Bride’s Must-Read: Wedding Planning Timeline & Tips

Planning a wedding can be both an exciting and overwhelming journey. From choosing the perfect venue to finding your dream dress, every detail matters in creating a day that reflects your love story. To help you navigate the process with ease, we’ve put together a comprehensive timeline and essential tips to guide you every step of the way.

12+ Months Before the Wedding

1. Set Your Budget:Determine your overall wedding budget and prioritize expenses. This will guide all your decisions moving forward.

2. Create a Guest List:Draft a guest list to estimate the size of your event. Knowing your numbers early helps with venue selection.

3. Choose a Date & Venue:Select a wedding date and secure your venue. Popular locations may book out over a year in advance.

4. Hire Key Vendors:Book your photographer, wedding planner, caterer, and any other high-priority vendors.

5. Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress:Begin the search for your dream gown. Remember that custom designs or alterations may take several months.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

1. Finalize Your Wedding Party:Ask friends and family to join your bridal party.

2. Select Your Theme & Colors:Decide on the style, colors, and overall aesthetic of your wedding.

3. Research and Book Additional Vendors:This includes florists, musicians, and decorators.

4. Plan Engagement Photos:Schedule an engagement shoot to capture this exciting time and potentially use the photos for invitations.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

1. Send Save-the-Dates:Let your guests know to mark their calendars.

2. Plan Your Bridal Look:Choose your accessories, veil, and bridal shoes. Schedule hair and makeup trials to finalize your look.

3. Book the Honeymoon:Secure travel and accommodations for your honeymoon.

4. Finalize the Menu:Work with your caterer to finalize the dishes for your reception.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding

1. Order Invitations:Choose and order your wedding invitations.

2. Schedule Dress Fittings:Have your first fitting to ensure your gown fits perfectly.

3. Confirm All Vendors:Check in with your vendors to review contracts and timelines.

4. Plan Your Timeline:Work with your planner to create a detailed schedule for the wedding day.

1-3 Months Before the Wedding

1. Send Invitations:Mail out your invitations 6-8 weeks before the big day.

2. Apply for a Marriage License:Check your state’s requirements and submit the necessary documents.

3. Write Your Vows:Take some time to write your heartfelt vows.

4. Confirm Guest List:Reach out to guests who haven’t RSVP’d.

1 Month Before the Wedding

1. Final Dress Fitting:Make any last-minute adjustments to your dress.

2. Confirm Final Details:Review timelines and confirm arrangements with all vendors.

3. Pack for the Honeymoon:Prepare everything you’ll need for your post-wedding getaway.

The Wedding Week

1. Pamper Yourself:Schedule spa treatments and get plenty of rest.

2. Prepare Emergency Kits:Include essentials like safety pins, band-aids, and a sewing kit.

3. Rehearse:Hold a rehearsal and enjoy your rehearsal dinner with loved ones.

4. Enjoy the Moment:Relax and soak in every magical moment of your special day.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Wedding Planning Journey

1. Stay Organized: Use a wedding planning app or create a checklist to keep track of tasks.

2. Delegate: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or your planner.

3. Take Breaks: Wedding planning can be stressful—remember to enjoy your engagement!

   
   

At Chérie Amor Bridal, we’re here to help you shine on your big day. From finding the perfect gown to offering alteration services, we’ll make sure every detail is just right. Let’s bring your dream wedding to life together! 💍✨