the planner
Wedding Countdown
12 TO 9 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Set date and time .
❑ Begin an organization system for your planning needs .
❑ 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 , officiant and ceremony location .
❑ Create a rough guest list .
❑ Determine your wedding party .
❑ Interview and select a wedding planner ( if applicable ).
❑ Set up a wedding website and include relevant info for guests .
❑ Book your engagement session ( if applicable ).
❑ Announce your engagement on engagedsne . com .
❑ Have an engagement party ( if so inclined ).
❑ Book appointments to find the dress .
8 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Book photographer and / or videographer , entertainment and caterer .
❑ Set up your wedding registries .
❑ Book day-of transportation .
❑ Purchase dream dress at a bridal boutique and shop for accessories .
❑ Plan accommodations for out-of-town guests .
❑ 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 for wedding bands .
❑ Order invitations and favors ; mail save-the-dates .
❑ Book honeymoon ( if applicable ).
❑ Book florist .
5 TO 4 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Book rehearsal dinner venue .
❑ Order the wedding cake and / or desserts .
❑ 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 resizings .
3 TO 2 MONTHS PRIOR
❑ Finalize all menus with caterer .
❑ Reserve rental equipment ( chairs , linens , etc .).
❑ Mail wedding invitations .
❑ Finalize hair and makeup looks for both you and your bridal party .
❑ 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 a marriage license .
1 MONTH PRIOR
❑ Finalize ceremony with officiant .
❑ Fill out documents for any name changes .
❑ Go for final dress fitting ( bring shoes and accessories ).
❑ Purchase thank you gifts for wedding party and family members .
❑ Finalize all transportation for wedding day .
❑ Review photography shot list with photographer .
❑ Review music playlist with DJ or band .
❑ Buy or create a guest book for guests to sign .
❑ Create seating chart for reception and print place cards / signage .
❑ Finalize any and all DIY projects .
2 WEEKS PRIOR
❑ Give caterer / venue final head count for reception .
❑ Finalize honeymoon plans ( if applicable ).
❑ Break in wedding shoes .
WEEK OF WEDDING
❑ Send a timeline of the wedding day and a responsibility sheet to the wedding party and family members .
❑ Have checks ready for vendors ; include gratuity .
❑ Pack wedding day emergency kit ( granola bar , makeup , safety pins , extra pair of hosiery , etc .).
❑ Pack for the honeymoon ( if applicable ).
❑ Pick up wedding dress and confirm tux rentals ( or pick up suit from tailor ).
❑ Rehearse for the ceremony and attend rehearsal dinner ; pass out thank you gifts .
THE WEDDING DAY
❑ Eat small , light meals .
❑ Switch engagement ring to right hand / finger .
❑ Exchange any presents with soon-to-be-spouse .
❑ Be ready to party !
PLEASE NOTE :
This timeline is based on a one-year engagement . Vendor booking needs can vary widely depending on popularity and availability , so do your research ! If you have the time to spare , remember that the earlier you book , the better .
8 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2023