Determine the type of wedding you want (size, formality, style, color
scheme).
Select and order the bridesmaids' dresses.
Establish a preliminary budget.
Select and secure a photographer.
Select a caterer if not already provided by the reception.
Select and secure your reception location.
Select and secure your ceremony location.
Begin choosing your wedding cake baker, videographer, reception
entertainment, and florist. Sign necessary contracts.
Pick out engagement ring with fiancé.
Six to Nine Months Before
Start compiling the guest list (inform your families to do the same).
Select the attendants for your wedding party.
Shop for the wedding dress, headpiece, veil, etc.
Start planning for honeymoon.
Register with a gift bridal registry in your favorite store.
Four to Six Months Before
Make appointments for a physical exam with your doctor/dentist.
Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state.
Shop for wedding rings.
Select and order the invitations and stationery.
Make sure all the men's attire has been ordered.
Decide where to live after the wedding.
Complete the guest lists.
Begin shopping for trousseau.
Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper.
Inform mothers to select their dresses.
Select and order the men's attire.
Finalize honeymoon details and make the necessary reservations.
Finalize the Florist details, Photographer, Videographer, DJ,
Musicians, etc.
Two to Four Months Before
Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer.
Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.
Select your wedding rings.
Buy a wedding guest book.
Set the dates and times with the Officiant, Photographer,
Videographer, DJ and Musicians for the rehearsal.
Plan the bridesmaids' luncheon and any other parties.
Determine your resources for designing and printing the program for
the ceremony.
Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place.
Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.
Six to Eight Weeks Before
Mail invitations and announcements.
Prepare a portrait for the newspaper. Check your local newspaper for
details and timing.
Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait.
Select gifts for all your attendants.
Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.
Hire the limousine or other forms of transportation for the wedding.
Four to Six Weeks Before
Decide what your menu is going to be for the reception. Estimate the
expected number of guests.
Buy a gift for the groom.
Schedule a final fitting for your gown so it can be ready for your
formal bridal portrait.
Purchase a going away outfit.
Pick up your wedding rings.
Purchase (borrow) all wedding accessories such as the ring pillow,
goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.
Confirm florist details and delivery times.
Plan the seating for the reception as well as other details for the
ceremony and reception. Start writing placement cards.
Make sure all bridesmaids' attire has been fitted.
Buy a gift for the bride.
Two Weeks Before
Make arrangements to have your wedding gifts moved to your new home.
Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address
changes, etc.
Prepare the wedding announcement for the newspaper.
Reconfirm your guests' accommodations
Make sure all clothing and accessories for you and the bridal party
are ready.
Get your marriage license and any blood tests which are needed.
Confirm all the formalities, music and games you want and don't
want with your entertainment.
One Week Before
Review any seating details with the ushers.
Make sure all wedding attire fits.
Finalize the seating arrangements.
Reconfirm your honeymoon reservations. Ensure you have any necessary
plane tickets.
Start packing for your honeymoon.
Call any guests who have not responded yet.
Finish all the place cards for the reception.
Review all the final details with your photographer, videographer,
etc.
Give a final head count to the caterer.
Confirm the availability of the musicians and vocalists.
Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day
Wrap and present the wedding party gifts.
Finalize your rehearsal dinner arrangements or other plans.
One Day Before
Get a manicure or massage to relax yourself.
Stay with your family the night before and sleep early.
Review and rehearse all the details of your participants.
The Big Day
Make sure the best man and maid of honor sign the wedding certificate.
Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed.
Be sure to eat properly and drink water.
Rest and relax with a good bath.
Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments.
Don't stress or worry if something doesn't go exactly as planned or
timed. The more details you have the greater the chance things will
run late or go wrong.
Take a deep breath, smile and have fun! THIS IS YOUR DAY!
Enjoy your wonderful wedding and cherish each and every
moment!!!
