A wedding planning checklist—or, an in-depth inventory of tasks to complete before your nuptials—is the first thing you should do after agreeing to say I do. (Well, call your parents and bask in the immediate bliss of being betrothed. But then.
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) Sure, the action items may seem obvious at first. A venue needs to be locked down early. Sending save-the-dates six months in advance is common knowledge.
Yet, do you know when you should get an officiant? Lock down a band? Finalize your seating plan? Unless you’re in the wedding industry, the answer is probably not. So, asked top event planner for a month-by-month, step-by-step checklist of everything you need to do before your wedding day. Below, find her ultimate to-dos for brides and grooms-to-be.
9-12 months out “A lot happens in the first three months—it is time to lay the foundation, build a trusted team, and commit to your vendors that are only able to take on one wedding in a weekend,” says Cole. “This will help you navigate the critical first decisions efficiently and with narrowed boundaries,” says Cole. “Hiring a planner before committing to your venue and guest list can be invaluable.
The planner will offer helpful guidance on cost commitments associated with your favorite venues and help you think through the pros and cons of your headcount as it relates to the type of ceremony and party you would like to throw,” she says. “If you are doing a tented event, be prepared to put significant deposits.