Skip to main content

Wedding Checklist

Posted by Aunomay

July 21, 2026

On July 21, 2026

0

Wedding Tools · United States

Wedding Checklist

An elegant planning timeline — from the first toast to thank-you notes. Progress is saved on this device.

Loading checklist…

12+ months out

Set a budget and talk finances with your partner (and families if contributing)
Pick a wedding date range and preferred season
Create a shared planning folder (Google Drive / Dropbox)
Draft a preliminary guest list (A-list / B-list)
Research and tour ceremony + reception venues
Book venue(s) and review contract for overtime, rain plan, and insurance
Choose wedding style / aesthetic (classic, modern, rustic, etc.)
Decide if you need a full-service planner, partial planner, or day-of coordinator
Note your state marriage license rules (waiting period, IDs, blood test if any)

9–11 months out

Book photographer and videographer
Book caterer or confirm venue catering package; schedule tasting
Book DJ or band; discuss ceremony musicians if separate
Book officiant (religious, civil, or friend ordained online)
Start shopping for wedding dress / suit; book fittings
Ask wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, MOH, best man)
Reserve hotel room blocks for out-of-town guests
Start wedding registry (Target, Amazon, Crate & Barrel, etc.)
Order and send save-the-dates (especially for destination or peak season)

6–8 months out

Book florist; share color palette and mockups
Book bakery for cake / dessert table; schedule tasting
Book rentals if needed (tables, linens, lighting, lounge furniture)
Order invitations, RSVP cards, and envelopes
Launch wedding website (schedule, travel, registry, RSVP)
Choose wedding party attire and share ordering deadlines
Book hair and makeup artists; schedule trial
Shop for wedding bands
Book honeymoon flights and hotels (or plan a delayed honeymoon)
Coordinate with hosts on bridal shower / couples shower dates

3–5 months out

Mail invitations (typically 6–8 weeks before; earlier for destination)
Finalize menu, bar package, and cake flavors
Write or choose vows; plan ceremony order of events
Submit must-play / do-not-play song lists to DJ or band
Book transportation (couple, wedding party, guest shuttles)
Order favors, welcome bags, or guest gifts if using
Book rehearsal dinner venue and send guest list to hosts
Purchase wedding insurance if desired (cancellation, liability)
If changing name, research Social Security / DMV / passport steps

1–2 months out

Track RSVPs; follow up with non-responders
Create seating chart and place cards
Send final vendor timeline and contact sheet
Apply for marriage license (timing depends on your state/county)
Final dress / suit fitting; break in wedding shoes
Print programs, menus, and signage
Pay remaining vendor deposits; note final balance due dates
Confirm who is speaking / toasting and time limits
Enjoy bachelor / bachelorette events; rest afterward

2 weeks out

Give final guest count to caterer and venue
Finalize seating chart after last RSVPs
Confirm hair/makeup schedule for wedding party
Prepare vendor tip envelopes and final checks
Assemble day-of emergency kit (sewing, stain, meds, snacks)
Pack honeymoon bags and wedding-day outfits

1 week out

Reconfirm all vendors with arrival times and parking info
Hold ceremony rehearsal; share processional order
Give rings and license to the best man / trusted person
Withdraw cash for tips; charge cards and devices
Schedule downtime; hydrate and sleep
Check forecast; confirm rain plan with venue

Wedding day

Eat breakfast; stick to the getting-ready timeline
Exchange gifts / cards; first look if planned
Ceremony — be present, breathe, and enjoy
Reception — greet guests, cut cake, first dance
Grand exit / after-party plan

After the wedding

Send thank-you notes (aim within 3 months)
Select album photos; share favorites with family
Return rentals; preserve dress / clean suit
File name-change paperwork if applicable
Pay final vendor balances; review remaining receipts
Plan a quiet dinner together — you did it

Seasonal Dress Finder

Older Color Dress Finder

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.