The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Stunning Day
Last Updated on August 7, 2024 by Project Party
Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming, with countless details to manage from start to finish. We’ve created this detailed wedding planning checklist to help you stay organised and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. From 12 months out to the big day, our guide covers everything you need to know to plan the perfect wedding. We recommend you print this out so you can track your progress along the way. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive wedding planning guide or specific wedding preparation steps, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and make your dream wedding a reality!
Wedding Planning Checklist: 12 Months Before the Big Day
Planning a wedding is a monumental task that requires careful consideration and organisation. At the 12-month mark, you’re setting the foundation for your special day. This phase is all about establishing a budget, creating a planning system, and making key decisions that will shape the rest of your wedding journey. Take the time now to make thoughtful choices and lay a solid groundwork so that everything else will fall into place more smoothly.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this crucial first stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 1: Set a Budget: Before you can do anything else, it’s important to set a realistic budget. Look at your savings and decide how much you’re comfortable spending on the wedding. Create a detailed budget plan, including categories like venue, attire, catering, etc
- Step 2: Start a Wedding File: Set up a physical or online folder to store all of your planning information and documents. This will make it easier to keep track of contracts, budgets, and timelines. This file will be foundational for keeping everything organised.
- Step 3: Choose Your Wedding Party: Your wedding party should consist of family and friends who are important to both you and your partner. Make sure it’s a mix of male and female, and keep in mind that there is no specific number of bridesmaids or groomsmen you have to have.
- Step 4: Start Researching Vendors: Now is the time to start researching vendors. From florists and caterers to DJs and photographers, you’ll need to coordinate lots of different services to pull off the perfect event.
- Step 5: Choose Your Wedding Date: When selecting your wedding date, consider the time of year and how long you have to plan. Also, keep in mind the availability of your preferred venues and vendors, and any personal significance of the date.
- Step 6: Find a Celebrant or Other Officiant: Begin your search for a celebrant or other officiant early, as popular ones are often booked well in advance. Be sure to choose someone who aligns with your vision for the ceremony.
- Step 7: Hire a Planner (Optional): If you don’t feel comfortable planning the wedding on your own, hire a professional planner to help. They can recommend vendors, coordinate details, and provide valuable advice throughout the process.
Wedding Planning Checklist: 9 Months Before the Big Day
As you approach the nine-month mark, it’s time to solidify your plans and start booking essential services. This period is about making your vision a reality by reserving your venue, sending out save-the-dates, and securing your key vendors. By now, you should have a clear idea of your guest list and the logistical aspects of your wedding. This is a busy but exciting phase where you begin to see your plans take shape and the details of your big day start to come together.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 8: Reserve Your Venue: Book the venue for your ceremony and reception as soon as possible, since popular venues get booked up quickly. When choosing a venue, look for features that align with your vision and carefully review the contract terms.
- Step 9: Send Save the Dates: Once the venue is reserved, send out your save-the-dates so guests can plan accordingly. Include essential details and consider timing to ensure your guests have ample notice.

- Step 10: Finalise Your Guest List: Make sure to include your wedding party in the total count. Consider renting extra chairs if you don’t know the exact number yet. Handle RSVPs and manage any special requirements or dietary restrictions.
- Step 11: Book Your Vendors: Start booking the vendors you’ve researched. Make sure to get a contract and read it carefully before signing. This will include your officiant, photographer, entertainment, florist, caterer, and any specialty vendors.
Wedding Planning Checklist: 6 Months Before the Big Day
With six months to go, the wedding planning process is in full swing. This is the time to focus on finalising your attire, planning your honeymoon, and taking care of any personal touches you want to add. You’ll also want to start working on any DIY projects that will enhance your wedding’s uniqueness. This stage is about refining your plans, making important decisions, and ensuring that everything aligns with your vision for the perfect wedding.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 12: Choose Your Wedding Attire: Shop for your wedding dress and the bridesmaids’ dresses. If you’re having a tuxedo or suits for the groomsmen, choose those as well. Schedule fittings and select accessories to complement your look.

- Step 13: Plan Your Honeymoon: Start researching and booking your honeymoon destinations. Make sure to take into account the seasons and any holidays that could make it more expensive. Budget and plan for the trip to ensure a stress-free getaway.
