wedding planning checklist

Pre-Wedding

*Determine the wedding budget

*Create a guest list

*Choose the wedding date and venue

*Hire a wedding planner (if desired)

*Research and book ceremony officiant

*Start brainstorming wedding theme and style

*Decide on the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc.)

*Begin searching for wedding dress and groom's attire

*Research and book accommodations for out-of-town guests

*Start looking into wedding invitation designs and stationery

Start researching vendors such as caterers, DJs/bands, florists, etc

Book a hair and makeup trial

Create a wedding website

Organize engagement and pre-wedding celebrations

Make a timeline of to-dos and deadlines

Arrange transportation for wedding day

Purchase wedding rings

Create a wedding day emergency kit

Create a seating chart

Research and book honeymoon destination

Ceremony Details

*Finalize ceremony location and time

*Meet with the officiant to discuss ceremony details

*Select and book ceremony musicians or DJ

*Choose readings, vows, and any special rituals for the ceremony

*Decide on ceremony decorations and floral arrangements

*Arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests to the ceremony

Reception Planning

*Research and book reception venue

*Decide on the reception style (sit-down dinner, buffet, cocktail reception, etc.)

*Choose and book a caterer or discuss menu options with the venue

*Select wedding cake or dessert options

*Plan the bar setup and beverage options

*Create a seating chart and floor plan for the reception

*Select and book entertainment (band, DJ, etc.)

*Decide on reception decorations and centerpieces

*Plan wedding favors for guests

*Arrange any additional activities or entertainment for the reception (photo booths, games, etc.)

*Research and book accommodations for the wedding night

Wedding Attire and Beauty

*Schedule dress fittings and alterations

*Choose and order bridesmaids' dresses

*Select and order groomsmen attire

*Decide on hair and makeup styles and schedule trials

*Book hair and makeup artists for the wedding day

*Shop for wedding accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry, etc.)

Photography and Videography

*Research and book a wedding photographer

*Discuss specific shots or poses with the photographer

*Research and book a wedding videographer (if desired)

*Compile a list of must-have shots or moments for the photographer and videographer

Wedding Rings and Legal Documents

*Shop for wedding rings

*Order and engrave wedding rings

*Obtain marriage license and complete any required paperwork

Wedding Party and Guest Accommodations

*Coordinate bridesmaids' dress fittings and alterations

*Plan bachelor/bachelorette parties

*Organize transportation for the wedding party on the wedding day

*Provide accommodation information to out-of-town guests

*Create welcome bags or gifts for out-of-town guests

Wedding Day Timeline

*Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day

*Coordinate with all vendors and share the timeline with them

*Assign someone to be in charge of the timeline and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day

Post-Wedding

*Write and send thank-you cards to guests and vendors

*Return any rented items or borrowed decorations

*Submit name change forms (if applicable)

*Review and organize wedding photos and videos

Remember to adapt this checklist based on your specific wedding needs and preferences.