Wedding planning can be very stressful for couples because there are so many details and moving parts to take into consideration. On average, couples start to plan their wedding a year before it takes place. In order to avoid the stress that comes with planning your wedding, follow our timeline that guides brides and grooms through the process.
Between 8 and 12 months, the first things to decide on are the wedding date and based on the date, the wedding venue. If your wedding is in spring, you will probably be more likely to choose an outdoor venue where the flowers are in bloom. During winter, based on whether or not it is cold where you live, you will most likely focus on find a cozy, indoor venue.
Between 7 and 9 months, focus on your guest list. Invitations should be sent at a minimum of 4 months before the wedding so you can collect the number of guests in attendance. Between 7 and 9 months is also when brides should start looking for a wedding dress and grooms should look for their suits. Give yourself time to find the perfect outfit and have adjustments made.
Around 6 months beforehand is when you should plan the honeymoon. When you plan the trip in advance, typically you are able to get discounts on flights. This is also when you should find your photographer, decor vendor, and entertainment provider.
About 4 months before the wedding, schedule food tastings with various caterers and bakers and have them booked 3 months beforehand. This is also when you should book a hair and makeup stylist and try out different styles to find the perfect one for you. Three months before the wedding is also when you should begin finalizing wedding details such as a seating chart, breaking in your wedding shoes, obtaining a marriage license, etc.
Tip: Don’t save anything for the last minute. Though it is hard to avoid procrastination, it will save you so much stress to knock everything out sooner rather than later.