Wedding Planning 101: A Timeline To Keep You On Track
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with a solid timeline in place, you can break it down into manageable steps.
Whether you're planning a grand affair or a more intimate celebration, this guide will help you organise what to book and when.
Let's walk through everything you need to think about, from 18 months out all the way to the day before your big day.
18 Months Before
Start with the Big Picture
At this stage, it’s all about the big decisions that will shape your wedding day. It’s time to dream big and start locking in those non-negotiables.
Set a budget: Before you start booking anything, sit down and get a rough idea of what you’re happy to spend on each part of your day.
Choose your wedding date: Flexibility is key here! Having a couple of dates in mind will help when booking your venue and suppliers.
Book your venue: Popular venues can get booked up quickly, especially in peak wedding season (May to September), so lock this in early.
Create your guest list: Start drafting your guest list, as it will impact your choice of venue and other details. If you are looking for a detailed guide on how to create your wedding guest list then I highly recommend this post here.
12 Months Before
Time to Get Serious with Suppliers
A year out might seem like a long way away, but trust me, things book up fast! You’ll want to start securing your key suppliers around this time.
Book your photographer and/or videographer: These are the people who will capture the day, so do your research, look at portfolios, and make sure their style matches your vision. If you are getting married in Lancashire, I can not recommend Stephen Whitehead highly enough! He creates amazing films that I love to watch on his Instagram.
Find your florist: Florists get snapped up quickly, especially if you have a specific vision in mind. Now’s the time to chat with a few and book the one who can make your floral dreams a reality.
Choose a caterer: If your venue doesn’t provide catering, or if you’re planning a more bespoke menu, start looking for a caterer now. Think about whether you want a formal sit-down meal, a buffet, or food trucks.
Research and book entertainment: Whether it’s a band, DJ, or string quartet, entertainment is key to setting the mood for your wedding.
9 Months Before
It's all in the Details
Now that your venue and suppliers are in place, it’s time to start thinking about the finer details of your wedding day.
Find your wedding dress/attire: Whether you’re going for a traditional gown or something a bit different, now is the time to start trying on dresses. Don’t forget about your accessories, shoes, and bridal lingerie.
Book dress fittings: Once you’ve found “the one,” make sure to schedule fittings well in advance, as tailoring can take a few months.
Book hair and makeup artists: Find someone who will make you feel your best and book your trials early.
Plan and book transport: If you need transport for the day, such as a car for the bride or a bus for guests, now is the time to get it sorted.
6 Months Before
Finalising the Big Elements
By this point, the main elements of your wedding should be coming together nicely. Now it’s time to add the finishing touches.
Send out your wedding invitations: Once your guest list is finalised and you have all the key information, send out your invites.
Order your wedding cake: If you’re having a traditional wedding cake or something more unique, work with your chosen baker to lock in your design and flavour.
Book flower preservation: If you’re looking to preserve your wedding bouquet (and trust me, you’ll want to!), book your flower preservation service now to ensure availability. If you’re looking for help finding a bouquet preservation artist then check this out.
Start planning the ceremony: Chat with your officiant about the structure of your ceremony, including readings, music, and any personal touches.
3 Months Before
The Fun Finishing Touches
It’s starting to feel real now! At this stage, you’re mostly fine-tuning and finalising the smaller details of your day.
Confirm your final guest count: Check in with guests who haven’t RSVP’d and finalise your headcount.
Plan your seating chart: Once your RSVPs are in, start thinking about who will sit where during the reception.
Organise wedding favours: If you’re giving favours to your guests, now is the time to organise them, whether it’s something personalised or a thoughtful keepsake. Looking for wedding favour ideas? Here’s a great list of unique options.
1 Month Before
The Final Countdown
It’s the home stretch, and your wedding day is just around the corner. Here’s what to focus on in the last month.
Final dress fitting: Make sure everything fits perfectly. Want to know what to expect at your final wedding dress fittings here is a great article.
Confirm all bookings: Touch base with all your suppliers and confirm timings and final details.
Create a wedding day timeline: Make a schedule for the big day, from getting ready in the morning to the last dance at night. Share this with your bridal party and suppliers.
2 Weeks Before
Wrapping Up Loose Ends
The final bits of your planning will be falling into place now.
Check on your marriage licence: Make sure you’ve got all the legal paperwork ready for the big day.
Write your vows: If you’re writing your own vows, now’s the time to finalise them. Looking for inspiration? Try here for some lovely ideas.
Break in your wedding shoes: You don’t want blisters on your big day! Wear your shoes around the house to make sure they’re comfortable.
1 Week Before
Nearly There!
It’s almost time to say "I do"! With one week to go, you should be feeling prepared and excited.
Pack your wedding day emergency kit: Include essentials like safety pins, painkillers, a mini sewing kit, and some snacks.
Prepare payments: Make sure you’ve arranged any final payments and tips for your suppliers.
Day Before
Last-Minute Prep
The day before your wedding is all about getting yourself ready and feeling your best.
Relax and enjoy the moment: Spend time with your bridal party or family and enjoy the excitement. Here is a list of 26 things to do the night before your wedding.
Get plenty of rest: Make sure you have a good night’s sleep so you’re feeling refreshed for the big day.
Planning a wedding can feel like a lot, but by breaking it down into smaller steps, you can stay organised and enjoy the process.
Remember to take a moment to breathe and enjoy the lead-up to one of the most special days of your life.
And don’t forget, if you want to preserve your wedding bouquet as a beautiful keepsake, I’m here to help!