# Wedding Planning Master Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel like orchestrating a symphony—every detail matters, and timing is everything. Use this master checklist to stay organized, keep track of deadlines, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Print it out, check items off as you go, and enjoy a smoother, stress‑free planning journey.

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## 1️⃣ 12–18 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Set a realistic budget and allocate percentages for venue, catering, attire, photography, etc.  
- [ ] Choose a wedding date (consider season, holidays, and key family availability).  
- [ ] Draft a preliminary guest list (rough headcount for venue capacity).  
- [ ] Book the ceremony and reception venues; secure a written contract and deposit.  
- [ ] Hire a wedding planner or day‑of coordinator (if desired).  
- [ ] Research and book a photographer and videographer; schedule a pre‑wedding shoot if wanted.  
> 💡 Ask vendors for a “price lock” clause to protect against rate hikes.

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## 2️⃣ 9–12 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Select and order bridal gown; schedule fittings (at least 3).  
- [ ] Choose attire for the wedding party (dress, suit, accessories).  
- [ ] Book key vendors: caterer, DJ/band, florist, and officiant.  
- [ ] Reserve accommodations for out‑of‑town guests (block of rooms).  
- [ ] Create a wedding website; include RSVP link and travel info.  
- [ ] Research and order save‑the‑date cards; mail them out.  
> 💡 Include a QR code on the website for easy navigation to directions and registry.

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## 3️⃣ 6–9 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Finalize the guest list and collect mailing addresses.  
- [ ] Send out formal invitations (or schedule e‑invites).  
- [ ] Book transportation (limo, shuttle, or vintage car).  
- [ ] Choose and order wedding cake or dessert table; schedule a tasting.  
- [ ] Schedule hair and makeup trials; book stylists for the day.  
- [ ] Purchase wedding rings; arrange for engraving.  
> 💡 Keep a digital copy of all contracts in a cloud folder for quick reference.

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## 4️⃣ 4–6 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Finalize menu and beverage selections; arrange a tasting with the caterer.  
- [ ] Order ceremony and reception décor (centerpieces, arches, signage).  
- [ ] Plan and book the rehearsal dinner venue and menu.  
- [ ] Create a detailed day‑of timeline; share with vendors and wedding party.  
- [ ] Arrange childcare or pet‑sitting services for guests who need them.  
- [ ] Purchase wedding favors and any welcome‑bag items for out‑of‑town guests.  
> 💡 Use a spreadsheet to track vendor contact info, payment due dates, and deliverables.

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## 5️⃣ 2–4 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Send out final RSVP reminders; confirm final headcount with venue and caterer.  
- [ ] Schedule final dress fitting; ensure alterations are complete.  
- [ ] Obtain marriage license (check local waiting period).  
- [ ] Confirm music playlists with DJ/band; provide “must‑play” and “do‑not‑play” lists.  
- [ ] Arrange for rentals (chairs, tables, linens, tent, etc.) if not provided by venue.  
- [ ] Purchase or rent any additional accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry).  
> 💡 Create a “rain plan” checklist for outdoor venues (tents, heaters, umbrellas).

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## 6️⃣ 1–2 Months Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Final walk‑through with venue coordinator; confirm layout and timing.  
- [ ] Provide final song list and special announcements to DJ/band.  
- [ ] Prepare wedding day emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, pain relievers, etc.).  
- [ ] Confirm transportation routes and parking for guests.  
- [ ] Write and practice vows (if personal).  
- [ ] Create and print seating chart and place cards.  
> 💡 Label all rentals and décor items with the bride/groom’s initials for easy identification.

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## 7️⃣ 1–2 Weeks Before the Wedding  
- [ ] Confirm all vendor arrival times and contact persons.  
- [ ] Re‑confirm hotel room blocks and provide guests with check‑in instructions.  
- [ ] Pack an overnight bag for the wedding night (comfort items, change of clothes).  
- [ ] Pay final balances to vendors; keep receipts for records.  
- [ ] Hold a rehearsal with wedding party and officiant; run through ceremony timing.  
- [ ] Drop off décor items at the venue (or schedule delivery).  
> 💡 Set phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode the night before to ensure a restful sleep.

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## 8️⃣ Wedding Day  
- [ ] Eat a healthy breakfast; stay hydrated.  
- [ ] Have the wedding party get dressed and take pre‑ceremony photos.  
- [ ] Ensure the officiant has the marriage license and any required documents.  
- [ ] Coordinate with the day‑of coordinator to manage timeline and vendor arrivals.  
- [ ] Take a moment for a private “first look” or quiet reflection before the ceremony.  
- [ ] Enjoy the celebration!  

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## How to use this checklist  
1. **Print & Post** – Print the checklist (double‑sided) and hang it on a wall or bulletin board where you’ll see it daily.  
2. **Check Often** – Review the list weekly; check off items as soon as they’re completed.  
3. **Customize** – Add, remove, or reorder tasks to fit your unique timeline, cultural traditions, or venue requirements.  
4. **Track Payments** – Use the “✓” box for completed tasks and a separate column (or a separate spreadsheet) to note payment amounts and due dates.  
5. **Share** – Distribute copies to your partner, planner, and key family members so everyone stays in sync.  
6. **Stay Flexible** – Unexpected changes happen; treat the checklist as a guide, not a rigid rule—adjust as needed while keeping the big picture in focus.  

Happy planning, and may your day be everything you’ve dreamed of!