wedding planning

Pre-Wedding Planning

Set a budget for the wedding

Determine the wedding date and time

Create a guest list

Choose and book the wedding venue

Hire a wedding planner (optional)

Research and book a photographer/videographer

Find and hire a wedding officiant

Begin searching for wedding attire (bride, groom, wedding party)

Start looking for wedding bands

Research and book accommodations for out-of-town guests

Wedding Theme and Design

Decide on a wedding theme or style

Select the color scheme

Hire a florist and discuss floral arrangements

Choose wedding decorations and centerpieces

Design and finalize wedding invitations

Plan the wedding stationery (save the dates, RSVP cards, etc.)

Arrange for wedding favors or gifts for guests

Decide on the wedding cake design and flavor

Ceremony Planning

Plan the ceremony layout and seating arrangement

Discuss and choose ceremony music

Select readings, vows, and exchange of rings wording

Arrange for any special cultural or religious customs

Decide on the order of the processional and recessional

Determine if any permits or licenses are required

Reception Planning

Plan the reception layout and seating chart

Choose and book the catering service

Plan the menu and select the beverages

Organize the wedding registry

Arrange for wedding transportation (limo, shuttle, etc.)

Book entertainment (band, DJ, or other performers)

Create a timeline for the reception events (first dance, cake cutting, etc.)

Plan the speeches and toasts

Wedding Attire and Beauty

Schedule dress fittings for the bride and bridesmaids

Select and order the bride's wedding dress

Choose and order bridesmaids' dresses

Shop for groom and groomsmen attire

Schedule hair and makeup trials for the bride and bridal party

Book hair and makeup professionals

Arrange for any necessary beauty treatments (nails, facials, etc.)

Wedding Party and Guests

Assign roles and responsibilities to the wedding party

Plan and organize bachelor/bachelorette parties

Coordinate transportation and accommodation for the wedding party

Provide guest accommodation information

Plan and organize the rehearsal dinner

Create welcome bags or baskets for out-of-town guests

Wedding Day Logistics

Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day

Confirm all vendor bookings and services

Arrange for wedding day transportation (bride, groom, and wedding party)

Confirm final headcount with the venue and caterer

Plan for any necessary rentals (chairs, tables, etc.)

Create a backup plan for outdoor weddings (in case of bad weather)

Prepare an emergency kit for any unforeseen mishaps

Assign someone to collect gifts and manage vendor payments

Post-Wedding Tasks

Arrange for wedding dress cleaning and preservation

Send thank-you notes to guests and vendors

Return any rentals or borrowed items

Review contracts and finalize payments

Change last name (if applicable)

Obtain and file the marriage license

Update insurance policies and legal documents

Remember, this is just a general checklist, and you can customize it based on your specific needs and preferences.