The Ultimate 12-Month Wedding Planning Guide

10-12 Months Out: Setting the Foundation

This is the brainstorming phase. Grab a glass of champagne, sit down with your partner, and dream about your perfect day. Don't worry about the granular details yet; right now, you need to align on the big picture.

• Determine your budget: This will dictate every other decision you make. Be realistic and pad it by 10-15% for unexpected expenses.
• Draft a guest list: Your venue size and budget rely heavily on this number.
• Choose a date and venue: Venues book up fast, sometimes over a year in advance.
• Hire a wedding planner: If your budget allows, a planner will save you time, stress, and potentially money in the long run.

6-9 Months Out: Booking the Essentials

Now that your venue is secured, it's time to assemble your dream team of vendors. The best photographers, caterers, and bands get snapped up quickly.

• Book major vendors: Photographer, videographer, caterer, and band/DJ.
• Say yes to the dress: Bridal gowns can take 4-6 months to arrive and require multiple fittings.
• Book hotel room blocks: Crucial if you have many out-of-town guests.
• Create your wedding website: Keep your guests informed and collect addresses.

3-5 Months Out: The Fun Details

This is when your wedding design really starts coming together. From tasting cake to choosing flowers, this is usually the most enjoyable part of planning.

• Send save-the-dates: Give your guests plenty of notice, especially for a destination wedding.
• Book the florist: Bring your color palette and Pinterest boards.
• Order wedding rings: Give yourselves time for custom engravings or sizing.
• Plan the honeymoon: Book flights and accommodations while prices are favorable.

1-2 Months Out: Finalizing the Logistics

Crunch time! The final weeks are all about confirming details, making final payments, and creating the logistical master plan.

• Send formal invitations: Usually sent 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
• Create the seating chart: This step is notoriously stressful, but using a drag-and-drop seating layout tool makes it manageable.
• Finalize the timeline: Coordinate with your vendors to assure everyone knows where to be and when.
• Get your marriage license: Check your local laws regarding waiting periods.