


Planning a wedding is an exciting journey that requires careful organization and attention to detail. Creating a comprehensive timeline helps ensure that everything runs smoothly, from the moment you get engaged to the day you say “I do.” Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the wedding planning process with ease. As a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer the only thing I recommend deviating from with this timeline is booking your vendors much sooner. If you have preferred vendors I recommend reaching out at least a year before your wedding date as people book up fast. I’m not sure about other cities but Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers book up fast! I typically book up 12-20 months before wedding dates!
Here’s a post that might help if you need tips on a stress free wedding planning experience!
12-18 Months Before the Wedding
1. Celebrate Your Engagement
- Announce Your Engagement: Share the happy news with friends and family.
- Engagement Party: Consider hosting an engagement party to celebrate with loved ones.
- Here’s a link to 6 stunning engagement party dresses!
2. Set Your Budget
- Determine Your Budget: Discuss with your partner and any contributors to establish a budget.
- Track Expenses: Use a spreadsheet or wedding planning app to keep track of your spending.
3. Draft Your Guest List
- Create a Preliminary List: Start with a rough list of potential guests.
- Estimate Size: Determine the size of your wedding to help with venue selection.
4. Choose a Date and Venue
- Select a Date: Consider seasonal availability and any significant dates.
- Tour Venues: Visit potential venues and book your preferred location.
5. Hire a Wedding Planner
- Research Planners: Find a wedding planner if you need assistance with organizing the event.
- Book Early: Popular planners can book up quickly, so secure your planner as soon as possible.
9-12 Months Before the Wedding
6. Choose Your Wedding Party
- Select Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Decide who you want by your side on your big day.
- Ask Early: Give your wedding party ample time to prepare and make arrangements.
7. Start Dress Shopping
- Research Styles: Look for inspiration online and in bridal magazines.
- Here’s a post for the most flattering bridesmaids dresses!
- Schedule Appointments: Visit bridal shops and start trying on dresses.
8. Book Key Vendors
- Photographer/Videographer: Book a professional to capture your special moments.
- Caterer: Arrange tastings and select your menu.
- Entertainment: Hire a band, DJ, or other entertainers.
- Florist: Discuss floral arrangements and book a florist.
9. Send Save-the-Dates
- Design Save-the-Dates: Choose a design that reflects your wedding theme.
- Send to Guests: Mail them out so guests can mark their calendars.
6-9 Months Before the Wedding
10. Plan Your Ceremony
- Meet Officiant: Discuss the ceremony format and any personal touches.
- Write Vows: Start thinking about and writing your vows.
11. Finalize Guest List
- Review List: Finalize your guest list to prepare for invitations.
12. Book Transportation
- Arrange Transport: Book transportation for the wedding party and guests, if needed.
13. Shop for Bridesmaid Dresses and Groomsmen Attire
- Choose Styles: Select and order dresses and suits.
- Schedule Fittings: Arrange for fittings and alterations.
14. Create a Wedding Website
- Design Site: Include essential information like the schedule, venue details, and accommodation options.
- RSVP Management: Use it to track RSVPs and communicate with guests.
3-6 Months Before the Wedding
15. Send Invitations
- Design Invitations: Finalize and order your wedding invitations.
- Mail Invitations: Send them out at least six months before the wedding.
16. Plan the Honeymoon
- Research Destinations: Choose a location and book travel arrangements.
- Check Passports: Ensure passports and
other necessary documents are up to date.
17. Organize Rehearsal Dinner
- Book Venue: Choose a location for the rehearsal dinner.
- Send Invitations: Inform your wedding party and close family members.
18. Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
- Research Artists: Find hair and makeup artists and book trials.
- Try Different Styles: Decide on the look you want for the big day.
19. Plan Your Registry
- Create a Registry: Choose a variety of gifts at different price points.
- Share with Guests: Include registry information on your wedding website.
2-3 Months Before the Wedding
20. Finalize Details with Vendors
- Confirm Arrangements: Reconfirm all details with your vendors, including timelines and specific requests.
- Make Final Payments: Settle any remaining balances.
21. Plan Your Seating Chart
- Organize Tables: Assign guests to tables based on your final guest list.
- Create Place Cards: Order or make place cards for each guest.
22. Write Your Speeches
- Prepare Speeches: Write and practice your speeches or toasts.
- Coordinate with Others: Ensure your wedding party knows the order of speeches.
23. Have Final Dress Fitting
- Try on Dress: Ensure your dress fits perfectly and make any last-minute adjustments.
- Break in Shoes: Wear your wedding shoes around the house to avoid discomfort.
1 Month Before the Wedding
24. Obtain Marriage License
- Apply for License: Check the requirements in your state and apply for your marriage license.
- Keep it Safe: Store it in a safe place until the wedding day.
25. Confirm RSVP Count
- Follow Up: Contact any guests who haven’t responded.
- Provide Final Count: Give the final headcount to your caterer and venue.
26. Finalize Timeline
- Create Detailed Schedule: Outline the schedule for the wedding day and distribute it to your vendors and wedding party.
- Share with Key People: Ensure everyone involved knows their roles and timing.
1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding
27. Pack for Honeymoon
- Create a Packing List: Ensure you have everything you need for your honeymoon.
- Pack Early: Get your bags ready in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
28. Confirm Transportation
- Recheck Details: Confirm pick-up times and locations with your transportation provider.
- Share Schedule: Ensure the wedding party knows the transportation plan.
29. Delegate Tasks
- Assign Responsibilities: Give trusted friends or family members specific tasks for the day.
- Provide Contact Information: Make sure they have contact details for all vendors.
Day Before the Wedding
30. Rehearse Ceremony
- Conduct Rehearsal: Go through the ceremony with your officiant and wedding party.
- Review Roles: Ensure everyone knows their positions and responsibilities.
31. Relax and Prepare
- Pamper Yourself: Schedule a relaxing activity, like a massage or spa treatment.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Ensure you rest well before the big day.
Wedding Day
32. Enjoy Your Day!
- Stick to the Schedule: Follow your detailed timeline to keep everything on track.
- Stay Present: Enjoy every moment and trust that
all your planning will pay off.
33. Capture the Moments
- Work with Your Photographer: Your Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer will document the special moments throughout the day. Be sure to take time for portraits, candid shots, and group photos.
34. Emergency Kit
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include items like safety pins, pain relievers, snacks, and makeup touch-ups to handle any last-minute issues.
35. Have Fun
- Celebrate: Dance, laugh, and enjoy the celebration with your loved ones.
Post-Wedding
36. Send Thank-You Notes
- Express Gratitude: Send personalized thank-you notes to your guests and vendors.
37. Preserve Your Dress
- Clean and Store: Have your wedding dress professionally cleaned and preserved.
38. Share Photos and Videos
- Distribute Memories: Share your wedding photos and videos with family and friends. Collaborate with your Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer to create albums and prints.
39. Reflect and Relax
- Enjoy Newlywed Life: Take time to relax and reflect on your beautiful wedding day and enjoy the start of your new journey together.
By following this comprehensive timeline, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding planning process. Each step, from celebrating your engagement to the final moments of your wedding day, is crucial in creating a memorable and stress-free experience. Happy planning!
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.