The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: From Engagement to “I Do”
December 25, 2024
Congrats, bestie—you’re engaged! 💍✨ Whether you’re rocking a Pinterest board full of inspo or just starting to figure out what you want your dream day to look like, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate wedding planning checklist. And since you’re here, let’s talk about finding the perfect Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer to capture your big day—because trust us, your photos will be the thing you look back on forever.
Let’s dive into all the vibes, from your engagement glow to walking down the aisle.
12+ Months Before the Wedding: Big Moves Only
Set Your Budget: Decide what’s most important to you—epic florals, a killer DJ, or amazing photos (hint: we’re biased about that last one 👀).
Lock in Your Venue: Columbus, Ohio has some incredible options, from rustic barns to chic city vibes.
Book Your Wedding Photographer: The best wedding photographers in Columbus, Ohio book up FAST, so make this a priority. Look for someone whose style matches your vibe, whether it’s editorial, candid, or a mix of both.
9-12 Months Before: All About the Dream Team
Choose Your Vendors: Think florist, DJ/band, caterer, and planner (if you’re going all out).
Engagement Photos: Celebrate this sweet season! Your Columbus wedding photographer can help you scout the perfect location—think German Village cobblestone streets, downtown cityscapes, or a golden-hour park session.
Find THE Dress: Or jumpsuit, or two-piece set. You do you, boo.
6-9 Months Before: Details, Details, Details
Save the Dates: Send these out so your guests can mark their calendars.
Plan Your Decor: Pinterest boards? Check. Meeting with your florist? Double check.
Book Hair + Makeup Artists: Want that perfect, glowing look? Columbus has some fab artists who’ll keep you looking like the best version of yourself.
3-6 Months Before: Countdown Mode
Finalize the Timeline: Work with your wedding planner and photographer to make sure your day flows naturally. Pro tip: Schedule in golden-hour portraits for that dreamy light Columbus is famous for.
Pre-Wedding Shoots: Have a bridal boudoir session or plan a rehearsal dinner shoot. Trust me, photos from these moments are total keepsakes.
1-3 Months Before: Almost There!
Create Your Shot List: Talk to your Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer about must-have shots, like family formals, detail shots, or that moment you pop the champagne.
Plan the Playlist: Work with your DJ to create vibes that will keep your guests on the dance floor.
Break in Your Shoes: We love a stunning heel, but no one wants blisters on the big day.
Wedding Week: Let’s Gooooo!
Get Your Beauty Rest: Seriously, glowing skin is made with hydration and sleep.
Pack Your Emergency Kit: Think safety pins, mints, tissues, and snacks (hanger is real).
Soak It All In: Take a deep breath and enjoy the ride—it’s your moment to shine.
Why Your Columbus, Ohio Wedding Photographer Matters
Here’s the thing: your wedding day flies by in the blink of an eye, but your photos? Those last forever. That’s why finding the right wedding photographer in Columbus, Ohio is non-negotiable. Your photographer will capture the first looks, the happy tears, the wild dance floor moments, and all the in-between magic that makes your day yours.
Whether you’re planning a downtown Columbus wedding, a dreamy countryside affair, or something in between, I’d love to chat about your vision. Let’s create timeless images that’ll make your heart skip a beat every time you look at them.
💌 Ready to lock in your date? Check out my portfolio or slide into my DMs on Insta (@asteriaphoto). Let’s make magic together! ✨
Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.
Ohio + NYC based destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, editorial imagery. Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers specializing in candid photography.