Sample Wedding Planner Checklist

The wedding date approaches faster than expected.

Planning a wedding is a monumental task, and making sure everything gets done before the big day can be stressful. Assigning tasks to your friends and family who are helping you plan will ease some of the stress, but another way to keep your stress level low is to make a checklist. Categorize the checklist according to time before the wedding and make certain each event is completed on time.

9 Months and Up Before

Choose where the wedding and reception are going to take place. Select your wedding date. Many times the popular locations are booked a year or more in advance. Determine how much you can afford to spend for the wedding and keep your budget in mind through the entire planning process. Decide who your officiant is going to be. You may need to meet with him many times until the big day.

8 Months Before

Choose your bridesmaids and groomsmen and ask them to be in your wedding. Create and mail save the date cards if you decide to use them, especially if your wedding is around a popular vacationing time or holiday.

6 to 7 Months Before

Hire the people you want to service your wedding such as a photographer, DJ and caterer. Decide where you want to go on your honeymoon and book the hotel, transportation and any events you plan on participating in. Begin shopping for your wedding dress to allow plenty of time for any necessary alterations.

4 to 5 Months Before

Register for your wedding gifts. Ask your bridesmaids how much they can afford and purchase their dresses accordingly. This also allows them to get the proper alterations. Plan the rehearsal and dinner. Begin sampling wedding cakes and place an order. Decide on the guest list and order the wedding invitations.

2 to 3 Months

Decide on the wedding favors and finalize the menu selections. Order the rings from your jeweler and create or finalize the wedding schedule. Make sure the individuals associated with the wedding have a copy so they know when they are needed at the event. Rent the tuxedos for the groom and his groomsmen. Mail out the invitations.

One Month Before

Get your marriage license since some states specify that you need to have a waiting period or blood tests. Make sure the loose ends are tied up and everything is finalized. Try on your dress again to make sure no further alterations are necessary. Make appointments to get your hair and nails done.

Less Than a Month

Check with your vendors to make sure they are on board and have the date and time of the wedding. Pack your bags for your honeymoon and arrange transportation for the big day.

References

• Real Simple: Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist
• Frugal Bride: Wedding Planning Checklist