Handy Bride’s Timetable

Timing is always a concern when it comes to planning a wedding.  I thought I would put together a handy little guide that will give you an outline of what needs to be done and when.  This is certainly not an exact science so feel free to adjust as you like.  I hope it helps!

Bride and Groom Timetable.

12 Months to go

• Select a wedding date
• Discuss budget with family
• Put together a master guest list
• Choose a tone for the wedding; Formal, Semi-formal, Informal
• Hire a wedding planner
• Pick the ceremony and reception venues and come up with a plan for rain
• Select the wedding party
• Register for gifts

9 months and counting

• Hire the three biggies: the band/DJ, photographer and florist
• Pick accommodation options for guests on the wedding night
• Order and mail save-the-dates
• Shop for the wedding dress
• Select an officiant

6 months to go

• Line up additional vendors: Caterer, videographer, musicians for the ceremony
• Book venue for the rehearsal dinner and decide on guest list
• Choose Grooms attire
• Buy gifts for bridesmaids, groomsman and parents

5 months and Counting

• Meet with florist and decide upon flowers and colors
• Reserve rentals, linens and lighting
• Discuss with friends and family: invitation wording, who will make the toasts and the ceremony
• Order bridesmaid dresses
• Buy wedding rings

4 months to go

• Order invitations, the wedding Cake (reference your flowers and dress) and grooms cake
• Take dance lessons and think about songs you like
• Go over the ceremony with officiant and musicians
• Experiment with hairstyles and make-up
• Make Honeymoon plans

3 months

• Go over music with the wedding band/DJ
• Book transportation if needed
• Mail your invitations

2 months, yes that is 60 days;)

• Have a tasting with the caterer and decide on the menu
• Send out wedding announcements to local newspaper/magazines
• Order reception items; place cards, table numbers,

30 days to go

• Arrange bridesmaids’ brunch or luncheon details
• Buy marriage license
• Call those who have not RSVP’d

20 days left

• Assign tables
• Final dress fitting
• Finalize vendor payments and gratuities
• Create a schedule for the day for all vendors

7 to 14 days to go

• Confirm wedding party transportation and arrival times
• Record gifts as you receive them and write thank you notes
• Arrange for gown cleaning and bouquet preservation after the ceremony
• Pick up wedding rings: check engravings and sizes
• Remind men to pick up formal wear and shoes. Check for fit

The week before

• Three musts: Manicure, pedicure and massage
• Luncheon with your girls
• Finish honeymoon packing
• Relax the day before!

The Wedding day

• Have a healthy breakfast
• Try to zen out with yoga, a jog, or massage
• Promise yourself to enjoy every moment and let go

bride's timetable, Wedding invitations, wedding planning