The Only Wedding Planning Timeline You’ll Ever Need
The Ultimate No-Stress Wedding Planning Timeline
Planning a wedding is exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also feel like a full-time job. With so many decisions to make (big and small), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, I’ve got you!
I’ve put together a step-by-step wedding planning timeline to help you stay organized, on track, and most importantly, sane. Whether you’re a Type-A planner with a color-coded spreadsheet or more of a “we’ll figure it out as we go” kind of person (like me, this guide will keep things simple and stress-free.
12+ Months Before “I Do”
This is the dreaming and decision-making phase. Start with the big stuff:
✅ Set a budget (not the most fun part, but necessary!)
✅ Draft a guest list so you have an idea of numbers
✅ Pick a wedding date (consider seasons, venue availability, and any sentimental dates)
✅ Book your venue—popular spots fill up fast!
✅ Choose your bridal party and let them know they’ve made the cut
✅ Start researching vendors—photographers (hey, that’s me!), caterers, florists, etc.
Bonus Tip: If you’re thinking about a wedding website, now’s a great time to set it up!
9-12 Months Before “I Do”
The vision starts coming together:
✅ Book your major vendors—photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment
✅ Plan your engagement session (trust me, this is a fun one!)
✅ Order your wedding dress—yes, it takes months to arrive and get altered
✅ Send out save-the-dates (especially if you’re having a destination wedding)
✅ Start bridesmaid dress shopping
Pro Tip: Now’s also a great time to book your hair and makeup artist and do a trial run!
6-9 Months Before “I Do”
Details, details, details:
✅ Finalize floral arrangements
✅ Plan your honeymoon (because after all this planning, you’ll deserve a vacation!)
✅ Book your officiant—kind of a key player in the whole “getting married” thing
✅ Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests
4-6 Months Before “I Do”
It’s getting real! Time to tackle:
✅ Plan your ceremony—music, readings, any special traditions
✅ Purchase wedding bands
✅ Start planning bachelor/bachelorette parties (or drop hints to your bridal party)
✅ Schedule dress fittings—alterations take time!
2-3 Months Before “I Do”
We’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to:
✅ Mail invitations—make sure RSVP details are clear
✅ Write your vows (yes, actually write them down!)
✅ Confirm wedding day details with all vendors
✅ Have a hair and makeup trial
✅ Purchase wedding favors and gifts for your bridal party
✅ Obtain your marriage license (don’t wait until the last minute!)
Don’t Forget: Break in your wedding shoes—blisters are not the vibe.
1 Month Before “I Do”
The final countdown begins:
✅ Pack for your honeymoon
✅ Confirm all final details with vendors
✅ Get a manicure and pedicure—because wedding ring pics!
✅ Hold your ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
✅ Most importantly, take a deep breath and enjoy this time!
Wedding Week!
It’s here!! Final to-dos:
✅ Sleep (seriously, don’t pull an all-nighter before your wedding)
✅ Drink water and take care of yourself
✅ Celebrate—you’re getting married!
Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you break it down into manageable steps. And if you need a photographer to capture every moment of your big day, you know where to find me!
Need the full wedding planning checklist? Download it here.