- Step 14: Shop for Wedding Rings: Shop around and find wedding bands or rings that best suit your partner’s style. Consider rings that complement each other and fit your style.
- Step 15: Start Working on DIY Projects: If you’re making any of your decorations or favours, this is the time to start. Plan a timeline for completing these projects to ensure they’re ready in time for the wedding.
Wedding Planning Checklist: 3 Months Before the Big Day
At the three-month mark, your wedding is just around the corner, and it’s time to focus on the finer details. This period involves finalising your menu, ordering cakes, and writing your vows. It’s also essential to confirm all your bookings and communicate with your vendors to ensure everything is on track. This is a critical phase where you tie up any loose ends and make sure that all aspects of your wedding are ready for the big day.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 16: Finalise Your Menu: Work with your caterer to finalise your menu. Make sure to account for any dietary restrictions your guests may have and schedule tasting sessions to customise your menu.
- Step 17: Order Your Cake: Shop around for bakers and schedule a tasting to choose your cake. Consider styles and flavours that match your wedding theme and personal preferences.
- Step 18: Write Your Vows: Take some time to write your vows. Personalize them with meaningful words and consider examples or online resources for inspiration.
- Step 19: Confirm All Your Bookings: Call and email all your vendors to confirm that everything is in order. This includes your venue, photographer, caterer, florist, and any other services you’ve booked.
Wedding Planning Checklist: 2 Months Before the Big Day
With two months to go, your wedding plans should be almost complete. This stage involves sending out invitations, arranging final fittings, and planning the ceremony details. It’s crucial to double-check everything and make any necessary adjustments. You’ll also want to start thinking about the logistics of the day itself, including transportation and accommodation for guests. This period is about ensuring that every detail is perfect and that you’re fully prepared for the big day.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 20: Send Out Invitations: Your invitations should be sent out six to eight weeks before the wedding. Make sure to include an RSVP card and any additional information your guests may need. Consider addressing, and tracking RSVPs, and including extra details.
- Step 21: Arrange Final Fittings: Schedule final fittings for your wedding attire to ensure everything fits perfectly. Check for any alterations needed and ensure all accessories are ready.
- Step 22: Plan Your Ceremony Details: Work with your officiant to plan the details of your ceremony. This includes readings, music, and any other special touches you want to include.
- Step 23: Plan Transportation and Accommodation: Make sure you have transportation arranged for the day of the wedding. This includes transportation for the wedding party and any guests who may need it. If you have out-of-town guests, make sure they have accommodations booked as well.
- Step 24: Start Working on DIY Projects: If you haven’t already, continue working on any DIY projects. Ensure these are completed and ready for the wedding day.
- Step 25: Set Up a Wedding Website: Create and update your wedding website with information about the event, registry details, and any other relevant information for your guests.
Wedding Planning Checklist: 4 Weeks Before the Big Day
With just four weeks to go, you’re in the final stretch of your wedding planning journey. This is the time to focus on the last-minute details and make sure everything is in place. You’ll want to confirm all your bookings, finalise your seating arrangements, and take care of any outstanding tasks. This is also a good time to pamper yourself and take care of any beauty treatments. This stage is about ensuring that everything is perfect and that you’re fully prepared for the big day.
Here’s what you need to focus on during this stage of your wedding planning:
- Step 26: Confirm All Bookings: Call all your vendors to confirm their arrival times and services. Make sure everyone knows their roles and that there are no last-minute changes.
- Step 27: Finalise Seating Arrangements: Create a seating chart for the reception. Make sure to accommodate any special requests or needs from your guests.

- Step 28: Have a Final Dress Fitting: Ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly and make any last-minute adjustments. This includes accessories and any undergarments you’ll be wearing.
- Step 29: Pamper Yourself: Take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. Schedule any beauty treatments, such as haircuts, manicures, or facials.
- Step 30: Prepare Emergency Kits: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, stain remover, and a small sewing kit. This will come in handy if any unexpected issues arise on the big day.
- Step 31: Confirm Details with Officiant: Review the ceremony details with your officiant to ensure everything is in order. Discuss any last-minute changes or special requests.
