# Wedding Planning Master Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear phases makes it manageable and enjoyable. Use this master checklist to stay on track, delegate tasks, and ensure no detail is missed—from the first “yes” to the final “thank you” notes.

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## 1️⃣ 12–18 Months Before: Vision & Foundations
- [ ] Set a realistic budget and allocate percentages (venue, attire, catering, etc.)  
  > 💡 Track all expenses in a spreadsheet or budgeting app to avoid surprises.  
- [ ] Choose a wedding date (consider season, holidays, and venue availability)  
- [ ] Draft a preliminary guest list (rough numbers for venue capacity)  
- [ ] Book your ceremony and reception venues; secure contracts and deposits  
- [ ] Hire a wedding planner or day‑of coordinator (if desired)  
- [ ] Research and book essential vendors: photographer, videographer, DJ/band, caterer, florist  
- [ ] Create a wedding website and set up a dedicated email address for RSVPs  
- [ ] Decide on a wedding theme or color palette and gather inspiration boards  

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## 2️⃣ 9–12 Months Before: Core Details
- [ ] Send “Save the Date” cards (digital or paper) to out‑of‑town guests  
- [ ] Shop for and order the wedding dress (include fittings schedule)  
- [ ] Choose attire for the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents)  
- [ ] Book transportation (limousines, shuttles, vintage cars)  
- [ ] Finalize menu tasting and confirm catering details (dietary restrictions)  
- [ ] Secure officiant and discuss ceremony structure & vows  
- [ ] Order engagement photos for save‑the‑date and website  
- [ ] Research and purchase wedding insurance (optional but recommended)  

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## 3️⃣ 6–9 Months Before: Creative & Legal Essentials
- [ ] Order invitations, RSVP cards, and postage stamps  
- [ ] Book accommodations for out‑of‑town guests (block rooms)  
- [ ] Reserve honeymoon travel and apply for passports/visas if needed  
- [ ] Schedule hair and makeup trials; book artists for the day  
- [ ] Choose and order wedding rings; arrange engraving  
- [ ] Create a detailed day‑of timeline (ceremony, reception, speeches)  
- [ ] Register for gifts (multiple registries, honeymoon fund, cash)  
- [ ] Arrange any required marriage license paperwork (check local deadlines)  

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## 4️⃣ 3–6 Months Before: Final Selections & Confirmations
- [ ] Send out formal invitations (include RSVP deadline)  
- [ ] Finalize music playlists with DJ/band; schedule a sound check  
- [ ] Confirm floral arrangements and delivery schedule  
- [ ] Order cake design and schedule tasting (finalize flavors & decorations)  
- [ ] Purchase wedding accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry, cufflinks)  
- [ ] Arrange seating chart and create place cards  
- [ ] Schedule final dress fitting and schedule alterations  
- [ ] Book any additional rentals (linens, lighting, photo booth)  

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## 5️⃣ 1–2 Months Before: Tightening the Details
- [ ] Track RSVPs; follow up with non‑responders  
- [ ] Create and print a detailed vendor contact sheet (phone, email, arrival times)  
- [ ] Confirm final headcount with caterer and venue  
- [ ] Assemble wedding day emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, pain relievers)  
- [ ] Write and practice ceremony vows and speeches  
- [ ] Arrange rehearsal dinner venue and send invitations  
- [ ] Obtain marriage license (check expiration date)  

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## 6️⃣ 2 Weeks–Day Of: Execution & Celebration
- [ ] Confirm all vendor arrival times and payment methods (tips, deposits)  
- [ ] Deliver final payments and gratuities to vendors (or assign a trusted person)  
- [ ] Set up décor and signage at the venue (or coordinate with setup crew)  
- [ ] Conduct the wedding rehearsal and walk through the timeline with the party  
- [ ] Pack personal items for the honeymoon (documents, meds, clothing)  
- [ ] Relax, hydrate, and enjoy the celebration!  

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## How to use this checklist
1. **Print or save digitally** – Keep a copy handy on your phone or a printed sheet in a binder.  
2. **Check items off** – Mark each box as you complete tasks; the visual progress is motivating.  
3. **Assign responsibilities** – Delegate specific items to trusted friends, family, or your planner.  
4. **Adjust timelines** – If your wedding date is earlier or later, shift items accordingly, but keep the order of tasks.  
5. **Review weekly** – Spend 10–15 minutes each week updating the list and noting any new tasks that arise.  

Congratulations on your upcoming celebration—happy planning!