Wedding planning checklist

Pre-Wedding Planning

Set a budget for the wedding

Create a guest list

Choose a wedding date and venue

Hire a wedding planner (if desired)

Book ceremony and reception vendors (caterer, photographer, florist, etc.)

Research and book accommodations for out-of-town guests

Decide on a wedding theme or color scheme

Create a wedding website or registry

Plan and book transportation for the wedding day

Attend pre-marital counseling or classes

Obtain marriage license

Plan and book honeymoon

Invitations and RSVPs

Design and order wedding invitations

Send out save-the-date cards

Set up a system for tracking RSVPs

Create a seating chart for the reception

Finalize guest list and meal choices with vendors

Design and order RSVP cards to include with invitations

Address and mail out wedding invitations

Set a deadline for RSVPs to be returned

Follow up with guests who have not RSVP'd by the deadline

Finalize seating chart based on RSVP responses

Provide final guest count to vendors for catering and seating arrangements

Attire and Beauty

Choose and order wedding attire (dress, suit, accessories)

Schedule hair and makeup trials

Arrange for bridal party attire fittings

Book appointments for manicures, pedicures, and other beauty treatments

Pack a wedding day emergency kit with essentials

Ceremony and Reception

Create a ceremony timeline and choose readings/music

Arrange for transportation to and from the ceremony/reception

Plan and book accommodations for out-of-town guests

Design and order ceremony programs and reception signage

Finalize menu and seating arrangements with caterer

Decor and Details

Decide on a wedding theme or color scheme

Order and arrange for delivery of decorations (centerpieces, linens, etc.)

Create a seating plan and place cards for guests

Organize wedding favors and guest book

Confirm delivery and setup times with vendors

Post-Wedding Tasks

Arrange for wedding dress cleaning and preservation

Send thank-you notes to guests and vendors

Update name and address with post-wedding logistics (bank, social security, etc.)

Return any rented items or borrowed decor

Preserve and display wedding photos and memorabilia