Planning a wedding is one of life’s most thrilling experiences, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many details to manage. To help you stay organised and make the process as enjoyable as possible, we’ve put together a detailed month-by-month timeline. This guide will keep you on track from start to finish, ensuring that every aspect of your big day is covered…
12+ Months Before the Wedding: The Foundation
Set Your Budget - Determining your budget is the crucial first step in wedding planning. Start by discussing with your partner and any family members who may be contributing. This will give you a clear understanding of what you can afford. Break down your budget into categories like venue, catering, attire, and décor, and allocate funds accordingly. Keep in mind that unexpected costs often arise, so build in a buffer to avoid last-minute stress.
Start the Guest List - Begin drafting a preliminary guest list, considering the size and style of wedding you envision. Your guest count will significantly impact your venue choice and budget. Start with your immediate families, close friends, and then move on to extended family and acquaintances. Remember, this list doesn’t have to be final right away, but having a rough estimate will help with all the other planning decisions.
Choose a Venue - Start searching for your dream venue as early as possible, as popular locations can book up more than a year in advance. Consider factors such as the number of guests, the overall aesthetic, and the convenience for your guests. Visit potential venues, ask plenty of questions, and compare packages. Some venues might include additional services like catering or décor, which could help streamline your planning process.
Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional) - If the idea of coordinating all the details seems daunting, hiring a wedding planner could be a wise investment. A planner can help you stay within budget, recommend trusted vendors, and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. If a full-service planner is beyond your budget, consider hiring someone for day-of coordination to manage the final details and ease the pressure off you and your partner.
9-11 Months Before the Wedding: Get into the Details
Book Key Vendors - With your venue secured, the next step is booking your key vendors, including your photographer, caterer, and entertainment. Research and meet with multiple vendors to compare styles, pricing, and packages. Ask to see portfolios or attend tastings, if available, to ensure their offerings align with your vision. Once you’ve made your choice, secure your bookings with a deposit to lock in your preferred date.
Select Your Wedding Party - Choose who you want by your side on your big day, from bridesmaids and groomsmen to flower girls and ring bearers. Think about who has been supportive throughout your relationship and who will help make the planning process easier. Once you’ve decided, ask them in a meaningful way, perhaps with a small gift or a personalised note, to make them feel special and appreciated.
Shop for Attire - Begin the search for your wedding attire, whether it’s a dress, suit, or something more unique. Visit multiple boutiques, try on different styles, and don’t rush the decision. Remember to consider not just the look but also comfort, as you’ll be wearing it for several hours. If you’re customising your outfit, factor in extra time for fittings and alterations to ensure a perfect fit on the big day.
Send Save-the-Dates - Once you’ve finalised your guest list, it’s time to send out save-the-date cards. This gives your guests ample time to plan, especially if they need to travel or make other arrangements. Choose a design that reflects the theme of your wedding, and be sure to include all essential details, like the date, location, and any accommodation information. Sending these out early also helps avoid conflicts with other events your guests may have.
6-8 Months Before the Wedding: Finalise the Essentials
Order Invitations - With your wedding date and venue secured, it’s time to design and order your invitations. Consider whether you want to include inserts with additional details, like directions, accommodations, and a schedule of events. Make sure your invitations match the overall style of your wedding and allow for ample time to address and send them out. Include an RSVP deadline to help you stay organised and on top of your guest count.
Register for Gifts - Setting up a wedding registry is a fun and practical way to guide your guests in choosing gifts you’ll truly appreciate. Think about items you need for your home or experiences you’d love to have together. Offering a range of options at different price points ensures there’s something for everyone. Many couples also include charitable donations as part of their registry, allowing guests to contribute to causes they care about.
Plan the Honeymoon - Start planning your honeymoon, considering destinations that appeal to both of you. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, a European adventure, or a quiet retreat, now is the time to book flights, accommodation, and any necessary visas. Don’t forget to check the weather, seasonal events, and travel advisories for your destination to ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Choose Bridesmaids’ Dresses and Groomsmen’s Attire - Coordinate the look of your wedding party by selecting their outfits. Whether you’re going for a matching look or a more eclectic mix, consider colours, fabrics, and styles that complement your overall theme. Schedule fittings and make sure everyone has enough time to order and alter their outfits. If you’re covering the cost, budget accordingly; if not, be mindful of your party’s budgets when choosing attire.
