January 7, 2024
Need help with wedding planning… here are some tips to make the process go smoothly (this is based on a one year engagement, but you can taylor it to your specific time frame as well)! Planning a wedding with a one-year engagement provides a comfortable timeline to organize all the details without feeling rushed. Here’s a general wedding planning timeline for a one-year engagement:
12 Months Before the Wedding:
- Set the Date and Time:
- Choose a wedding date and time that works for you and your partner. Consider factors like season, day of the week, and any special significance.
- Establish a Budget:
- Determine your overall wedding budget. This will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
- Draft the Guest List:
- Begin creating a preliminary guest list. This will help you estimate the size of the venue you’ll need.
- Book the Venue:
- Start researching and visiting potential wedding venues. Once you find the right one, book it as soon as possible.
- Hire Key Vendors:
- Secure essential vendors early, such as the photographer, videographer, and caterer. Some popular vendors get booked quickly. I know I usually book out about a year in advance for busy season – but don’t hesitate to ask me if I have your date available bc now that I am only taking a limited number of weddings each year to really focus on my select clients, that leaves room for more open dates 🙂
- Start the Wedding Dress Search:
- Begin shopping for your wedding dress. It can take several months for the dress to be ordered and altered.
8-10 Months Before:
- Select the Wedding Party:
- Ask friends and family members to be part of your wedding party.
- Send Save-the-Dates:
- Send save-the-date cards to notify guests of your wedding date, especially if it’s a destination wedding or during a busy season.
- Research and Book Accommodations:
- Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests. Consider reserving room blocks for discounted rates.
- Plan the Honeymoon:
- Start researching and planning your honeymoon. Consider any travel restrictions or visa requirements.
- Design and Order Invitations:
- Design your wedding invitations and order them. Include RSVP cards if needed.
6-8 Months Before:
- Choose Vendors for Decor and Flowers:
- Select florists, decorators, and any other vendors related to the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
- Finalize the Menu:
- Work with your caterer to finalize the menu, taking into account any dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Register for Gifts:
- Create a wedding registry and share the information with your guests.
- Book Entertainment:
- Secure entertainment for the reception, such as a band or DJ.
4-6 Months Before:
- Finalize the Guest List:
- Review and finalize the guest list. Send out wedding invitations.
- Arrange Transportation:
- Book transportation for the wedding day, such as limos or shuttles for guests.
- Plan Rehearsal Dinner:
- Begin planning the rehearsal dinner. Book a venue and send invitations to the wedding party and close family.
- Choose Wedding Rings:
- Select and order wedding rings for you and your partner.
2-4 Months Before:
- Schedule Dress Fittings:
- Attend dress fittings to ensure your gown fits perfectly.
- Finalize Ceremony Details:
- Work on ceremony details, including vows, readings, and any special rituals.
- Purchase Wedding Party Attire:
- Ensure that bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party have their attire.
- Apply for Marriage License:
- Check the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your area and apply accordingly.
1-2 Months Before:
- Finalize Seating Chart:
- Create and finalize the seating chart for the reception.
- Confirm Details with Vendors:
- Confirm all details with vendors, including the timeline for the day.
- Send Final Guest Count to Caterer:
- Provide the final guest count to the caterer.
- Pack for the Honeymoon:
- Start packing for your honeymoon, ensuring you have all necessary documents and essentials.
1 Week Before:
- Confirm Final Details:
- Confirm all final details with vendors and the venue.
- Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner:
- Attend the wedding rehearsal and enjoy the rehearsal dinner.
- Relax and Enjoy:
- Take some time for self-care and relaxation in the days leading up to the wedding.
Remember that this timeline is a general guide, and adjustments may be needed based on your specific circumstances. Flexibility and open communication with your partner and vendors are key to a smooth wedding planning process.
As for your engagement session, I normally see people do theirs around 4-11 months out from the wedding. That’s why I didn’t add it up there because truly its so flexible and just up to you, but most people use the photos for Save the Dates!
I hope this was helpful in your wedding planning journey! If you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email or shoot me a DM 🙂
Click here for more info on wedding photography!
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