UltimateWeddingTo-DoList– 10–
12+ Months OutHire a planner or directorWith your budget in mind, decide what youwill do yourself and what you’ll need professional(or familial) help with, including whowill help things run smoothly the day of thewedding.Pick a date and timeSit down with your fiancé and discuss yourwedding date, taking into account thelength of your engagement, ideal time ofyear, time off from work, etc.Plan your budgetMap out a detailed budget with large itemslike venues, catering, gown cost, andentertainment. Decide who will covercertain costs (bride or groom’s family).Start planning the guest listDraft a guest list with the family membersand friends you will be inviting to thewedding. Ask your family members tohelp with this!Choose your wedding partyDecide who will be at your side on your bigday, and make them feel special when youask them by presenting a heartfelt gift.Reserve venuesSchedule tours with your top picks forceremony and reception venues, keepingyour estimated guest count and budgetin mind.Insure your engagement ringResearch insurance options and choose onethat gives you peace of mind.Decide on a wedding styleand color schemeBrowse online for inspiration and choosea style and color palette that best fits yourday, keeping the venue and time of yearin mind.Begin looking for a dressSearch for a dress that makes you feelcomfortable and beautiful.8 Months OutOrder dress and accessoriesThis will allow time for alterations, as wellas time for any accessories (veil, shoes, etc.)to be shipped, if necessary.Book caterer, photographer,videographer, florist andentertainmentResearch reviews and websites and askfor referrals to find vendors that best fityour style and budget.Take engagement photosKeep in mind that many photographersoffer engagement/wedding packages, andmay offer discounts if you book them aheadof time for your wedding. These photos canbe used for save the dates and for yourwedding website, if you choose that route!Reserve additional rentalsEnsure your wedding has the necessitiessuch as tents, tables, chairs, outdoorbathrooms, lighting, and linens.Register for wedding giftsSelect gifts you and your fiancé want andneed to begin your life together!Send save the date cardsAllow your guests time to makearrangements to attend your big day witha save the date card.Launch a wedding websiteDesign a wedding website and includeceremony/reception addresses, registry info,lodging, engagement photos, etc.6 Months OutFinalize your food andbar menuTaste the top choices from your caterer andpick options that will satisfy your guests andstay within your budget.Decide on ceremony detailsDiscuss important ceremony details withyour fiancé, such as traditions and vows.Select and order attirefor wedding attendantsPulling from your wedding color palette andstyle, decide on bridesmaids and flower girldresses that everyone feels comfortable in,and clearly communicate ordering details.Reserve hotel rooms forout of town family/attendantsReserve a block of rooms in a hotel ofyour choice, and share this option withtraveling guests.Discuss honeymoon plansResearch ideas and options for yourromantic getaway, and don’t forget toupdate your passport, if necessary!– 11–