12 Months of Wedding Planning

The big question has finally been asked and the answer has been given. Just one year to go until your wedding day.

Planning a wedding can be a demanding and emotionally draining experience, but it need not be. Organization is the key to making your wedding preparations an exciting and memorable experience.

The best thing to do is to sit down with your spouse-to-be and write out a carefully thought out 12-month plan.

(Month 12) Out of town family and friends would appreciate lots of notice to book travel arrangements and time off from work to attend your wedding. This is the best time to let the world know about the engagement and wedding date.

(Month 11) Work out the type of wedding you would like. For instance the setting, and how many guests you would like to have. Book a wedding site early. Be sure to check it out thoroughly and ensure that it has the proper amenities and size to meet your wedding day requirements. If your respective families have never met, this would be a good time to arrange a meeting and talk about the wedding budget. Come to an agreement concerning who will pay for what. Start on your guest list. You don’t want to forget anyone, so give you lots of time.

(Month 10) Choosing a wedding gown often takes much searching and many fittings. This is a good time to begin looking. Some time in this month you should try and put your order in for your gown. At the same time decide on your bridal party and what color scheme you will use.

(Month 9) Talk to all the people you will need to be present on your wedding day to make it a success. The videographer, photographer, local florist, caterers, and a DJ or Musicians, whatever you decide on for entertainment. Also, be sure all your guests will have a place to stay. Find accommodations for them that will be handy to all the wedding functions.

(Month GET A PASSPORT! If you don’t have one, remember that it takes time. This is also the time to plan and book your honeymoon plans. Make the final decision on the bridal party gowns and put your order in.

(Month 7) Purchase all the necessary stationery you will need. For instance, invitations, thank you cards and envelopes for gratuities. Be sure register for wedding gifts at the stores you have selected. This might also include online sites as well.

(Month 6) Confirm the wedding date with all your out of town guests. Be sure your guest list is complete. Begin the search for your wedding cake.

(Month 5) Reserve the wedding suits etc. for the men who will be in your wedding party. Be sure you are aware of the wedding license requirements for your area. The county clerk will have this information.

(Month 4) Be sure you have made the final decision on the dinner menu and confirm it with the caterer. If the liquor is separate from the catering service, be sure to put your order in.

(Month 3) Make the final decision for your flowers including the reception hall. Send your out-of-town guests a list of accommodations you have searched out for them. Order rings, wedding favors, and begin to work on your wedding vows. This is especially important if you are creating your own.

(Month 2) Put the final touches are put on your honeymoon plans. Confirm all reservations. This is the time to mail out wedding invitations. Make sure all your wedding day beauty appointments are in place. Don’t forget to do the name change paperwork. Make the final decision on your play list with DJ or Musicians. Be sure you have a contact number for them. Be sure you have ordered the wedding cake. Decide what you would like to do for a rehearsal dinner.

(ONE MONTH TO GO!) Confirm that all rental items are taken care of if there is something the reception hall does not supply. For instance, extra chairs or additional lighting. Decide on, and purchase the wedding party gifts. Do a final fitting for the wedding dress, complete with all the accessories. Don’t forget the small details. A guest book, pens, pillow for the ring, and any other unique incidentals you might require for your service or reception.

(Last 10 days) Be sure you have the wedding license. Contact guests if you have not heard from them and confirm with the caterer what the final guest number will be. Pick up the wedding rings.

(Final week) Are you all packed for your honeymoon? This is the right time for an attendants party. Give them your thanks and their gifts. Be sure all final payments to your wedding vendors are made. Prepare gratuity envelopes.

(Final Day) Time to get relaxed. Do whatever it takes to relieve any stress you may be feeling. It might be a massage, a swim, or a long walk. Whatever works for you. Your out-of-town guests will be arriving. Be sure to greet them and provide transportation for them if necessary. Time for the rehearsal. Go to bed early.

(The big day!) Be sure to be up early and have a nourishing breakfast. Attend your final beauty appointments. Leave lots of time to visit and prepare for the ceremony with your bridesmaids.

Enjoy a well-planned, exciting wedding day that you will remember forever!