Wedding Planning Checklist: What to Do & When to Do It
Wedding Planning Checklist: What to Do & When to Do It
Because planning a wedding shouldn’t feel like a full-time job (unless you're me!).
So, you’re engaged—cue the happy tears, ring selfies, and a flood of “when’s the date?” texts. First off: congratulations! Whether your dream wedding is an elegant ballroom bash or a cozy backyard celebration, planning it all can feel like juggling confetti in a windstorm.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all at once.
The better news? I’ve built a month-by-month wedding planning checklist to guide you through what to do and when—without the overwhelm.
As a certified wedding planner at Hansen Weddings and Events, I’ve walked couples through every season and scenario. This step-by-step checklist is exactly what I give my clients to keep everything on track and stress in check.
Let’s dive in!
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Lay the foundation for your dream day.
Celebrate your engagement (you deserve it!)
Discuss budget and who’s contributing
Create a guest list draft (rough headcount)
Choose your wedding date and season
Hire a wedding planner (hi, it’s me 👋)
Book your venue(s) – ceremony + reception
Decide on your wedding style/theme
Start browsing dresses and inspiration
Book photographer & videographer
Book caterer (if not included with venue)
Pro Tip: Popular venues and photographers book out 12–18 months in advance—don’t wait!
9–11 Months Before
Start booking core vendors and dress shopping.
Buy your wedding dress (fittings will take time)
Book DJ or live band
Hire florist
Secure hair and makeup artist
Set up your wedding website
Schedule engagement photos
Register for gifts
Send save-the-dates (especially for destination weddings)
Book hotel blocks for guests
Consider a guest experience: welcome bags, weekend itinerary, etc.
Pro Tip: Choose vendors whose personalities you click with. You’ll be working closely with them!
6–8 Months Before
Time to get into the details.
Order bridesmaid dresses and suits
Plan and book honeymoon
Choose cake/dessert baker
Finalize guest list
Plan ceremony details (readings, rituals, etc.)
Schedule menu tastings
Reserve rentals (tables, chairs, linens, etc.)
Purchase wedding shoes and accessories
Design your wedding stationery suite
Begin DIY projects (signage, favors, etc.)
Pro Tip: Keep DIY projects realistic. Don’t take on more than you can actually finish.
4–5 Months Before
Confirm the flow of your day and make it beautiful.
Finalize ceremony outline with officiant
Order invitations
Schedule hair/makeup trial
Meet with florist for design mockups
Plan ceremony music
Arrange transportation
Order wedding bands
Purchase gifts for wedding party
Finalize honeymoon itinerary + passports
Pro Tip: Think through your rain plan (if outdoors) now—not the week of.
2–3 Months Before
Lock in the logistics and get excited.
Mail invitations (at 8–10 weeks out)
Create wedding day timeline
Meet with DJ to finalize playlist & “do not play” list
Write vows (if personalizing them)
Start seating chart draft
Final dress fitting
Confirm vendor arrival times & final payments
Plan bachelor/bachelorette parties
Order thank-you cards
Pro Tip: Add buffer time into your day-of timeline. Things always take longer than expected.
1 Month Before
It’s almost here! Let’s fine-tune everything.
Apply for marriage license
Confirm final headcount with caterer
Finalize seating chart
Print programs, menus, and signage
Break in your wedding shoes
Final hair/skin/nail appointments
Confirm all vendor details + send timeline
Pack your emergency kit
Assemble welcome bags (if offering)
Pro Tip: Make an “exit plan” for your personal items—who’s taking your gifts, cards, leftover cake, etc.
1 Week Before
Get ready to celebrate!
Pick up dress & accessories
Give final guest count to vendors
Prep tip envelopes for vendors
Delegate day-of tasks to trusted people
Practice your vows & speeches
Have a rehearsal + rehearsal dinner
Pack for wedding night/honeymoon
Relax. Breathe. Soak it all in.
Pro Tip: Schedule alone time with your partner during the day. Even 10 minutes together can be magic.
Bonus: After the Wedding
Return rentals
Send thank-you cards
Leave vendor reviews
Preserve bouquet or gown
Change your name (if applicable)
Relive the best day of your life
Final Thoughts From Your Wedding Planner
No matter how big or small your celebration is, being organized makes a world of difference. Whether you're months out or just getting started, this checklist can keep you focused on what matters most—celebrating your love.
Need someone to handle the nitty-gritty so you can enjoy the fun parts? That’s what I’m here for. From timeline creation to full wedding management, Hansen Weddings and Events offers packages designed for your pace, your vibe, and your dream day.
Let’s plan a wedding that feels like you—stress-free, seamless, and absolutely unforgettable.