12 Month Wedding Planning Checklist

Decide the maximum you can spend, including any family contributions. Write it down.

Start with a rough count. This drives venue size, catering costs, and stationery.

Consider season, day of the week, and key dates to avoid.

Visit 3-5 venues. Ask about availability, minimums, and what is included.

Secure with a deposit. Read the contract carefully.

Popular ones book 12+ months ahead. Review portfolios and pricing.

Ask bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers.

Meet in person. Confirm they are available and licensed for your location.

Lock in your preferred photographer with a deposit.

If having one, book early as good videographers sell out fast.

Custom orders take 6-8 months. Off-the-rack needs 2-3 months for alterations.

Shortlist 3 caterers. Request sample menus and pricing per head.

This guides flowers, stationery, styling, and attire decisions.

Useful for sharing details, collecting RSVPs, and managing accommodation info.

Confirm menu direction and dietary requirements process.

Share your colour palette, style references, and venue photos.

Ask about equipment, setup requirements, and playlist preferences.

Allow time for production and at least 2-3 fittings.

Book a trial for 6-8 weeks before the wedding.

Book flights and accommodation if travelling internationally.

Digital or printed. Give guests enough notice to book travel.

Lock it down. You need a final count for invitations.

Include RSVP details, wedding website, and any accommodation info.

For the bridal party and between ceremony and reception if at different locations.

Readings, vow style, music choices, and processional order.

Reserve a room block at a nearby hotel if applicable.

Give yourself time to draft, edit, and practise.

Book a tasting if available. Confirm delivery and setup details.

8-12 weeks before the wedding. Set an RSVP deadline 3-4 weeks before.

Allow time for alterations over the next 2-3 fittings.

Table layout, seating plan direction, menu selections, and timeline.

Covers cancellation, supplier no-shows, and damage. Worth the peace of mind.

Lawn games, sparklers, or other reception activities.

Bridesmaids dresses, groomsmen suits, flower girl dresses.

Check your local requirements and processing times.

Call or text anyone who has not responded. You need final numbers.

Group by social circle. Keep exes apart. Put chatty people with shy ones.

Send a timeline to every vendor. Confirm arrival times, setup needs, and contacts.

Bring your shoes and undergarments. Practice walking and sitting.

Take photos in different lighting. Bring your veil or headpiece.

Best man, maid of honour, and parent speeches should be practised out loud.

Walk through the ceremony, practice the processional, and celebrate with the wedding party.

Sewing kit, pain relief, stain remover, tissues, breath mints, phone charger.

This is usually the absolute last date for changes.

Wear them around the house for an hour each day.

Cash tips in envelopes. Assign someone to distribute on the day.

If leaving the next day, pack in advance so there is zero stress.

Assign someone to handle gifts, guest book, vendor arrivals, and timeline.

Phones, cameras, portable speakers, and anything else you might need.

You will not get a chance to eat properly until the reception. Eat something substantial.

Your day coordinator, MC, or maid of honour should have a printed copy.

Keep water nearby throughout the day. Dehydration hits fast under lights and stress.

Steal a quiet moment after the ceremony. The day goes fast.

Everything is planned. Everything is handled. Be present and soak it in.