Monthly Wedding Planning Guide

Planning a wedding is an exciting time and it is possible to lose track of where you are with it all. We have put together a monthly guide to help you organise your big day – we hope that it helps!

Straight Away!
  • Tell relatives and friends that you are getting married!
  • Decide on the type of ceremony and reception that you would like – get wedding ideas.
  • Search for a wedding venue.
  • Set your budget and talk to family about contributions and who is doing what.
  • Decide on the number of guests and draw up a list with all sets of parents.
  • Choose a wedding planner.
12-18 months to go!
6-12 months to go!
  • Start looking for a wedding dress.
  • Decide upon your best man and chief bridesmaids.
  • Choose outfits for attendants.
  • Buy your wedding rings.
  • Choose your gift list.
  • Research florists and discuss flower options
  • Confirm your menu and drink choice with the caterer.
  • Order your wedding cake.
  • Book transport to the wedding and reception venues and to your first night accommodation/airport.
  • For Church Weddings – talk to the organist about the music and discuss your choice of readings with the minister.
  • For Civil Ceremonies – ask the registrar what readings and music is permitted.
3-6 months to go!
  • Choose gifts for your attendants.
  • Allow plenty of time to have your passport renewed if you are changing your name.
  • Send out your invitations
  • Finalise order of service.
  • Order table favours.
1-3 months to go!
  • Research and trial hairdressers and make up artists.
  • Hire a hairdresser/make up artist.
  • Buy accessories such as veil, tiara, lingerie and shoes.
  • Have orders of service printed.
  • Confirm final numbers of guests with caterer.
  • Check groom, best man and father of the bride have all written speeches.
  • Organise the seating plans.
  • Arrange a rehearsal at church/venue.
  • Let your hair down and enjoy your Stag weekend and Hen party. For great ideas visit www.lastnightoffreedom.co.uk.
1 week to go!
  • Confirm all reception arrangements.
  • Call all bookings, e.g. photographer, and confirm times and details.
  • Pick up dress or have it delivered.
  • Wear in the wedding shoes at home.
  • Pack for the honeymoon/first night.
  • Have a final hair and make up practice.
  • Enjoy a Spa day.
  • Finalise delivery of items to the venue, e.g. flowers and cake.
1 day to go!
  • Have a manicure and pedicure.
  • Decorate venue if needed.
  • RELAX and try to get an early night!