# Wedding Planning Master Checklist

Congratulations on your engagement! This master checklist walks you through every major milestone, from the first “yes” to the big day. Print it out, check items off as you go, and keep it handy for the entire planning journey.

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## 1️⃣ 12–18 Months Before the Wedding
- [ ] Set a realistic overall budget and allocate percentages (venue, catering, attire, etc.)  
  > 💡 Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track actual vs. estimated costs.
- [ ] Choose a wedding date (consider season, holidays, and key family dates)  
  > 💡 Have 2–3 backup dates in case your first choice isn’t available.
- [ ] Compile a preliminary guest list (rough headcount for venue sizing)  
  > 💡 Create a shared Google Sheet so family can add names and contact info.
- [ ] Book the ceremony and reception venues (sign contracts & pay deposits)  
  > 💡 Verify venue policies on noise, curfew, and vendor restrictions.
- [ ] Hire a wedding planner or day‑of coordinator (if desired)  
  > 💡 Interview at least three candidates and ask for sample timelines.
- [ ] Research and book key vendors: photographer, videographer, DJ/band, caterer  
  > 💡 Schedule tasting sessions and view full portfolios before signing.
- [ ] Decide on wedding style/theme and color palette  
  > 💡 Create a Pinterest board to visualize décor, flowers, and attire.
- [ ] Set up a wedding website and email address for RSVPs and updates  
  > 💡 Include accommodation info, registry links, and travel tips.
- [ ] Register for gifts (multiple price points, online & in‑store options)  
  > 💡 Add a “contribute to honeymoon fund” option for cash gifts.
- [ ] Research and book accommodation blocks for out‑of‑town guests  
  > 💡 Negotiate a group rate and provide a discount code on your website.
- [ ] Purchase wedding insurance (coverage for cancellation, liability, etc.)  
  > 💡 Review policy limits and exclusions carefully.
- [ ] Draft a preliminary wedding day timeline (ceremony, cocktail hour, reception)  

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## 2️⃣ 9–12 Months Before the Wedding
- [ ] Order wedding dress and schedule first fitting  
  > 💡 Bring supportive friends whose opinions you trust.
- [ ] Choose and order bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire  
  > 💡 Set a deadline for color and style decisions to avoid delays.
- [ ] Book transportation (limousine, shuttle buses, vintage car)  
  > 💡 Confirm pick‑up/drop‑off locations and contingency plans for traffic.
- [ ] Secure officiant and discuss ceremony structure (religious, civil, custom)  
  > 💡 Request a copy of any required pre‑marital counseling forms.
- [ ] Finalize guest list and send save‑the‑date cards (digital or paper)  
  > 💡 Include RSVP deadline and accommodation info.
- [ ] Schedule engagement photo session (optional)  
  > 💡 Use these photos for save‑the‑dates, website, and thank‑you cards.
- [ ] Research and book floral designer & begin brainstorming bouquet/centerpiece ideas  
  > 💡 Provide venue photos and color palette for accurate quotes.
- [ ] Arrange music for ceremony (organist, string quartet, playlist)  
  > 💡 Share a list of must‑play and do‑not‑play songs with the DJ/band.
- [ ] Book any additional rentals (tents, dance floor, lighting, furniture)  
  > 💡 Confirm delivery and setup times with the venue.
- [ ] Begin drafting a wedding registry “must‑have” and “nice‑to‑have” list  
  > 💡 Include a mix of experiences, kitchenware, and home goods.
- [ ] Create a gift‑tracking spreadsheet (who gave what, thank‑you status)  

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## 3️⃣ 6–9 Months Before the Wedding
- [ ] Order wedding invitations, RSVP cards, and postage stamps  
  > 💡 Order a proof and check for spelling, address formatting, and design consistency.
- [ ] Schedule second dress fitting (and final fitting timeline)  
  > 💡 Bring undergarments and shoes you plan to wear.
- [ ] Book hair and makeup artists; schedule trial runs  
  > 💡 Take photos of trial looks for reference on the day.
- [ ] Finalize menu tasting and confirm catering contract (including cake or dessert)  
  > 💡 Note any dietary restrictions and label them on the final menu.
- [ ] Choose and order wedding rings; arrange for sizing and engraving  
  > 💡 Verify return policy in case resizing is needed.
- [ ] Order wedding favors and any personalized décor items (signage, napkins)  
  > 💡 Keep a list of quantities and delivery dates.
- [ ] Create a detailed day‑of timeline (ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, send‑off)  
  > 💡 Share with venue, planner, and key vendors.
- [ ] Book any additional entertainment (photo booth, fireworks, live painter)  
  > 💡 Confirm power requirements and space needs.
- [ ] Arrange for a rehearsal dinner venue and send invitations to participants  
  > 💡 Include transportation details for out‑of‑town guests.
- [ ] Research and purchase wedding day insurance add‑ons (e.g., vendor no‑show coverage)  
  > 💡 Keep copies of all policies in your wedding binder.
- [ ] Set up a system for tracking RSVPs (spreadsheet or wedding website)  

