Planning a wedding can be an exciting but stressful time. Several factors will influence what type of wedding you will have, but the following is a handy checklist of important details to attend to.
First things first:
insure your engagement ring
consider having an engagement party
work out a big day budget and savings plan and decide who is contributing to the wedding
think about where and when you’d like to get married
decide on a wedding theme & style
decide if you will have a civil or religious ceremony and arrange the church or celebrant
write draft guest list
research venues, photographers, caterers and wedding dresses and obtain quotes
decide if you will have a wedding party
consider sending save-the-dates
Six months to go:
Photo: Kelk Photographyarrange meetings and get quotes from florists and stylists
shortlist invitations you like and get quotes
start thinking about cakes and keep cuttings of ones you like
order your wedding gown (some designers will need at least six months to make it)
start looking for accessories to match
start looking at wedding bands
book reception venue
book caterer and any necessary hire companies
choose an MC for the reception
arrange transport for the bridal party
research music options and book
plan and book your honeymoon
start thinking about photo spots and collect images you’d like to show your photographer
Three months to go:
think about vows you’d like to take, or if you’ll write your own
buy bridesmaid dresses and decide on accessories
buy or arrange hire of groom and groomsmen outfits
select a wedding gift registry and get all information you need for your invitations
finalise the guest list
send out invitations
choose florist
choose cake-maker
start any DIY projects for decorations
book any wedding night accommodation
Six weeks to go:
apply at district court for a marriage licence
finalise readings and ceremony order
choose presents for attendants
select who will be making speeches and let them know
confirm guest numbers & seating plan
finalise menu and beverage details
finalise reception running order
have final dress-fitting
confirm wedding band order and arrange collection
confirm any final RSVPs
make any final adjustments to decorations
purchase or make bombonieres
confirm booking with photographer and finalise details of the day
have hair and make-up trials
wear-in wedding shoes
One week to go:
have a full rehearsal at the ceremony site with all attendants
prepare speeches
pick up any hired items
polish your engagement ring
make sure all your place cards are written
finalise your seating chart
confirm numbers with the caterer
confirm florist delivery times and set up
confirm cake and delivery time
confirm the entertainment and reception timing
confirm transport and timing
check the venue has all the details it needs, including the running order
confirm booking and times with your hair and make-up stylists
