10-12 Months Before
- Create a planning notebook with a calendar.
- Create a guest list.
- Visit and reserve a location and venue.
- Solicit a pastor, magistrate or officiate for the ceremony.
- Create a budget.
- Host an announcement party for family and friends.
- Consider hiring a wedding planner.
- Research and choose a caterer, florist, bakery, DJ, and photographer for your ceremony. Discuss your plans and make sure they can meet your needs. Be sure to get everything in writing, including signed contracts.
- Choose a song list.
- Start planning your ceremony day itinerary.
- Plan your wedding attire and inform your wedding party.
- Book your honeymoon location.
- Start drafting your vows.
- Start building your gift registry.
- Purchase your commitment or wedding rings.
- Finalize the ceremony day itinerary.
- Finalize the venue, floral choices, the DJ and other entertainment, the baker, photographer, etc.
- Schedule tuxedo fittings
- Send out invitations.
- Confirm honeymoon travel plans.
- Finalize vows.
- Book rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner.
- Apply for civil union, domestic partnership or marriage liscenses.
- Arrange seating for the wedding reception.
- Confirm guest list and rsvp's.
- Finalize guest count with vendors.
- Confirm delivery of cake, floral arrangements, DJ, etc.
- Go over ceremony day itinerary with photographer.
- Peform final fitting for wedding attire.
- Rehearse and memorize vows.
- Finalize and confirm limousine or driver.
- Review ceremony day itinerary.
- Make payment to the DJ or musicians.
- Make payment to the pastor, magistrate or officiate.
- Attend the ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
- Make last minute adjustments.
- Delegate any additional logistical or payment details to family or friends.
- Relax and enjoy the ceremony!
