Planning a wedding

January 28, 2018January 26, 2018 Tex Appeal staff Wedding timeline

9 to 12 months before

Set an initial budget
Secure wedding date and time
Consider type of wedding (day/night, indoor/outdoor, formal/casual
Research and select ceremony location
Select reception location
Select music: for ceremony and for reception
Select caterer
Select florist
Consider printed materials: save the dates, invitations, etc.
Confirm officiate at the ceremony
Set aside blocks of hotel/motel rooms for out of town guests
Book photographer
Book videographer
Consider other entertainment

6 to 9 months before

Select wedding cake vendor
Consider rehearsal dinner or other events
Book transportation
Order invitations

4 to 6 months before

Prepare guest list for addressing invitations
Select and order the invitations and stationery
Confirm vendors
Order personalized items: cake cutter, topper, guest book, all accessories
Hire the limousine or other transportation

2 to 4 months before

Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer
Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception
Set the dates and times with the officiate for the rehearsal
Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties
Design and print the wedding program for the ceremony
Finalize the florist details, photographer, videographer, musicians, etc.
Plan a rehearsal dinner
Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker

6 to 8 weeks before

Mail invitations and announcements
Coordinate portrait sitting with photographer for the newspaper

4 to 6 weeks before

Decide on menu for reception and estimate guest count
Confirm florist details and delivery times
Print out place cards and plan the seating for the reception
Iron out details for ceremony and reception line-up
Select music for ceremony, first dance, parent dances, and party

2 to 4 weeks before

Monitor arrival of ordered items
Confirm vendors
Order permits or licensing where needed

1 week before

Review any seating details and finalize seating arrangements
Confirm all vendors
Delegate responsibilities to individuals for wedding day

TIP: If you are planning a wedding on a shorter time frame, adjust the suggested tasks accordingly.