4-5 Months Before the Wedding: Details and Décor
Arrange Transport - Book transportation for yourself, your wedding party, and your guests if needed. Consider options like vintage cars, limousines, or even a horse-drawn carriage to make your arrival extra special. Don’t forget to arrange transport between the ceremony and reception if they’re at different locations, and plan for how you and your new spouse will leave the venue at the end of the night.
Book Hair and Makeup Artists - Schedule trials and book your hair and makeup professionals. During your trial, bring along inspiration photos and communicate your vision clearly. Consider how your hair and makeup will hold up throughout the day, especially during outdoor ceremonies or in humid climates. Once you’re satisfied with the look, confirm the booking and set a schedule for the wedding day to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Order the Cake - Meet with your baker to design the perfect cake for your celebration. Discuss flavours, fillings, and design elements that will tie into your wedding theme. Don’t forget to consider dietary restrictions for your guests and whether you’ll want additional desserts or a dessert table. Once you’ve finalised the design, confirm the delivery details to ensure the cake arrives in perfect condition on your big day.
Choose Décor - Finalise decisions on flowers, centrepieces, and any other décor elements. Whether you’re opting for a minimalist look or an extravagant setup, ensure that your décor reflects your personal style and the mood you want to create. Meet with your florist and any other vendors to go over your vision, and make sure to account for details like lighting, table settings, and signage that will enhance the overall atmosphere.
2-3 Months Before the Wedding: Countdown Begins
Send Invitations - With your wedding day fast approaching, it’s time to send out your invitations. Be sure to include all the necessary details, like the time, location, dress code, and RSVP information. Track RSVPs as they come in and follow up with any guests who haven’t responded by the deadline. Keeping organised during this stage will make it easier to finalise your seating chart and caterer’s headcount.
Finalise the Menu - Work closely with your caterer to finalise the menu, taking into account any dietary restrictions or special requests from your guests. Consider offering a variety of options to cater to different tastes, and plan for a menu that reflects your personality as a couple. Don’t forget to arrange for a tasting if you haven’t already, and confirm details like portion sizes, serving style, and the timing of each course.
Confirm with Vendors - Double-check all details with your vendors, from the florist to the photographer, to ensure everyone is on the same page. This is your opportunity to go over the timeline, confirm any last-minute changes, and provide vendors with contact information for the day-of. By making sure everyone knows their role and responsibilities, you’ll avoid any potential hiccups on the big day.
Write Your Vows - If you’re writing your own vows, now’s the time to start crafting them. Take time to reflect on your relationship, what your partner means to you, and the promises you want to make. Don’t feel pressured to be overly poetic – what matters most is that your words are heartfelt and true to your relationship. Practice reading your vows out loud to get comfortable with the flow and ensure they’re the right length.
1 Month Before the Wedding: Almost There!
Finalise the Seating Chart - With all the RSVPs in, it’s time to start arranging your seating chart. Consider relationships, comfort, and conversation flow when placing guests together. Use online tools or a simple chart to visualise where everyone will sit. Don’t forget to create place cards or a seating chart display for the reception to guide your guests to their seats easily.
Get Your Notice of Intended Marriage - that must be completed and lodged with a celebrant or Registry Office.
Final Dress Fitting - Ensure your dress fits perfectly with a final fitting. Try on your entire outfit, including shoes and accessories, to make sure everything is comfortable and looks great together. If any adjustments are needed, schedule them immediately so you can pick up your dress well before the wedding. This is also a good time to practice walking, sitting, and dancing in your dress to get comfortable with the fit.
Plan the Rehearsal - Finalise plans for the rehearsal dinner and any other pre-wedding events. Coordinate with your venue, officiant, and wedding party to schedule a run-through of the ceremony. This is a great opportunity to iron out any last-minute details and ensure everyone knows their roles. After the rehearsal, enjoy a relaxed dinner with your closest friends and family as a way to thank them for their support.