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## 4️⃣ 3–6 Months Before the Wedding
- [ ] Mail out wedding invitations (include RSVP deadline, dress code, and map)  
  > 💡 Use a tracking service for important mailings.
- [ ] Confirm attire for groom, groomsmen, and parents (tailoring, pickups)  
  > 💡 Schedule a final fitting for each outfit.
- [ ] Finalize floral arrangements and schedule delivery/installation dates  
  > 💡 Provide a floor plan with table layouts to the florist.
- [ ] Arrange for a wedding day emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, pain relievers)  
  > 💡 Assign a trusted friend or maid of honor to keep it handy.
- [ ] Schedule final meetings with photographer/videographer to review shot list  
  > 💡 Highlight must‑have moments and family groupings.
- [ ] Book any post‑wedding accommodations (honeymoon suite, night‑after hotel)  
  > 💡 Confirm check‑in times and transportation.
- [ ] Create a detailed seating chart (use a printable template or software)  
  > 💡 Keep a master copy for the venue and a backup on a USB drive.
- [ ] Order wedding cake or alternative dessert and schedule delivery time  
  > 💡 Confirm cake stand, knives, and any special decorations.
- [ ] Arrange for childcare or pet‑sitting services for guests who need them  
  > 💡 Provide contact info and drop‑off/pick‑up times.
- [ ] Send out “Welcome” packets to out‑of‑town guests (maps, restaurant list, itinerary)  

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## 5️⃣ 1–2 Months Before the Wedding
- [ ] Follow up on all RSVPs; call or email guests who haven’t responded  
  > 💡 Update your guest count for catering and seating.
- [ ] Finalize and print place cards, escort cards, and menu cards  
  > 💡 Proofread for spelling and correct table assignments.
- [ ] Confirm all vendor arrival times, setup requirements, and contact persons  
  > 💡 Create a master vendor contact sheet (phone, email, backup).
- [ ] Pay final deposits for venue, catering, and any remaining vendors  
  > 💡 Keep receipts in a dedicated wedding folder.
- [ ] Schedule final dress fitting and pick up accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry)  
  > 💡 Bring a trusted friend for honest feedback.
- [ ] Review and finalize the wedding day timeline with the planner/coordinator  
  > 💡 Include buffer times for photos, speeches, and transitions.
- [ ] Arrange transportation for the bridal party and family on the day  
  > 💡 Confirm driver names, vehicle types, and pick‑up locations.
- [ ] Prepare wedding day “music playlist” for cocktail hour and reception (if DIY)  
  > 💡 Share with DJ/band for any special requests.
- [ ] Write and order thank‑you cards (blank or pre‑printed with wedding details)  
  > 💡 Keep a few extra on hand for post‑wedding gifts.

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## 6️⃣ 2–4 Weeks Before the Wedding
- [ ] Assemble and double‑check the final seating chart; place cards ready  
  > 💡 Leave a spare copy for the venue in case of last‑minute changes.
- [ ] Confirm final headcount with caterer and provide any dietary updates  
  > 💡 Verify gluten‑free, vegan, and allergy accommodations.
- [ ] Pack a “Day‑of Essentials” bag (veil, shoes, makeup, snacks, water)  
  > 💡 Include a copy of the timeline and vendor contacts.
- [ ] Hold the rehearsal at the ceremony venue; run through the processional  
  > 💡 Assign a point person for each role (officiant, ring bearer, etc.).
- [ ] Distribute final payments and tips to vendors (usually on the wedding day)  
  > 💡 Use envelopes labeled for each vendor to keep things organized.
- [ ] Confirm all rentals are scheduled for delivery and pickup (tables, linens)  
  > 💡 Walk the venue to verify space for each item.
- [ ] Send a reminder email to guests with directions, parking info, and dress code  
  > 💡 Include a contact number for any day‑of questions.
- [ ] Review and sign any remaining contracts; keep copies in a safe place  
  > 💡 Store digital versions in a cloud folder accessible to your planner.

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## 7️⃣ The Week of the Wedding
- [ ] Pick up wedding dress and have a final “quick” press/steam if needed  
  > 💡 Store it in a garment bag with a cedar block to prevent wrinkles.
- [ ] Assemble wedding favors and décor (attach tags, arrange bouquets)  
  > 💡 Enlist friends to help with assembly for faster completion.
- [ ] Conduct a final walk‑through with the venue coordinator and planner  
  > 💡 Verify layout, lighting, and any last‑minute adjustments.
- [ ] Confirm the honeymoon travel documents (passports, visas, confirmations)  
  > 💡 Pack a separate “honeymoon bag” with essentials and medication.
- [ ] Relax and schedule a mini‑spa day or massage for the bridal party  
  > 💡 A calm mind makes for better photos and a smoother day.
- [ ] Double‑check that all emergency kit items are stocked and ready  
  > 💡 Include extra hosiery, safety pins, and a mini first‑aid kit.
- [ ] Get a good night’s sleep each night; stay hydrated and eat balanced meals  

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## 8️⃣ Wedding Day
- [ ] Wake up early, have a light breakfast, and stay hydrated  
- [ ] Follow the “Day‑of Essentials” checklist (dress, shoes, rings, vows)  
- [ ] Ensure the bridal party is dressed and ready on time  
- [ ] Designate a point person for vendor coordination (planner or trusted friend)  
- [ ] Take a few quiet moments to breathe, reflect, and enjoy the day  

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## How to use this checklist
1. **Print & Post** – Print the checklist (double‑sided) and hang it in a high‑traffic area of your home or office.  
2. **Check Regularly** – Review the relevant phase each week and tick off items as they’re completed.  
3. **Customize** – Add, delete, or reorder tasks to fit your unique timeline, cultural traditions, or venue requirements.  
4. **Delegate** – Assign specific items to partners, family members, or your planner to share the workload.  
5. **Keep Records** – Store all contracts, receipts, and correspondence in a dedicated wedding binder or digital folder (e.g., Google Drive).  
6. **Stay Flexible** – Unexpected changes happen; use the checklist as a guide, not a rigid rule. Adjust dates and priorities as needed, but keep the overall flow.  

Happy planning and enjoy every moment of your journey to “I do”!