The question has been popped and now it's time to start planning for your big day. Here's a month-by-month checklist to help you create the wedding you want.
Ten to twelve months before
– Discuss wedding budget
– Announce engagement
– Decide wedding date
– Decide on wedding gown and accessories
– Create guest list
– Book wedding/reception location and determine wedding theme
– Choose members of the wedding party and plan their attire
– Book photographer and arrange for music
– Discuss wedding flowers
– Decide on clergy/officiant
– Choose type of headpiece and veil
– Decide on wedding cake
– Create a user name on theknot.com
eight to ten months before
– Make transportation arrangements to and from the wedding
– Discuss hair and makeup plans
– Shop for mother of the bride's attire
– Plan the groom's and men's attire
– Plan invitations and announcements
– Discuss the service with clergy/officiant
– Start health regime
– Finalize honeymoon plans and make reservations
– Order or make plans to make wedding cake
– Determine decorations for reception
– Schedule a tasting with caterer
– Meet with caterer and decide on style of service and menu
Three to six months before
– Choose bridal registry and gift wish list
– Select wedding rings
– Plan bridesmaids' party and select gifts
– Book photographer and videographer
– Plan rehearsal dinner
– Purchase gifts for groomsmen
– Find or make a guest book
– Plan altar decorations
– Plan pew decorations
– Decide on linens and place cards
– Determine centerpieces for reception tables
– Find accessories for flower girl and ring bearer
– Write vows
– Send out save-the-date cards to out-of-town guests
One to three months before
– Plan all last-minute decorations for the reception
– Review attendant duties with wedding party
– Confirm rehearsal dinner plans
– Mail invitations four to six weeks before wedding date
– Purchase or make any last-minute items for the wedding or honeymoon
One week before
– Pick up marriage license
– Pack for honeymoon
– Make wedding favors
– Find a day to pamper yourself
– Write checks for wedding services
– Write thank-you notes to parents and those helping with the wedding
Wedding day
– Get adequate sleep the night before
– Load luggage for honeymoon
– Enjoy the day!
After the wedding
– Mail thank-you notes for wedding gifts
– Send out change-of-address cards
– Compose a wedding memorabilia album
