Want to give yourself enough time to plan a successful and stress free wedding? Here is a month by month breakdown to help you get you started planning your big day.

12-16 months before the wedding

  • Choose your date
  • Start wedding binder / file
  • Discuss and choose style + formality of wedding
  • Decide on budget
  • Hire wedding planner
  • Select ceremony location
  • Select reception site
  • Start shopping for gown

8-10 months before the wedding

  • Select bridal party
  • Secure wedding officiant
  • Hire caterer
  • Hire photographer and videographer
  • Hire band or DJ
  • Decide on bridesmaids dresses
  • Start compiling names and addresses for guest list
  • Sign up for gift registry
  • Engagement party

6-7 months before the wedding

  • Finalize guest list
  • Shop for wedding stationary
  • Arrange accommodations
  • Select wedding cake / desserts
  • Begin prep for honeymoon

5 months before the wedding

  • Book florist
  • Shop for wedding bands
  • Take Engagements
  • Order + send out save the dates

3 months before the wedding

  • Send out invitations
  • Select tuxedos
  • Discuss final menu with caterer
  • Hire car or limo service
  • Shop for wedding favours + bridal party gifts

2 months before the wedding

  • Choose wedding music
  • Book location for rehearsal dinner
  • Confirm tux rentals
  • Schedule alterations
  • Confirm order with florist

1 month before the wedding

  • Design wedding program
  • Apply for marriage license
  • Have final gown fitting
  • Choose all accessories
  • Do a run through with hair & makeup
  • Take bridal portraits

2 weeks before the wedding

  • Call any non RSVP guests
  • Give caterer final guest count
  • Pick up marriage license
  • Give DJ or band list of songs
  • Complete floor and seating plan
  • Confirm arrival time for all vendors

1 week before the wedding

  • Organize details box
  • Organize wedding attire
  • Confirm honeymoon reservations
  • Pack for honeymoon + gather all documents for travel


1 day before the wedding

  • Pack wedding day emergency kit
  • Give rings to best man
  • Try to get a good nights sleep

Getting ahead of planning and breaking things up in small chunks will help relieve some of the stress of wedding planning. Make sure to remember this day is YOUR day - so if there's anything traditional you'd like to skip - do so! I'm here to support you throughout your entire journey, so feel free to reach out with any questions. Anything big or small - from which florists to work with, how to prep your details box, or even just to share a pic of your dress cause you're excited!! I'd love to help in anyway I can and I'll be your hype woman throughout the next year or so as you plan.