Planning a wedding is kind of like assembling IKEA furniture. It looks simple in theory… until you’re six screws in, sweating, and wondering why you didn’t just hire a professional.
The key to wedding sanity? A clear timeline.
Whether you’re planning a full-year engagement or a shorter sprint to the altar, this month-by-month guide will help you stay organized, on budget, and (mostly) stress-free.
12 Months Out: The Foundation
- Set a budget and guest list.
- Book your venue (ceremony + reception).
- Choose a wedding date (and backup date).
- Hire a wedding planner (if using one).
- Start browsing dress styles, venues, and vendors.
Pro Tip: Popular venues book up fast. The earlier you start, the better your options!
9–11 Months Out: Get the Dream Team
- Book your photographer/videographer, caterer, DJ/band.
- Start shopping for the dress.
- Schedule engagement photos.
- Create a wedding website and registry.
- Decide on your wedding party.
Checklist Hack: Set up a shared Google Drive or planning app like Zola, The Knot, or Trello to keep everything in one place.
6–8 Months Out: Style + Send
- Finalize your dress and order bridesmaid attire.
- Book florist, officiant, transportation, rentals.
- Choose your honeymoon destination.
- Send save-the-dates.
- Start thinking hair/makeup, décor, and menu.
Don’t Forget: You can customize almost anything, from bridesmaid colors to ceremony readings. Make it personal!
4–5 Months Out: Get the Details Down
- Order wedding bands.
- Finalize the guest list.
- Plan rehearsal dinner.
- Meet with your officiant.
- Book hair and makeup trials.
- Arrange accommodations for guests.
Bride Tip: Now’s the time to think about timelines—what happens when, and who’s in charge of it.
2–3 Months Out: Time to Test It All
- Mail formal invitations.
- Final dress fitting.
- Create your wedding day timeline.
- Confirm all vendor details.
- Plan your vows and ceremony script.
- Buy wedding party gifts.
Groom Tip: This is a great time to get fitted for suits or tuxes!
1 Month Out: You’re Almost There!
- Apply for your marriage license.
- Confirm RSVPs + finalize seating chart.
- Final beauty appointments.
- Break in your wedding shoes.
- Pack for the honeymoon.
Mental Health Reminder: Take a break. Go on a date. Watch a movie. Don’t let planning become your entire personality.
1 Week Out: Deep Breaths
- Final confirmations with all vendors.
- Print place cards, menus, programs.
- Pack an emergency kit (tide pen, tissues, band-aids, deodorant).
- Get your final beauty treatments.
- Practice vows or speeches.
- Drop off décor at the venue.
Golden Rule: At this point, delegate. Let someone else worry about Aunt Linda’s gluten-free plate.
The Day Before: Chill Mode
- Attend rehearsal + dinner.
- Do something relaxing—manicure, massage, yoga, whatever brings peace.
- Hydrate. Eat. Sleep.
- Pack an overnight bag for the wedding night.
- Charge your phone (and pack a charger).
Wedding Day: Soak It All In
You did it. It’s here. Let the little things go, be present, and soak up every second of the magic.
Planning is a marathon, not a sprint—but with the right timeline, you’ll get to the finish line in style and (mostly) sane. Bookmark this blog and come back as you check off each milestone!
