Congratulations! You just said "yes" to the love of your life, and now the exciting journey to "I do" begins. But between venue tours, dress shopping, and guest lists, wedding planning can feel overwhelming. Where do you even start?
To help, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you need to do—and when—to ensure your wedding planning process is smooth and stress-free!
12+ Months Before the Wedding:
The Big Picture Decisions
1. Set Your Budget
Before you do anything else, sit down and determine how much you're willing to spend. Consider contributions from family, savings, and priorities (what’s most important to you—venue, photography, entertainment?).
2. Choose a Wedding Date
Popular venues and vendors book up fast, especially on Saturdays in peak wedding season (May-October). If you have a dream venue or photographer, check their availability before locking in a date.
3. Book Your Venue
Your venue sets the tone for everything—the style, guest count, and even the date if you’re flexible. Once it’s booked, you can start securing other key vendors.
4. Book Your Photographer
Photographers often book 12-18 months in advance, especially for prime dates. Your photographer will be with you all day capturing every moment, so it’s essential to choose someone whose work and approach align with your vision. Check out my blog on How to Choose a Wedding Photographer for tips on what to look for when reviewing portfolios and full galleries.
5. Book Other Key Vendors
Once your venue and photographer are secured, move on to:
✅ Wedding planner (if using one)
✅ Videographer
✅ Caterer
✅ Entertainment (DJ or live band)
✅ Officiant
✅ Florist
The sooner you book, the more options you'll have!
9-12 Months Before:
The Details Take Shape
6. Say Yes to the Dress (& Suits!)
Many bridal gowns take 6-9 months to be made and altered, so shop early. Don’t forget about the groom and wedding party attire, too!
7. Finalize Your Guest List & Send Save-the-Dates
Your guest list affects your budget and venue capacity, so finalize numbers early. Send save-the-dates especially if you have out-of-town guests or a destination wedding.
8. Plan Your Decor & Rentals
Think about your wedding aesthetic, colors, and decor elements. If renting items like chairs, linens, or a ceremony arch, now’s the time to secure them.
6-9 Months Before:
Make It Official
9. Book Your Hair & Makeup Artist
Great hair and makeup artists book quickly, so secure yours early and schedule a trial closer to the wedding.
10. Order Invitations & Wedding Favors
You’ll want to send invitations 3-4 months before the wedding. If you're including wedding favors, now’s a good time to start sourcing them.
11. Plan Your Ceremony Details
Work with your officiant to create a ceremony structure that reflects you as a couple.
3-6 Months Before:
Bringing It All Together
12. Schedule Engagement Photos
Your engagement session is a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera and use the photos for save-the-dates, a wedding website, or decor.
13. Book Transportation & Accommodations
If needed, book transportation for the wedding party and guests, and block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests.
14. Plan Your Honeymoon
If you’re going on a honeymoon right after the wedding, now’s the time to book flights and accommodations.
1-3 Months Before:
The Final Countdown!
15. Obtain Your Marriage License
This varies by location, but in most places, you need to apply 30-60 days before the wedding.
16. Final Dress Fittings & Attire Prep
Make sure your dress fits perfectly, and don’t forget to steam your gown and bridesmaid dresses the night before! (Check out my blog on Wedding Day Tips for more must-know prep tips!)
17. Finalize Your Wedding Timeline & Shot List
Work with your photographer to create a wedding day timeline, plan family portraits, and discuss any must-have shots.
2 Weeks Before:
The Finishing Touches
18. Confirm Details with Vendors
Touch base with all your vendors, confirm arrival times, and send out your finalized timeline.
19. Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Wear your wedding shoes around the house to avoid blisters on the big day!
20. Clean Your Rings
Your hands will be in a lot of photos—make sure your rings sparkle!
Wedding Week:
Enjoy the Moment!
21. Pack Your Wedding Day Essentials
This includes your dress, accessories, rings, emergency kit, and anything you’ll need for getting ready.
22. Get Plenty of Rest & Hydrate
Weddings can be exhausting, so take care of yourself leading up to the big day!
23. Have Fun & Trust Your Vendors!
You’ve done all the planning—now it’s time to soak it all in and enjoy your special day!
Final Thoughts
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but taking it step by step makes the process so much easier. Remember, as a wedding photographer, I’m here to do more than just capture your memories—I’m here to guide you through the process and make your day stress-free!
If you’re looking for an experienced photographer who will help make your wedding day effortless and beautiful, I’d love to chat!
