- Printable Wedding Planning Checklist<\/a>
- 10-12 Months Before Your Wedding<\/a>
- 8-10 Months Out<\/a>
- 6-8 Months Out<\/a>
- 4-6 Months Out<\/a>
- 2-4 Months Out<\/a>
- 1-2 Months Out<\/a>
- 2-4 Weeks Out<\/a>
- 1-2 Weeks Out<\/a>
- 2-3 Days Before<\/a>
- The Day Before <\/a>
- Your Wedding Day<\/a>
- Make Wedding Planning a Breeze With Joy<\/a><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n
Printable Wedding Planning Checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s be honest: there are a lot<\/em> of details and arrangements to keep track of for a wedding. That\u2019s why we included this printable wedding planning checklist. This will be your go-to timeline and to-do list for the next 12 months (or sooner) leading up to the wedding. Download the checklist<\/strong><\/a> to print it out or save to your device for on-the-go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"printable](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/wedding-planning-checklist-image.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n10-12 Months Before Your Wedding<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Now that you have your handy checklist, it\u2019s time to start wedding planning! About a year out from your preferred date is the ideal time to start looking for venues and conceptualizing the look and feel of your wedding day. Start thinking about your set date and how you envision your celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"wedding](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/10-to-12-months-out-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSet your wedding budget<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The average cost of a wedding<\/a> is $30,000. If you\u2019re funding the event yourself, set a wedding budget<\/a> based on how much money you can comfortably spend. If family members are contributing or covering it, check in to see the figures and know your limit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throw an engagement party<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
An engagement party<\/a> is a fun way to celebrate your good news with friends and family. It can be as simple and casual or as elaborate and formal as you want. It\u2019s also a great way to jumpstart your guestlist and recruit help for the wedding planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Decide on a wedding theme or style<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Find a theme or style that speaks to you and your fianc\u00e9 and look for inspiration, whether on Pinterest or in magazines. This will help you decide on wedding outfits<\/a>, a venue, and the finer details for your big day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose a venue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When choosing a venue<\/a>, consider your budget, guest list, time of year, style, and accessibility needs. Since venue availability can influence your wedding date, this is a task to tackle first. Schedule tours with a few different venues to get a feel of the space, such as for the ceremony and reception, to help vet your options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Set the wedding date<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For some couples, the wedding date will be determined by venue availability. As such, it makes sense to set this after you\u2019ve chosen a venue. Alternatively, you can pick a date that\u2019s special to you and look for a flexible venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Create a guest list<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Now\u2019s the time to start thinking about who to invite to your wedding. Start a guest list and work out how many people you\u2019d like to invite. Your venue may limit this, so you\u2019ll want to first confirm occupancy limits. Make sure you collect addresses for all guests so you can send save-the-dates<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Decide on your wedding party<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve set a date and started thinking about attendees, consider who you\u2019d like to be part of your wedding party<\/a>. Select your best man, maid of honor, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and others who\u2019ll play an important part in your celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8-10 Months Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve figured out the important basics, like where and when your wedding will take place. Now, it\u2019s time to start thinking about the elements that bring your celebration to life, like photography and music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hire a wedding planner<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you feel overwhelmed with the planning process, consider hiring a professional wedding planner to handle all major wedding details, like coordination, bookings, and managing budgets. This way, you\u2019ll have support in your corner and can focus on the small tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start wedding dress\/suit shopping<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you or your partner will be wearing a wedding gown, start your search early. You may find the perfect one right away or you might need lots of time. In any case, an early start means you won\u2019t feel rushed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book a photographer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll remember your big day forever, but the photographs will visually capture those memories. Meet with a few wedding photographers and book your date with the one whose work (and cost<\/a>) best suits you. If you want a wedding video, now\u2019s the time to hire your videographer, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take engagement photos<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve found the perfect photographer, book an engagement photo session<\/a>. These photos are lovely to display in your home and share with others along with your save-the-dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book entertainment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Like wedding photographers, popular bands and DJs get booked up quickly<\/a>. Research local musicians and DJs, listen to their music, and have a conversation with a few options before making a decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hire a caterer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If your venue doesn\u2019t have an on-site caterer or you want to use your own, this is a good time to find and hire one. Whether you want a formal sit-down dinner or a laid-back barbecue, there are plenty of options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book your officiant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A good officiant is always in demand, so lock yours in as soon as you know your wedding date. If you want a friend or family member to do the honors, you can ask them now and have them get ordained online<\/a>. There are different rules depending on the city or state, so be sure to do some research ahead of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Set up a gift registry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sign up for a wedding registry<\/a> with your favorite stores. If you\u2019d prefer cash gifts or donations to charity, you can also set these up online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\nYour wedding registry, your way<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
