Your Wedding Countdown: A Timeline to Help You Plan Your Big Day
Planning a wedding is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many details to organise. Every wedding is unique, just like every couple, which means there’s no “one-size-fits-all” way to plan. This timeline is here to help guide you through the planning process with suggested milestones. Whether you’re having a grand affair or a more intimate celebration, feel free to tweak it to suit your day!
12+ Months Before: Setting the Foundation
• Celebrate Your Engagement: Announce the big news and take a moment to enjoy it!
• Dream Up Your Vision: Discuss the type of wedding you both want—theme, size, and style.
• Set Your Budget: Decide what you can comfortably spend and start saving.
• Draft Your Guest List: Create an initial list to get an idea of numbers.
• Book Key Vendors: Secure your venue, photographer, and caterer early—these tend to book up quickly!
9-12 Months Before: Building the Framework
• Choose Your Wedding Party: Let your favourite people know they’ll play a special role.
• Finalise the Guest List: Begin narrowing it down and send save-the-dates.
• Book More Vendors: Think florists, hair and makeup artists, and entertainment.
• Start Dress Shopping: Begin looking for your attire. Remember that fittings and alterations take time.
• Plan an Engagement Shoot: A great way to get comfortable in front of the camera.
6-9 Months Before: Bringing the Details Together
• Arrange Guest Accommodation: Reserve rooms for out-of-town guests.
• Plan Your Honeymoon: Book travel and accommodation.
• Finalise Decor: Whether you’re hiring a stylist or DIY-ing, start finalising your ideas.
• Order Invitations: Make sure there’s plenty of time for printing and posting.
• Set the Menu: Work with your caterer to confirm the food and drink options.
3-6 Months Before: Finer Touches
• Send Invitations: Get them out early enough for RSVPs.
• Buy Wedding Rings: Choose something meaningful to you both.
• Book Hair and Makeup Trials: Test different looks and find what works best.
• Finalise Wedding Attire: Ensure fittings are scheduled and alterations are underway.
• Confirm Vendor Bookings: Double-check everything is in place.
1-3 Months Before: Finalising the Plans
• Create a Timeline: Share it with vendors, the venue, and your wedding party.
• Organise Your Seating Chart: Confirm RSVPs and finalise the layout.
• Write Your Vows: Take some time to put your feelings into words.
• Add the Little Details: Complete your favours, accessories, and finishing touches.
1 Month Before: Wrapping Things Up
• Confirm Guest Attendance: Share the headcount with your caterer.
• Meet Vendors: Have final check-ins to ensure everyone’s on the same page.
• Pack for Your Honeymoon: Organise everything you’ll need for your getaway.
1 Week Before: The Final Countdown
• Pick Up Wedding Attire: Make sure it’s ready to go.
• Venue Walk-Through: Double-check the details.
• Confirm Transportation: Ensure it’s booked and on schedule.
• Delegate Tasks: Assign responsibilities to your wedding party for the day.
• Relax: Take some time to breathe and enjoy the anticipation!
Wedding Day: Your Moment to Shine
This is it! Take it all in, enjoy every moment, and don’t worry if the timeline doesn’t go perfectly. This day is all about celebrating your love story.
A Flexible Guide for Your Day
Remember, this timeline is a guide, not a rulebook. If something doesn’t fit your plans or feels unnecessary, skip it! Your wedding is about you and your partner, so tailor this countdown to suit your needs and your vision.
If you’d like to stay extra organised, my digital wedding planner includes this countdown and more space for notes to help you stay on track. Want to discuss photography? Then lets grab a coffee and chat about your day!
