LIFESTYLE

Don’t Stress YOUR Wedding!

Planning a wedding can be a complex process, but having a checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any important details. Here’s a comprehensive wedding planning checklist to guide you through the process:

12-18 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Set a budget.
2. Decide on the type of wedding you want (traditional, destination, etc.).
3. Create a guest list.
4. Choose a wedding date and book your venue(s).
5. Hire a wedding planner if desired.
6. Start researching and booking key vendors:
– Caterer
– Photographer/Videographer
– Florist
– Entertainment (DJ/band)
– Officiant
– Wedding attire (dress/suit)
7. Research and book accommodations for out-of-town guests.
8. Begin planning honeymoon.
9. Start a wedding binder or digital folder to keep track of contracts, inspiration, and important documents.

8-12 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Finalize guest list and send save-the-dates.
2. Order wedding dress and attire for wedding party.
3. Choose and order wedding rings.
4. Book transportation for the wedding day.
5. Start planning ceremony details (readings, music, vows).
6. Begin researching and booking additional vendors:
– Cake baker
– Hair and makeup artist
– Rental equipment (chairs, tables, etc.)
7. Start thinking about wedding décor and theme.
8. Register for gifts.
9. Purchase wedding insurance if desired.

**6-8 Months Before the Wedding:**

1. Choose and order invitations.
2. Book accommodations for wedding night.
3. Plan rehearsal dinner.
4. Arrange wedding day timeline.
5. Attend premarital counseling if desired.
6. Finalize honeymoon plans and book flights/accommodations.
7. Order wedding favors, if desired.

4-6 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Send out wedding invitations.
2. Finalize menu with caterer.
3. Schedule fittings for wedding attire.
4. Purchase or rent groomsmen attire.
5. Finalize ceremony details.
6. Order wedding cake.
7. Arrange for any necessary permits or licenses.
8. Purchase wedding party gifts.
9. Arrange for any special cultural or religious ceremonies.

**2-4 Months Before the Wedding:**

1. Finalize details with all vendors.
2. Purchase or rent any necessary décor.
3. Finalize wedding day timeline.
4. Apply for marriage license.
5. Plan seating arrangements.
6. Plan any pre-wedding events (bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette parties).
7. Arrange for day-of transportation.
8. Purchase wedding day emergency kit.

1-2 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Confirm final details with all vendors.
2. Finalize seating chart.
3. Begin writing vows.
4. Finalize ceremony readings and music.
5. Attend any pre-wedding appointments (hair, makeup, etc.).
6. Order or make any DIY wedding favors or décor.
7. Finalize honeymoon plans.
8. Send rehearsal dinner invitations.

1 Week Before the Wedding:

1. Confirm all details with vendors one final time.
2. Pack for the honeymoon.
3. Pick up wedding attire.
4. Break in wedding shoes.
5. Confirm timeline with wedding party.
6. Delegate wedding day tasks to trusted friends or family.
7. Pay vendors or arrange for payment on the wedding day.

On the Wedding Day:

1. Relax and enjoy your special day!
2. Stay hydrated and eat.
3. Have a point person for vendors and any last-minute issues.
4. Take moments to soak it all in.

Remember, this checklist is a guide, and you may need to adjust based on your specific circumstances and preferences. Happy planning!