The ultimate wedding planning checklist: what you need to know.
As the big day approaches, wedding planning can become overwhelming. To help ensure you have a stress-free planning experience, we've created the ultimate wedding planning checklist.
Set a budget and stick to it. Before you start planning, decide on a budget and make sure you have enough money saved to cover all expenses. This will help you make informed decisions about vendors and avoid overspending. Most of your suppliers will require an upfront deposit to secure their services. The balance will then be due nearer to the big day, ofter six to eight weeks before. Adding this into your budget timing may help allocating what gets paid first.
Choose a date and venue. Once you have a budget, start looking at potential wedding dates and venues. Keep in mind that popular venues and dates book up quickly, so it's best to start looking early.
Hire a wedding planner or coordinator. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the planning process, consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator. They can help you with everything from vendor selection to day-of coordination.
Choose your wedding party. Select your bridesmaids and groomsmen and make sure they are aware of their responsibilities, along with costs if you are asking them to purchase anything.
Select your vendors. Now that you have a date and venue, it's time to start selecting vendors. This includes a caterer, florist, photographer, and DJ or band.
Register for gifts. Create a wedding registry and let your guests know where it is located.
Plan the details. Decide on the details of your wedding, such as the colour scheme, flowers, and wedding favours.
Order your wedding attire. Make sure to order your dress, suits, and accessories well in advance to ensure they are ready in time for the big day.
Send out invitations. Send out your wedding invitations at least six to eight weeks before the wedding. If you wedding is on a week day, or well in advance, you might want to send out save the date cards so people can book time off and plan to attend.
Plan the ceremony. Decide on the details of your ceremony, such as the readings, music, and officiant.
Plan the reception. Decide on the details of your reception, such as the menu, music, and seating arrangements.
Prepare for the honeymoon. Start planning your honeymoon and make sure to take care of any necessary paperwork, such as passport renewals.
Take care of legal requirements. Obtain your marriage license and make sure all necessary paperwork is in order.
Finalise the details. Confirm all details with vendors, wedding party, and guests.
Purchase thank you gifts for parents and the wedding party.
Relax and enjoy your big day. Remember to take a step back and enjoy the planning process, and most importantly, your big day.
By following this checklist, you will be well on your way to planning the wedding of your dreams. Remember to take things one step at a time and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. And, don't forget to enjoy the journey, because before you know it, you'll be walking down the aisle.
