Countdown: what to do, when to do it
Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you create the wedding you want.
Ten to 12 months before
o Decide wedding date
o Book wedding/reception location and determine wedding theme
o Put together a wedding budget
o Compose a to-do checklist
o Announce engagement
o Select wedding gown, accessories
o Choose members of the wedding party and plan their attire
o Decide on wedding cake
o Book photographer and music arrangements
o Discuss wedding flowers
o Decide on clergy/officiant
o Select headpiece and veil
Eight to 10 months before
o Make transportation arrangements to and from the wedding
o Discuss hair and makeup plans
o Decide attire with mother of the bride
o Plan the groom’s and men’s attire
o Plan invitations, announcements
o Discuss the service with clergy/officiant
o Finalize honeymoon plans and make reservations
o Order or make plans to make wedding cake
o Determine reception decorations
o Plan reception menu
Three to six months before
o Choose bridal registry and gift wish list
o Select wedding rings
o Plan bridesmaids’ party, select gifts
o Book photographer, videographer
o Plan rehearsal dinner
o Purchase gifts for groomsmen
o Find or make a guest book
o Plan altar decorations
o Plan pew decorations
o Decide on napkins and place cards
o Determine reception table centerpieces
o Find accessories for flower girl and ring bearer
o Decide where to live after the wedding
One to three months before
o Plan all last-minute decorations for the reception
o Review attendant duties with wedding party
o Confirm rehearsal dinner plans
o Purchase or make any last-minute items for the wedding or honeymoon
One week before
o Pick up marriage license
o Pack for honeymoon
o Make wedding favors
o Write checks for wedding services
o Write thank-you notes to parents and those helping with the wedding
Wedding day
o Try to get adequate sleep the night before
o Load luggage for honeymoon
o Enjoy the day!
After the wedding
o Mail thank-you notes for wedding gifts
o Send change-of-address cards
o Compose a wedding memorabilia album