The Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline: A Month-by-Month Guide
Planning your dream wedding can feel overwhelming, but with a solid timeline, you’ll keep things on track and stress-free. Whether you’re getting married in a year or pulling together a shorter timeline, this month-by-month guide will help you tackle everything step by step.
12+ Months Before: The Big Picture
- Set your budget. Figure out what’s most important to you and allocate your funds accordingly.
- Start your guest list. You don’t need to finalize it yet, but knowing your ballpark number helps with venue selection.
- Book your venue. Philly venues are in high demand, so lock yours in as early as possible.
- Choose your vendors. Prioritize your photographer/videographer (hello, Penn Wedding Co.), caterer, and planner if you’re using one.
- Celebrate your engagement! Throw a party or just soak it all in with your closest friends and family.
9-11 Months Before: Lock Down the Details
- Find your dream dress. Start shopping early to allow time for fittings and alterations.
- Book other key vendors like florists, musicians, and hair/makeup artists.
- Send out save-the-dates if you’re hosting a destination wedding or have a lot of out-of-town guests.
- Research accommodations for your guests, especially if you’re booking hotel blocks.
6-8 Months Before: Start the Fun Stuff
- Plan your decor. Meet with your florist and think about your color scheme and overall style.
- Create your wedding website. Include info about the venue, accommodations, and schedule.
- Register for gifts. Choose items you love, but also think about experiences or cash funds if that’s more your vibe.
- Finalize your guest list and send out invitations.
3-5 Months Before: Fine-Tune Your Day
- Plan your ceremony. Work with your officiant and finalize the details, like your vows and any readings.
- Taste-test your menu and cake. Make sure everything’s just as delicious as you imagined.
- Create a timeline. Coordinate with your vendors to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
- Buy wedding rings. Don’t forget to get them engraved if that’s something you want.
1-2 Months Before: Crunch Time
- Confirm with vendors. Double-check all the details and timelines.
- Write your vows. Don’t wait until the last minute for this one!
- Get your marriage license. Make sure you know the requirements for Philadelphia or wherever you’re getting married.
- Schedule a final fitting. Bring your shoes and accessories to make sure everything works together.
2-4 Weeks Before: Almost There!
- Create your seating chart. Keep logistics in mind, like placing older guests away from speakers.
- Pack your day-of bag. Include things like touch-up makeup, comfortable shoes, and emergency kit items.
- Confirm headcount with vendors. Your caterer, florist, and rental companies will need this info.
1 Week Before: Relax and Celebrate
- Delegate tasks. Assign someone to handle last-minute details, like vendor tips or emergency calls.
- Get a spa treatment. Whether it’s a massage or just a mani-pedi, take some time to relax.
- Spend time with your fiancé. Take a break from planning and enjoy a date night together.
Wedding Day: Enjoy Every Moment
- Wake up early. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready without feeling rushed.
- Eat something! You’ll need energy for all the excitement ahead.
- Stay present. Trust your vendors and let the day unfold—you’ve done all the hard work.
Planning a wedding might seem like a lot, but following a timeline can help everything feel more manageable. And when it comes to capturing every moment of your big day, Penn Wedding Co. is here to make sure your memories last a lifetime.
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