Bring along your accessories and undergarments to complete the look and make any necessary adjustments.
• Plan rehearsal dinner: Coordinate with your wedding party and family members to plan a rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. Choose a venue and menu that complements the overall wedding experience and allows for relaxed socializing and celebration.

June:

• Obtain marriage license: Apply for your marriage license according to your local laws and regulations. Check the validity period and processing time for marriage licenses in your jurisdiction to avoid any last-minute complications.
• Confirm final details: Touch base with all vendors to confirm timelines, delivery details, and any last-minute changes. Create a comprehensive wedding day timeline and distribute copies to your vendors and wedding party to ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Pack for the honeymoon: Start packing for your honeymoon, making sure to include all necessary travel documents and essentials. Create a packing list and double-check flight details and accommodations to minimize stress and maximize relaxation during your honeymoon.

July:

• Follow up with guests: Reach out to any guests who haven’t RSVP’d to confirm their attendance. Finalize seating arrangements and create table assignments for the reception based on RSVPs and guest preferences.
• Create a wedding day timeline: Coordinate with your vendors and wedding party to create a detailed timeline for the day of the wedding. Include important milestones such as hair and makeup appointments, ceremony start time, and reception entrance to ensure a smooth and seamless event.
• Delegate tasks: Assign specific tasks to trusted friends and family members to help alleviate stress on the day of the wedding. Designate a point person or wedding coordinator to handle any last-minute issues or questions that may arise.