Step by Step: Checklist for the Bride

12+ Months Before the Wedding:

• Set a Budget: Determine who is contributing and create a budget.
• Choose a Date: Select a date or range of dates for the wedding.
• Create a Guest List: Draft an initial guest list.
• Hire a Wedding Planner (if desired): Consider hiring a professional for assistance.
• Book Venue: Research and book your ceremony and reception venues.
• Select Wedding Party: Choose bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key roles.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding:

• Research Vendors: Look into photographers, videographers, florists, caterers, and entertainers.
• Schedule Engagement Photos: Book a session to celebrate the engagement.
• Shop for Wedding Dress: Start looking for your wedding dress; allow time for alterations later.
• Register for Gifts: Create a wedding registry.
• Pick Wedding Theme/Colors: Choose your wedding style and color palette.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding:

• Book Vendors: Confirm your choices for photographer, florist, caterer, etc.
• Order Wedding Dress: Ensure the dress is ordered well in advance for fittings.
• Send Save-the-Dates: If you have a guest list, send save-the-date cards.
• Plan Honeymoon: Decide on a honeymoon destination and make travel arrangements.
• Pick Wedding Theme/Colors: Choose your wedding style and color palette.

4-6 Months Before the Wedding:

• Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials: Book trials to finalize your wedding look.
• Plan Ceremony Details: Discuss vows, readings, and other ceremony components.
• Finalize Guest List: Confirm and finalize your guest list for invitations.
• Finalize Attire for Wedding Party: Ensure all elements for bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc., are ordered.

2-4 Months Before the Wedding:

• Send Invitations: Mail out the wedding invitations.
• Book Rehearsal Dinner: Arrange the details for the rehearsal dinner.
• Purchase Wedding Bands: Select and purchase wedding rings.

1 Month Before the Wedding:

• RSVP Follow-Up: Ensure you have received RSVPs from guests.
• Finalize seating arrangements: Create a seating chart for the reception.
• Confirm Vendor Details: Reconfirm timing and details with all vendors.
• Schedule Final Dress Fitting: Ensure the gown fits perfectly before the big day.

1 Week Before the Wedding:

• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include items like sewing kits, pain relievers, and extra makeup.
• Communicate with Wedding Party: Confirm roles, responsibilities, and timing.
• Practice Ceremony: Conduct a rehearsal of the ceremony with the wedding party.

Day Before the Wedding:

• Get Plenty of Rest: Try to relax and get a good night’s sleep.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water and eat well to feel your best.
• Have a Little Fun: Spend quality time with your closest friends or family to ease nerves.

Wedding Day:

• Enjoy Yourself! Embrace the moment and celebrate love with friends and family.

Post-Wedding:

• Send Thank-You Notes: Acknowledge gifts and attendance with handwritten notes.
• Preserve Dress: Consider preservation options for your wedding dress.
• Reflect and Relax: Take time to enjoy your marriage and reflect on the day.

Tips:

• Stay Organized: Keep a wedding planner or digital tool for tasks and timelines.
• Stay Focused: Focus on priorities but don’t let the little things get to you.
• Communicate: Maintain open communication with your partner and vendors.
• Set Aside Time for Self-Care: Remember to take breaks from planning to avoid burnout.
• Have an Attitude of Acceptance: Things are going to happen. Just keep it all in perspective.

Crafting a well-organized checklist will help ensure your wedding planning process is smooth and enjoyable!