Wedding Planning

There are so many elements to planning a wedding and so many things that have to get done. To help you out, below is a timeline of when things should be getting done.
9-12 months before
- Announce your engagement.
- Arrange for parents to get together.
- Choose a date.
- Decide on the budget.
- Interview wedding planners if you will be using one.
- Choose the ceremony site and meet with the officiant.
- Start compiling the guest list to get a rough head count.
- Visit reception sites and book one.
- Shop for the gown.

6-9 Months Before
- Choose the wedding party.
- Choose a caterer.
- Set up a registry.
- Order the gown.
- Shop for bridesmaids dresses.
- Choose a photographer.
- Hire a florist.
- Book the musicians and/or DJ.
- Start looking for honeymoon locations.
- Mail save-the-dates.

4-6 Months Before
- Order wedding stationery.
- Shop for the wedding cake.
- Hire wedding-day transportation.
- Book the beauty salon for the big day.
- Decide on accomodations for out-of-town guests.
- Complete the guest list.
- Start planning the honeymoon, including plane and hotel reservations.
- Arrange the rehearsal dinner.

2-4 Months Before
- Find out about marriage license requirements.
- Order tuxedos.
- Meet with the caterer and banquet manager to discuss details.
- Order the wedding cake.
- Select ceremony and reception music.
- Buy thank you gifts for attendants.
- Choose favours.
- Shop for and order wedding bands.
- Book a room for the wedding night.

4-8 Weeks Before
- Mail invitations 6-8 weeks beforehand.
- Do a hair and make-up run-through.
- Decide on insurance policy changes that will be needed.

2-4 Weeks Before
- Arrange seating for reception.
- Confirm details with the photographer, florist, etc.
- Have final dress fitting.
- Write rehearsal dinner toast.

1 Week Before
- Place the fees due on wedding day in an envelope.
- Give the caterer a final head count.
- Get final beauty treatments.
- Pack for the honeymoon.