From gifts, to cash funds, experiences or charitable causes, add any gift you want, from any online retailer, to your Joy registry.<\/p>\n<\/div>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/reg-1-1-1024x749.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nCreate your wedding website<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A wedding website<\/a> is the perfect place to share details about your big day. You can use it to manage save-the-dates, RSVPs, catering choices, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Send your save-the-dates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve finalized your guest list, you can send out your save-the-dates. This lets your guests know they\u2019re invited, and they can start making arrangements to be there. Design your save-the-dates<\/a> with Joy to easily print and mail or email digitally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6-8 Months Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Around the eight-month mark is the time to start thinking about the finer details. This is when you\u2019ll pick out your wedding cake, decor, and attire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"woman](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/6-to-8-months-out-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOrder your wedding cake<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The search for the perfect wedding cake<\/a> begins with figuring out what you love and what works with your theme. Seek out a few bakers specializing in wedding cakes or the dessert of your choice (donut tower, anyone?), have a tasting, and choose the vendor that best suits your taste and budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book your florist<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As with your wedding cake, you\u2019ll want to figure out your budget for wedding flowers<\/a>. This will help you find the right florist who can take your ideas and turn them into reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Order rental furniture and decor<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If your venue doesn\u2019t provide furniture and decor on-site, scout around to find the best vendor and place your order. Don\u2019t forget about all the smaller items you might want, such as table linens, decor, vases, and lighting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Buy your wedding dress\/suit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As for your wedding attire, now\u2019s the time to order it. This gives you plenty of time to attend fittings and make alterations so it fits you perfectly on the big day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shop for wedding party attire<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Your wedding dress is sorted \u2014 it\u2019s time to move on to your wedding party. Around the 6-8 month mark is when many couples look for suits for the groom and groomsmen as well as dresses for the bridal party.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book your hair and makeup stylists<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
All eyes will be on you, so you\u2019ll want to feel and look your best. Research hairstylists and makeup artists and book trial appointments before confirming who you want for your big day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start planning your honeymoon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you want to jet off somewhere right after your wedding, it\u2019s time to start thinking about your honeymoon destination<\/a> and where you\u2019ll stay. Look for inspiration online or reflect on previous vacations together for ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4-6 Months Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you started wedding planning around a year out, you\u2019re now at the halfway mark. Celebrate by booking a food tasting and your honeymoon, among other things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Buy wedding rings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Whether you know exactly what you want or are open to ideas, now\u2019s a good point in your planning timeline to buy your wedding bands<\/a>. Visit plenty of jewelers and see what\u2019s out there. There\u2019s a ring for every budget and taste \u2014 or you could consider commissioning a custom ring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Order wedding invitations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Make sure you order wedding invitations early enough, especially if they\u2019re bespoke by a designer. The average cost of wedding invitations<\/a> is $5-$8 per guest, so keep in mind the quantity as well as the type of design elements of the wedding stationery suite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hire your transportation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Whether you opt for a limo, a vintage car, or a horse-drawn carriage, 4-6 months before your wedding is when you should be booking your transportation. If your hotel or venue offers shuttles for guests to and from the event, you can book this in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have a food tasting with your caterer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Before you create a menu for your wedding reception, have a tasting with your caterer. This way, you can get a taste (literally) of different options and decide what you love the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book hotel room blocks<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If this is an option at your venue or a nearby hotel, it\u2019s a good idea to reserve some rooms<\/a>. This way, you can keep your closest friends and family nearby to celebrate. You can also create a list of suggested hotels to include with your wedding invitations \u2014 this is really useful for out-of-town guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book your honeymoon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve decided where to go and have a rough idea of the activities you\u2019d like to do, so go ahead and book your dream trip. If you book early, you might even be able to save money on your honeymoon<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2-4 Months Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With just a few months to go, it\u2019s time to send out your invitations. Now