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Wedding planning checklist timeline

A month-by-month wedding planning checklist with 37 tasks, from 12 months out to the thank-you notes. Add your wedding date and each step shows the date to finish it by.

  1. 12+ months before

    Set the frame: money, date and size.

    • Set your total budget together
    • Pick a date and rough guest count
    • Book the venue
    • Start the guest list
    • Hire a planner (optional)

  2. 10 to 12 months before

    Book the vendors who fill up first.

    • Book photographer
    • Book caterer
    • Book videographer
    • Choose wedding party

  3. 8 to 10 months before

    Attire, music and flowers.

    • Shop for the dress
    • Book DJ or band
    • Book florist
    • Create a registry
    • Send save the dates

  4. 6 to 8 months before

    The ceremony and the trip after it.

    • Book officiant
    • Plan the honeymoon
    • Book hair & makeup
    • Order the cake tasting

  5. 4 to 6 months before

    Paper, rings and getting around.

    • Order invitations
    • Buy wedding bands
    • Book transportation
    • Choose bridesmaid dresses

  6. 2 to 4 months before

    Invitations go out.

    • Mail invitations
    • Dress fittings
    • Plan rehearsal dinner
    • Buy favors and gifts

  7. 1 month before

    Numbers are final.

    • Final head count to caterer
    • Seating chart
    • Get the marriage license
    • Confirm every vendor

  8. 1 to 2 weeks before

    Pay, pack and relax.

    • Pay final balances
    • Pack for the honeymoon
    • Final dress fitting
    • Prepare vendor tips

  9. After the wedding

    Wrap up.

    • Send thank-you notes
    • Change your name (if you want)
    • Preserve the dress

Keep the checklist with your budget

The Wedding Budget Planner and the Wedding Planner App both include this checklist with target dates counted back from your wedding day, next to your budget, vendors and guests.