The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: 12 Months to the Perfect Day
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the overly organized type or a laid-back planner. But with the right steps, timelines, and a clear plan, you can turn what might seem like a daunting process into a fun and exciting journey. At A.R. Davis Media, we’ve created this 12-month wedding planning timeline to help newly engaged couples stay organized and stress-free while planning their perfect day.
From booking your dream vendors to nailing down the tiny details, this checklist has everything you need to make wedding planning smooth and enjoyable. And if you need help along the way, our sister companies—First Class Catering, First Class Designs, and Wedding Content Co.—are here to provide top-notch services for your special day.
Things to Do Right After You Get Engaged
Decide on Your Wedding Vision and Aesthetic
Think about your dream wedding. Is it rustic, modern, or something totally unique? Having a clear vision will guide every decision moving forward.Confirm Your Budget
Sit down with your partner and family to establish your wedding budget. Knowing your financial limits early on will avoid stress later.
Pro Tip: Apply for a wedding travel credit card to keep all wedding expenses in one place and earn points for your honeymoon!Celebrate Your Engagement
Before diving into planning, take a moment to enjoy this milestone with your partner. Engagement photos are a great way to celebrate and document this exciting time. If you’re ready to schedule yours, contact A.R. Davis Media today to capture stunning memories.
10-12 Months Out
Create a Draft Guest List
Finalize your list early to know how many save-the-dates and invitations you’ll need.Set Your Wedding Date and Choose a Venue
Venues book quickly, so tour a few and lock in your favorite as soon as possible.Book Your Wedding Photographer
Photographers often book a year in advance, so secure your date now. Want engagement photos with the same photographer? That’s another reason to book early with A.R. Davis Media!Schedule Tastings with Caterers and Bakers
Our sister company, First Class Catering, can help craft a menu that perfectly fits your wedding style and taste.Design and Print Save-the-Dates
Custom designs? Consider First Class Designs to create unique designs for your save-the-dates, invitations, and other print items.Set Up a Hotel Block
Choose a convenient location for out-of-town guests and lock in a block of rooms.Hire a Wedding Planner or Coordinator
For full-service planning, floral design, and event coordination, contact First Class Designs to ensure every detail is flawless.
8-10 Months Out
Book Your Entertainment
Whether it’s a live band or DJ, secure your music vendor to keep the party going.Purchase Wedding Rings
Take time to shop around and get them sized early to avoid last-minute stress.Plan Pre-Wedding Events
Start organizing rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, and bachelor/bachelorette trips.Create a Wedding Website
Include important details like your registry, hotel info, and RSVP options.Interested in a wedding content creator? Contact Wedding Content Co to capture every moment of your wedding perfectly!
6-8 Months Out
Plan Wedding Party Attire
Let bridesmaids and groomsmen know what they’ll need to wear and allow time for fittings.Finalize Vendors
Ensure contracts are signed for caterers, florists, and any other remaining vendors. Need beautiful floral arrangements? Check out First Class Designs for custom floral and event design.Send Out Save-the-Dates
These should go out closer to the 7-8 month mark.Book Hair and Makeup Trials
Try out your wedding day look with professional stylists and artists.
4-5 Months Out
This is often a quieter time in the planning process. Use it to:
Finalize your honeymoon details (renew passports if needed!).
Plan bachelor/bachelorette trips.
Think about child and pet care for the wedding weekend.
2-3 Months Out
Schedule Outfit Fittings
Make sure all wedding attire fits perfectly.Send Out Invitations
Give guests plenty of time to RSVP, especially if they’re mailing responses.Meet with Key Vendors
Discuss the ceremony schedule with your officiant, and plan the reception flow with your DJ or band.Finalize Songs and Seating Chart
Choose first dance, entrance, and cake-cutting songs. Begin arranging the seating chart as RSVPs roll in.
1 Month Out
Obtain Your Marriage License
Visit your local courthouse and complete this step!Create a Wedding Weekend Timeline
Work with your planner (or DIY) to build a timeline and share it with your vendors.Design and Order Thank-You Cards
You’ll want these ready to go post-wedding.
2 Weeks Out
Confirm Vendor Details
Ensure every vendor has your timeline and final guest count.Create a Photo Checklist
Work with your photographer to ensure all must-have shots are captured.Pack for Your Wedding Weekend
Include all outfits, essentials, and any extra items you’ll need for the day.
1 Week Out
Double-Check Everything
Go over your checklist, confirm final details, and take a moment to breathe.
Remember, wedding planning should be fun and exciting! If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and reconnect with your partner. And if you’re looking for a team of professionals to make your planning easier, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Partner with A.R. Davis Media and Our Sister Companies
At A.R. Davis Media, we specialize in capturing your love story through stunning photography and videography. Need help with catering, floral design, or planning? Check out our trusted sister companies:
First Class Catering for exceptional wedding menus.
First Class Designs for floral arrangements, event planning, and custom installations.
Wedding Content Co. for unique, personalized wedding content creation.
Contact us today to start planning your dream wedding and make memories that will last a lifetime!