Wedding Planning Checklist: The Week of the Wedding
The final week before your wedding is the time to focus on the last-minute preparations and ensure everything is ready for the big day. This is an exciting and busy time, so make sure you’re staying organised and taking care of yourself. Finalise any outstanding details, confirm logistics, and take time to enjoy the moments leading up to your wedding. This is the final push before the big day, so stay calm and focused.
Here’s what you need to focus on during the final week of your wedding planning:
- Step 32: Confirm Final Details with Vendors: Touch base with all your vendors to confirm times, locations, and any final details. Ensure that everyone knows what to expect and is ready for the big day.
- Step 33: Pack for Your Honeymoon: Prepare and pack for your honeymoon. Make sure you have everything you need, including travel documents, clothing, and any other essentials.
- Step 34: Finalise Payment for Vendors: Ensure all payments to vendors are completed or scheduled. This includes tipping and any final balances due.
- Step 35: Final Checks for Wedding Attire: Double-check that your wedding attire is ready and in good condition. Make sure it’s properly packed and ready for the big day.
- Step 36: Review the Itinerary: Go over the wedding day itinerary with your wedding party and any helpers. Make sure everyone knows their roles and the schedule for the day.
- Step 37: Delegate Tasks: Assign any remaining tasks to trusted friends or family members. This will help ensure everything runs smoothly and allow you to focus on enjoying your wedding.
Wedding Planning Checklist: The Day Before the Big Day
The day before your wedding is all about preparation and relaxation. This is the final opportunity to ensure everything is ready and to take some time for yourself before the big day. Complete any remaining tasks, and make sure to relax and enjoy the moment. This is your time to shine, so take a deep breath and get ready for the wedding of your dreams.
Here’s what you need to focus on the day before your wedding:
- Step 38: Have a Final Check-In with Vendors: Confirm the final details with your vendors and make sure they have everything they need. Ensure that all logistics are in place and that everyone is ready for the big day.
- Step 39: Relax and Pamper Yourself: Take some time to relax and pamper yourself. Enjoy a calming activity, such as a massage or a soothing bath, to help reduce any pre-wedding stress.
- Step 40: Have a Rehearsal: If you haven’t already, have a rehearsal of the ceremony with your wedding party and officiant. This will help everyone feel comfortable and prepared for the big day.

- Step 41: Set Up Wedding Day Essentials: Prepare any items you’ll need on the wedding day, including your rings, vows, and emergency kit. Make sure these are easily accessible and in a safe place.
- Step 42: Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Ensure you get plenty of rest the night before the wedding. A good night’s sleep will help you feel refreshed and ready for your special day.
Wedding Planning Checklist: The Big Day!
Your wedding day has finally arrived! This is the culmination of all your hard work and planning. Stay calm and focused, and remember to enjoy every moment. Here’s what you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and memorable wedding day.
Here’s what you need to focus on on your wedding day:
- Step 43: Eat a Healthy Breakfast: Start your day with a healthy breakfast to keep your energy levels up. It’s important to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the day.
- Step 44: Stick to the Schedule: Follow the schedule you’ve planned as closely as possible. Allow for some flexibility, but make sure everything is on track for the ceremony and reception.
- Step 45: Enjoy the Moment: Take time to enjoy the day and celebrate with your loved ones. Be present and soak in every moment of your special day.
- Step 46: Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared for any unexpected issues with a backup plan. Have a designated person to handle any emergencies or last-minute changes.
- Step 47: Have Fun!: Most importantly, have fun and celebrate your love with your partner, family, and friends. This is your special day, so make the most of it and create wonderful memories.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Your Wedding Planning Checklist
Planning a wedding is a journey filled with excitement and challenges. By following this comprehensive wedding planning checklist, you can stay organised, reduce stress, and ensure that every detail is accounted for. Remember to enjoy the process and cherish the moments leading up to your big day. With careful planning and a clear vision, your wedding day will be everything you dreamed of and more. Happy planning!
Planning a wedding can be a complex process, but with careful preparation and organisation, you can create a beautiful and memorable event. Use this checklist as a guide to keep track of your progress and ensure that every detail is covered. Congratulations and best wishes for a wonderful wedding day!
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