Wedding planning timeline list
It may seem overwhelming what things you should book and when, but my handy guide will give some help in the chaos! This is my person opinion on when certain things should be booked/thought about. A lot of wedding suppliers book up years in advance, so if you have someone in mind you really should secure the date sooner than later! There are only so many weekends in a year. Make sure before you do any booking and deposit paying, you do lots of research, and even meeting up and speak to suppliers to make sure they are just the one for you. Making sure you have a budget and stick to it is another important part of it all, keep track and don’t loose sight of what it is all really about, your love for each other.
1+ year to go
Choose a venue. This can be a long process to find the perfect choice for you and your family
Picking a photographer/videographer - we book up years in advance, so it is important to start early!
8-12 months to go
Now I would start to book your cake maker, hair/makeup, florist and DJ/musician and any other supplier you would like if you haven’t already - these also book up way in advance
Choosing a catering company (unless your venue are hosting your food!)
Pick your wedding dress, this can take a good few months!
If needed, sort transport whether it be cars, pre booking taxi’s or you have something a little more unique in mind
Put in place any hen or stag parties to make sure everyone is free
4-6 months to go
I would start looking at mens suits and bridesmaids dresses, as you’re going to need to get these measured and fitted too
Book any honeymoons in advance so you can relax later!
Have your hen and stag do’s
If you are DIY’ing your wedding decor, now is the time to start!
Get your wedding rings all sorted and ready for the day
Arrange legalities with venue or whoever is marrying you both
Under 4 months
Plan your timeline of the day and seating plans, make sure your venue is filled in on this information too!
Final meetings with suppliers and venue to make sure everyone has the same plan for the day
Final dress/suit fittings
Buy any little touches for the day you would like (perfume, cute slippers!)
Grab your bridal party/family presents if you are doing them
Now is the time to have your menu tasting with the venue/catering team
if applicable, have your dress rehersal
Make your packing list for the hotel/wedding
One week to go!
Pack all your bags ready so you can enjoy the night before the wedding
Enjoy all those last minute beauty treatments!
Make sure the bridal party has a timeline of what they need to do and when, so the day runs as smoothly as possible
I hope this list was somewhat beneficial to you! It can all seem a lot to think about, but all your suppliers and venue are there to help make everything as it should be so do not worry. Making lists, having an Excel document and even scrap booking are all helpful. If it is wrote down and out your mind, you will feel so much better! Happy planning! Alex <3
Cheshire View Wedding Venue, Cheshire