Your Ultimate Wedding Checklist

Plan your dream wedding effortlessly with our checklist, making sure no detail is overlooked as you prepare for your special day.

Months and out

Points and tasks

12 Months Before the Wedding – The Foundation

Set Your Budget – Decide on a comfortable spending range and allocate funds to each category.
Draft Your Guest List – Get a rough estimate of attendees before choosing a venue.
Choose Your Wedding Style & Theme – Classic, rustic, modern? Decide on your aesthetic.
Research & Book Your Venue – Ensure availability for your desired date and confirm logistics.
Hire a Wedding Planner (if needed) – They’ll help with organization, vendors, and execution.
Select & Book Your Photographer & Videographer – Research their portfolios before making a choice.
Decide on the Wedding Party – Ask your bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, and ring bearer.
Start Dress Shopping – Look for inspiration, visit boutiques, and book your first fittings.
Create a Wedding Website – Include date, venue details, and registry info for guests.
Book a Caterer – Plan an initial tasting session to refine menu choices.
Research Entertainment Options – DJ, live band, or curated playlist? Start reaching out.
Reserve Ceremony & Reception Officiant – A religious leader, friend, or hired officiant.
Consider Wedding Insurance – Protect your investment against unforeseen issues.

Create a Wedding Binder or Digital Folder – Organize ideas, contracts, and inspiration.
Finalize Your Guest List – Have a near-final number before moving forward with vendors.
Book Your Florist – Discuss floral arrangements, bouquets, and seasonal availability.
Book Your Entertainment – Confirm your DJ, live band, or other music needs.
Choose Your Wedding Party Attire – Select styles and colors for bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Research & Book Accommodation Blocks – Reserve hotel rooms for guests traveling for the wedding.
Begin Dress Shopping for the Mother of the Bride & Groom – This can take time, so start early.
Create a Wedding Website – Start gathering information to share with guests.
Engagement Photoshoot – Book a session and use the photos for save-the-dates or your wedding site.

Plan Your Save-the-Dates – Order and prepare to send them.
Begin Researching Invitations – Explore different designs and printing options.
Select & Book Your Baker – Schedule a cake-tasting session.
Choose Your Makeup & Hairstylist – Research artists, schedule trials, and book your favorite.
Start Thinking About Your Honeymoon – Decide on your destination and budget.
Register for Gifts – Start a registry with a mix of price points and practical gifts.
Book an Officiant – Confirm who will perform your ceremony and discuss any requirements.
Research Accommodation Options – Reserve hotel blocks for out-of-town guests.
Discuss Honeymoon Destinations – Research locations, check passports, and start saving.

Send Save-the-Dates – Ensure guests have enough notice, especially for destination weddings.
Confirm Dress Selection & Order It – Wedding gowns can take months to arrive.
Book a Rental Company (if needed) – Secure chairs, linens, or other décor elements.
Plan & Book Transportation – Arrange travel for guests, wedding party, or getaway car.
Look Into Marriage License Requirements – Each state or country has different legal requirements.

Create a Timeline for the Wedding Day – Outline key events like the ceremony, reception, and speeches.
Book a Calligrapher (if needed) – Handwritten invitations or signage may require advance booking.
Decide on Ceremony Readings & Music – Choose songs for processional, recessional, and first dance.

Shop for Bridesmaid Dresses – Order in time for alterations.
Finalize Your Menu – Schedule a tasting and approve the final catering plan.
Book Your Rentals – If needed, secure extra tables, chairs, or décor.

Order Invitations & Stationery – Include RSVP cards, menus, and thank-you notes.
Buy Wedding Rings – Allow time for resizing or custom engraving.
Plan Rehearsal Dinner – Choose a location and discuss the menu.
Confirm All Vendor Bookings – Reconfirm dates, times, and deposits with vendors.
Select Attire for Groom & Groomsmen – Decide between renting or purchasing.

Have Your First Dress Fitting – Ensure proper alterations and fit.
Create a Playlist for the DJ/Band – Share must-play songs and do-not-play lists.
Choose Your Wedding Favors – Order personalized gifts for guests.
Schedule a Hair & Makeup Trial – Confirm your final bridal look.
Write Your Vows – Start drafting heartfelt words for the ceremony.
Order Special Signage – Welcome signs, seating charts, or directional signs.
Plan the Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties – Assign planning to the wedding party.

Send Out Invitations – Give guests time to RSVP.
Have Second Dress Fitting – Ensure alterations are progressing.
Confirm Seating Chart & Assignments – Draft based on RSVPs.
Purchase Wedding Accessories – Veil, shoes, jewelry, and undergarments.
Order Wedding Programs – If having a printed program, finalize the design.
Plan Your First Dance – Consider taking lessons if needed.
Confirm Marriage License Appointment – Double-check state or country requirements.

Break in Your Wedding Shoes – Wear them around the house to prevent blisters.
Host Your Bridal Shower – Typically planned by bridesmaids or family.
Confirm Final Guest Count with Caterer – Ensure enough food and seating.
Finalize Reception Layout & Seating Chart – Share with venue and vendors.
Schedule Final Dress Fitting – Ensure a perfect fit before pickup.
Write Your Thank-You Speeches – Prepare messages for guests and loved ones.

Apply for Your Marriage License – Pick it up according to local requirements.
Confirm Details with All Vendors – Ensure everyone is on the same page.
Prepare Wedding Day Emergency Kit – Include essentials like safety pins, mints, and stain remover.
Pack for Your Honeymoon – Organize travel documents and luggage.
Practice Walking in Your Dress & Shoes – Get comfortable before the big day.

Get Final Beauty Touch-Ups – Hair color, waxing, facials.
Check in with Bridesmaids & Groomsmen – Ensure they have their attire and schedule.
Prepare Tips for Vendors – Set aside envelopes for tips and payments.
Confirm Guest Transportation – If providing shuttles or rentals.

Pick Up Your Dress – Ensure it’s steamed and ready to go.
Pack a Getting-Ready Bag – Include everything needed for the morning of.
Confirm Timeline with Photographer – Plan key moments to capture.
Have a Final Venue Walkthrough – Do one last check of the ceremony and reception site.
Relax & Get Some Rest – Prioritize sleep and hydration before the big day.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast – Keep energy levels up.
Have Your Dress & Accessories Ready – Avoid last-minute rushing.
Hand Over Important Items to Your Planner or Maid of Honor – Keep stress levels low.
Enjoy Every Moment – The day will fly by, so soak it all in.