is also when you map out your ceremony and finalize your menu. It\u2019s all starting to come together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Send your wedding invitations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s the moment your guests have been waiting for \u2014 the arrival of your wedding invitations. Start planning early so you can turn these around quickly with minimal fuss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Write your vows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re customizing your vows, now\u2019s a good time to start working on them. They may evolve over time, so don\u2019t panic if you\u2019re still tweaking them in the days leading up to your wedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose readings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Many ceremonies feature readings from friends, family, and loved ones. Start your research now and get some ideas together for readings you\u2019d like to feature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Buy wedding party gifts and favors<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lots of couples present the wedding party with gifts as a thank-you for their support. Many weddings also include wedding favors for guests <\/a>to take away with them. Whether you choose chocolates, seed packets, or something different altogether, make sure you have plenty of time to wrap or assemble them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book your dress or suit fittings <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Chances are your dress or suit won\u2019t fit perfectly on the first try. Your first fitting will help the tailor or seamstress know how to alter it to fit you like a glove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finalize the menu<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Your food tasting gave you a good idea of your caterers\u2019 specialty. Now, it\u2019s time to finalize your menu. This is especially important to do early if you want to give your guests different options on the wedding invitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Confirm your passport is up-to-date<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re having a destination wedding or your honeymoon is in another country, make sure your passport is current. If it\u2019s expired, you can arrange a renewal<\/a> without worry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1-2 Months Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your wedding date is fast approaching. It\u2019s time to check in with your vendors and plan where your guests will be. Around this time is when you\u2019ll make good use of your wedding stationery as you create programs and place cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"wedding](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/1-to-2-months-out-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSend out rehearsal dinner invitations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you have a rehearsal dinner or pre-wedding get-together planned, send your invitations around the 4-8 week mark. This gives guests enough notice so they can join you for the meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apply for your marriage license<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You can\u2019t get married without a marriage license, so make sure you obtain one from your local marriage license office or town hall. Depending on your state, a marriage license can cost between $30 and $150 and may require a waiting period. They\u2019re also only valid for several days before your actual ceremony, so you\u2019ll want to plan ahead for the paperwork process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Create the seating chart<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re having a sit-down meal, you\u2019ll need a seating chart so guests know where to be. A lot of couples find this takes a while to get right, so start early and tweak it later if you need to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Design your wedding program<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A wedding program helps your guests follow along with the ceremony and feel involved. Create your wedding program<\/a> using a template or put the words together for a designer to whip up a program for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Order or make place cards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Welcome your guests to their seats with a personalized place card. Whether you DIY these or order them with your wedding stationery, make sure you have them sorted out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check in with your vendors<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For some of your suppliers, it\u2019s been a while since you were last in touch. Make sure everything is on track by giving them a call or setting up a meeting to discuss progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2-4 Weeks Out<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
There are only a few weeks to go until you exchange your vows and start the next chapter of your lives together. Tie up any loose ends and have fun making the perfect wedding playlist in these weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have your final dress or suit fitting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
By now you\u2019ve had one or two fittings, but this last one is the most important. If you have your final fitting now, you\u2019ll have enough time to make any last-minute alterations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Confirm guest list RSVPs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Like any event, you\u2019ll have some people who forget to RSVP or miss the first deadline. Follow up so you know what your final numbers will look like. With Joy, you can sync our Smart RSVP tool<\/a> with your wedding website for hassle-free guest confirmation and organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Book a venue walkthrough<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Set a meeting with the wedding coordinator at your venue and walk through the space. Get a feel for where everything will be and request any changes to your original plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Supply a shot list to your photographer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Many couples have a set list of photos they want for their special day. This can include couples poses, group shots, location shots, and close-ups of decor. Deliver these to your photographer and ask them for their suggestions on extras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Create a playlist for your DJ<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- 10-12 Months Before Your Wedding<\/a>
![\"Wedding](\"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2-to-3-days-before-1024x683.jpg\")
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