HometownBride web

12+ Months Out
Hire a planner or director
With your budget in mind, decide what you
will do yourself and what you’ll need professional
(or familial) help with, including who
will help things run smoothly the day of the
wedding.
Pick a date and time
Sit down with your fiancé and discuss your
wedding date, taking into account the
length of your engagement, ideal time of
year, time off from work, etc.
Plan your budget
Map out a detailed budget with large items
like venues, catering, gown cost, and
entertainment. Decide who will cover
certain costs (bride or groom’s family).
Start planning the guest list
Draft a guest list with the family members
and friends you will be inviting to the
wedding. Ask your family members to
help with this!
Choose your wedding party
Decide who will be at your side on your big
day, and make them feel special when you
ask them by presenting a heartfelt gift.
Reserve venues
Schedule tours with your top picks for
ceremony and reception venues, keeping
your estimated guest count and budget
in mind.
Insure your engagement ring
Research insurance options and choose one
that gives you peace of mind.
Decide on a wedding style
and color scheme
Browse online for inspiration and choose
a style and color palette that best fits your
day, keeping the venue and time of year
in mind.
Begin looking for a dress
Search for a dress that makes you feel
comfortable and beautiful.
8 Months Out
Order dress and accessories
This will allow time for alterations, as well
as time for any accessories (veil, shoes, etc.)
to be shipped, if necessary.
Book caterer, photographer,
videographer, florist and
entertainment
Research reviews and websites and ask
for referrals to find vendors that best fit
your style and budget.
Take engagement photos
Keep in mind that many photographers
offer engagement/wedding packages, and
may offer discounts if you book them ahead
of time for your wedding. These photos can
be used for save the dates and for your
wedding website, if you choose that route!
Reserve additional rentals
Ensure your wedding has the necessities
such as tents, tables, chairs, outdoor
bathrooms, lighting, and linens.
Register for wedding gifts
Select gifts you and your fiancé want and
need to begin your life together!
Send save the date cards
Allow your guests time to make
arrangements to attend your big day with
a save the date card.
Launch a wedding website
Design a wedding website and include
ceremony/reception addresses, registry info,
lodging, engagement photos, etc.
6 Months Out
Finalize your food and
bar menu
Taste the top choices from your caterer and
pick options that will satisfy your guests and
stay within your budget.
Decide on ceremony details
Discuss important ceremony details with
your fiancé, such as traditions and vows.
Select and order attire
for wedding attendants
Pulling from your wedding color palette and
style, decide on bridesmaids and flower girl
dresses that everyone feels comfortable in,
and clearly communicate ordering details.
Reserve hotel rooms for
out of town family/attendants
Reserve a block of rooms in a hotel of
your choice, and share this option with
traveling guests.
Discuss honeymoon plans
Research ideas and options for your
romantic getaway, and don’t forget to
update your passport, if necessary!
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