2 Weeks Before the Wedding: Final Touches
Confirm the Timeline - Go over the wedding day schedule with your planner, vendors, and wedding party. Make sure everyone is clear on their responsibilities and the timing of events. Having a well-organised timeline will help ensure that the day runs smoothly and allows you to focus on enjoying your celebration without worrying about logistics.
Pack for the Honeymoon - Start packing for your honeymoon, including all the essentials like travel documents, appropriate clothing, and any necessary toiletries. Create a packing list to ensure you don’t forget anything important, and consider the climate and activities you’ll be enjoying on your trip. Packing early gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on the wedding in the final days leading up to it.
Break in Your Shoes - Wear your wedding shoes around the house to avoid discomfort on the day. Whether you’ve opted for high heels, flats, or something in between, breaking them in ahead of time will help prevent blisters and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day. Consider bringing a backup pair of shoes or insoles just in case.
Delegate Tasks - Assign tasks to your wedding party or trusted friends to help ease your load. Whether it’s overseeing the setup, managing the guestbook, or ensuring vendors are paid, having others handle these responsibilities allows you to focus on enjoying your day. Be clear in your instructions and trust them to handle the details.
The Day Before the Wedding: Relax and Enjoy
Rehearse - Have a quick run-through of the ceremony with everyone involved. This final rehearsal ensures that everyone knows where they need to be and what they need to do. Keep it light and fun – this is a time to enjoy the anticipation and excitement with your closest loved ones.
Pamper Yourself - Schedule some time to relax, whether it’s a spa day, a yoga session, or a quiet evening in. Pampering yourself the day before your wedding will help you unwind and prepare mentally for the big day. Consider a massage to relieve any tension or simply take some quiet time to reflect on the journey you’re about to embark on.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep - You’ll want to be well-rested for your big day, so make sure you get to bed early. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, and create a calm environment to help you drift off. A good night’s sleep will ensure you wake up feeling refreshed, energised, and ready to enjoy every moment of your wedding day.
The Wedding Day: Celebrate!
Stay Calm - Enjoy every moment and try not to stress about the details. Remember, you’ve done all the planning, and now it’s time to trust that everything will come together beautifully. Surround yourself with supportive people who will help keep you calm and focused on what really matters – celebrating your love.
Get Ready - Allow plenty of time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed. This is your moment to relax and enjoy the process of transforming into a bride or groom. Surround yourself with your wedding party and loved ones, play some music, and soak in the excitement of the day.
Exchange Vows - This is the moment you’ve been waiting for – savour it! As you stand in front of your loved ones and exchange vows with your partner, take a deep breath and focus on the love you share. This is your time to make promises to each other that will last a lifetime.
Celebrate - After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate with your loved ones. Dance, laugh, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Remember, this is your day – don’t be afraid to let loose and enjoy every second of the celebration.
Post-Wedding: Wrapping Things Up
Send Thank-You Notes - Show your appreciation by sending thank-you notes to guests and vendors. Take the time to write personalised messages, expressing your gratitude for their presence and contributions to your special day. Sending these notes promptly is a small but meaningful way to close the chapter on your wedding celebrations.
Preserve Your Dress - If you’re planning on keeping your dress, have it professionally cleaned and preserved. This will protect it from stains and deterioration, ensuring it remains in pristine condition for years to come. Whether you plan to pass it down or keep it as a memento, preserving your dress is a great way to cherish the memories of your wedding day.
Enjoy Your Honeymoon - Finally, relax and enjoy your honeymoon. You’ve earned it! Take this time to unwind, reflect on your wedding day, and start your new life together. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring a new city, or simply spending time together, your honeymoon is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of your marriage.
This timeline is designed to guide you through every step of the wedding planning process, so you’re organised and ready for your big day. With a bit of planning and a lot of excitement, you’re on your way to a beautiful and stress-free wedding!
If you need help with planning, ideas and your wedding location, contact Hyatt to begin your journey toward happily ever after.