What should I include in a wedding planning checklist?

Planning a wedding is a big project, so breaking it down into phases helps keep things manageable. Here is a foundational checklist to get you started:

12+ Months Out: The Foundations

• Set the Budget: Determine your total spend and how much you are comfortable allocating to each category.
• Draft the Guest List: You don't need final numbers yet, but you need a rough head count to choose a venue.
• Pick a Date (or range): Keep a few backups in mind.
• Book Key Vendors: Start with the venue, as this dictates the date and size of your wedding.
• Hire a Planner: If you choose to use one, bring them on early to help with vendor scouting.

8–10 Months Out: The Big Details

• Wedding Attire: Start shopping for your dress or suit, as alterations and shipping can take months.
• Book Priority Vendors: Photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment (DJ or band).
• Wedding Party: Formally ask your bridesmaids, groomsmen, or honor attendants.
• Hotel Blocks: Secure blocks for out-of-town guests.

6 Months Out: Refining

• Send Save-the-Dates: Essential if you have many guests traveling.
• Book Smaller Vendors: Florist, officiant, ceremony musicians, and transportation.
• Order Invitations: Research designs and finalize your stationer.
• Plan the Honeymoon: Ensure passports are valid and book your flights/hotels.

3–4 Months Out: Finalizing

• Send Invitations: Give guests time to RSVP.
• Menu Tasting: Finalize the food and drink selections.
• Order the Cake: Confirm flavors and design.
• Attire Fittings: Begin your first round of alterations.
• Wedding Rings: Purchase them and ensure they are sized correctly.

1–2 Months Out: The Polish

• Track RSVPs: Follow up with anyone who hasn't responded.
• Finalize Seating Chart: This is often the most time-consuming task.
• Review Timeline: Confirm the minute-by-minute schedule with your vendors.
• Write Vows: If you are writing your own, start drafting them now.

The Final Week

• Final Payments: Ensure all vendors are paid.
• Final Head Count: Give the final numbers to your caterer and venue.
• Delegate Tasks: Give family members or the wedding party specific responsibilities (e.g., holding the rings, managing gifts).
• Self-Care: Prioritize sleep and hydration—you want to feel your best on the big day!

A few tips for your planning process:

• Prioritize: Decide on your "non-negotiables" (e.g., great food, a live band) and spend more of your budget there.
• Stay Organized: Whether it's a digital spreadsheet or a physical binder, keep all contracts and receipts in one place.
• Take Breaks: Don't talk about the wedding 24/7; make time for "date nights" where wedding talk is off-limits.

Would you like me to expand on any of these sections, such as how to build a budget or tips for managing the guest list?