Planning a wedding is an exciting and often overwhelming journey. From selecting the perfect venue to finalizing the guest list, every detail plays a crucial role in creating your dream day. To help you navigate this beautiful chaos, we’ve created a comprehensive month-by-month wedding planning timeline. This guide will ensure you’re organized, on schedule, and stress-free as you approach your big day.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding
1. Set Your Budget
Discuss finances and determine a realistic budget.
Allocate funds to different aspects like venue, catering, attire, and entertainment.
If you need help, see our blog on how Crescent Moon Events can help with budgeting
2. Start a Wedding Planner/Folder/Pinterest
Collect inspiration, make lists, and keep track of all your plans.
Utilize apps like Pinterest or physical planners to stay organized.
3. Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional)
If your budget allows, consider hiring Crescent Moon Events to ease the planning process.
4. Choose Your Wedding Date
Select a date that works for you and your closest family members.
Consider the season, holidays, and any significant dates.
5. Book Your Venue
Visit potential venues and book the one that fits your vision and budget.
If you are looking for inspiration, read our blog post on unique venue ideas!
6. Compile a Guest List
Draft a preliminary guest list to get an idea of the number of attendees.
9-11 Months Before the Wedding
7. Book Key Vendors
Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment.
Research and meet with potential vendors before making final decisions.
8. Choose Your Wedding Party
Ask friends and family to be part of your special day.
9. Shop for Wedding Attire
Start looking for your wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, and groomsmen attire.
Schedule fittings and alterations in advance.
10. Send Save-the-Dates
Once your guest list is finalized, send out save-the-date cards.
11. Create a Wedding Website
Provide guests with all the necessary information about the event.
When you book with Crescent Moon Events we will help craft your wedding website!
6-8 Months Before the Wedding
2. Register for Gifts
Set up your wedding registry at your favorite stores or online.
13. Plan Your Honeymoon
Decide on a destination, book flights, accommodations, and activities.
14. Book Transportation
Arrange for transportation for you and your guests on the wedding day.
15. Start Planning the Ceremony
Meet with your officiant to discuss the ceremony structure and vows.
16. Finalize Guest List
Confirm addresses and finalize the number of guests.
4-5 Months Before the Wedding
17. Order Invitations
Choose and order your wedding invitations, making sure they match your theme.
18. Plan the Rehearsal Dinner
Decide on a venue and guest list for the rehearsal dinner.
19. Finalize Wedding Attire
Ensure all wedding attire is ordered and schedule final fittings.
20. Book Hair and Makeup Artists
Schedule trials and book your beauty team for the wedding day.
21. Choose Wedding Rings
Select and purchase your wedding bands.
2-3 Months Before the Wedding
22. Send Out Invitations
Mail your wedding invitations and set an RSVP deadline.
23. Plan Seating Arrangements
Start arranging seating for your reception.
When you book with Crescent Moon Events we help with the seating arrangements!
24. Finalize Menu and Cake
Confirm your catering menu and cake details with your vendors.
25. Write Your Vows
If writing personal vows, start drafting and practicing them.
26. Confirm Details with Vendors
Go over final details with all your vendors to ensure everything is in place.
1 Month Before the Wedding
27. Apply for a Marriage License
Check the requirements in your area and apply for your marriage license.
28. Confirm RSVP List
Reach out to guests who haven’t responded.
29. Create a Wedding Day Timeline
Draft a detailed schedule for the wedding day and share it with your vendors and wedding party.
30. Final Dress Fitting
Have your final dress fitting and ensure all alterations are complete.
1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding
31. Finalize Seating Chart
Make any last-minute changes to your seating arrangements.
32. Pack for the Honeymoon
Prepare and pack your bags for the honeymoon.
33. Pick Up Attire
Collect all wedding attire, including dresses, suits, and accessories.
34. Confirm Details with Vendors Again
Double-check all arrangements with your vendors.
35. Relax and Rehearse
Attend the rehearsal and enjoy the rehearsal dinner. Take some time to relax and de-stress.
The Day Before the Wedding
36. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Ensure you’re well-rested for your big day.
37. Prepare Emergency Kit
Include items like safety pins, makeup touch-up kits, and any other essentials you might need.
Crescent Moon Event couples get this taken care of, we come with a fully stocked Emergency Kit!
38. Confirm Payments and Tips
Prepare payments and tips for your vendors.
The Wedding Day
39. Stay Calm and Enjoy
Take a deep breath, stay present, and enjoy every moment of your special day.
40. Delegate Tasks
Assign someone to handle any last-minute issues that may arise.
Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love and commitment. While planning can be stressful, keeping this timeline handy will help ensure that everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: marrying the love of your life. Happy planning!
