Timetable–At–A–Glance
6-12 MONTHS
Set a budget and discuss the sharing of expenses
Decide on the type of wedding (formal, semi-formal, informal; and season).
Choose a ceremony site
Select a wedding consultant
Decide on wedding theme
CEREMONY DETAILS
Book officiant and discuss alternative dates
Decide size of wedding party and choose attendants (including ushers)
Shop for dress and accessories
Compile bride’s and groom’s guest lists
Decide on florist and flowers
RECEPTION DETAILS
Select and book photographer
Book florist
Have engagement photos taken
Mail Save-the-Date cards
Book entertainment
Select music for ceremony & reception
Book caterer
Book videographer
Choose bakery
Select wedding and groom’s cake
4-6 MONTHS
Select men’s formal wear
Make honeymoon plans
Register for gifts at one or two stores
Choose favors and order invitations, personal stationery, programs, napkins, etc
Reserve rental items: candelabra, arches, canopy, linens, etc
Purchase wedding rings; order engraving.
Reserve limousine, carriage, trolley or coach transportation.
Book a room for wedding night.
Sign up for dance lessons (if desired)
Make honeymoon plans and reservations.
2-4 MONTHS
Arrange rehearsal dinner
Address wedding invitations
Discuss details of menu with caterer
Discuss service with officiant
Choose readings for ceremony
Write wedding vows, if you choose
Review floral arrangements and review the final order
Buy attendants’ gifts and gifts for each other
Experiment with makeup and hairstyles
Acquire name change forms, if taking your fiancés name
1-2 MONTHS
Mail invitations four to six weeks prior to wedding.
Call contracted services to confirm arrangements.
Final dress fitting with shoes and accessories
Select ceremony accessories — unity candle, ring pillow, guest book, etc.
Have programs printed.
Begin seating plan and write or order place cards.
Buy marriage license and request certified copies.
Send wedding announcement to local newspapers.
2 WEEKS
Schedule appointments for hair stylist, facial, manicure, massage
Invite wedding party and guests to rehearsal dinner
Review reception seating and order place cards
Record gifts as you receive them. Write thank-you notes accordingly
Arrange for gown cleaning and bouquet preservation after wedding
Give final guest count to reception facility and caterer
Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception
Break in wedding shoes at home
1 WEEK
Finalize seating plan
Pick up wedding rings, check engravings and sizes
Final consultations: caterer, florist, musicians, photographer, videographer
Make a wedding day schedule and give everyone copies
Pick up dress
Give your honeymoon itinerary to a friend or family member in case of emergency
1 DAY
Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding
Have a manicure and a pedicure
Attend ceremony and rehearsal dinner
Distribute gifts to the wedding party, special attendants and parents, to thank them for their support
Prepare tip and payment envelops for officiant and vendors and make arrangement for someone to distribute them
Keep personal appointments; finish honeymoon packing
