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12 TO 9 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Set date and time .
❑ Begin a wedding binder , excel sheet and / or Google Doc for your planning needs . Include information on vendors , costs and contracts .
❑ Browse engagedsne . com for local resources and vendor suggestions .
❑ Determine a budget ( and who is paying for what ).
❑ Determine an overall theme / style and colors .
❑ Book reception venue based on budget and theme .
❑ Book officiant ( and reserve ceremony location if needed ).
❑ Put together a rough guest list head count .
❑ Figure out who you want in your wedding party ( and see if they are available / willing to participate ).
❑ Interview wedding planners ( if applicable ).
❑ Set up a wedding website and include relevant info for guests .
❑ Book your engagement session ( if applicable ).
❑ Announce your engagement in local newspaper or on engagedsne . com .
❑ Have an engagement party ( if so inclined ).
❑ Begin researching ( budget-friendly ) wedding vendors .
❑ Begin making bridal boutique appointments to find wedding dress .
8 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Book photographer and / or videographer .
❑ Book entertainment ( DJ , band , etc .).
❑ Book caterer .
❑ Set up your wedding registries ( and make sure the link is included on your wedding website ).
❑ Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests .
❑ Order passports if traveling out of the country for your honeymoon .
❑ Purchase dream dress at a bridal boutique ; schedule additional fittings .
❑ Shop for wedding fashion accessories .
❑ Book day-of transportation .
❑ Order save-the-dates .
❑ Get started on any time-intensive DIY projects .
7 TO 6 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Shop for bridesmaid / mother-of-the-bride dresses .
❑ Visit a men ’ s clothier for groom and groomsmen attire .
❑ Meet with jewelers to discuss options for wedding bands .
❑ Order invitations and favors ; mail save-the-dates .
❑ Book honeymoon ( if applicable ).
❑ Book florist .
5 TO 4 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Set up rehearsal time and book rehearsal dinner venue .
❑ Select and order the wedding cake / desserts .
❑ Send guest list to bridal shower point person ( if applicable ).
❑ Schedule hair and makeup trials .
❑ Finalize / order the groom and groomsmen attire .
❑ Purchase items for welcome bags ( if applicable ).
❑ Purchase wedding bands to give you time for any last minute re-sizing needs .
3 TO 2 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Finalize all menus with caterer .
❑ Reserve rental equipment ( chairs , linens , etc .).
❑ Mail wedding invitations .
❑ Finalize hair and makeup looks . Work out wedding timing with hair stylist / makeup artist ( based on yours and bridal party ’ s needs ).
❑ Finalize flowers and decorations with florist .
❑ Finalize toasts for reception .
❑ Purchase lingerie / undergarments for dress fittings .
❑ Plan bachelor and / or bachelorette parties .
❑ Print menu cards , programs and any other stationery .
❑ Apply for marriage license at your local town clerk ’ s office .
10 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2022