Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming, but a clear, month-by-month timeline can help keep everything manageable. Here’s a streamlined plan to guide you from engagement to “I do”—so you can focus on enjoying every moment.

12+ Months Before: The Foundation Stage

Set Up Your Inspiration Board: Start a Pinterest board or folder for all your wedding ideas—decor, dresses, colours, and themes.
Define Your Budget: Agree on a budget. If family members plan to contribute, find out early to help manage expectations and costs.
Choose a Planner (Optional): If hiring a wedding planner, start looking now to secure someone who aligns with your vision.
Select Your Date & Book Venues: Decide on a date, then book the ceremony and reception venues (some availability may depend on the other).
Draft Your Guest List: Make a preliminary list, as this helps you choose a venue with the right capacity.
Choose Your Wedding Party: Select the loved ones who’ll support you on the big day—don’t worry about matching numbers for bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Book Your Officiant: Secure your wedding celebrant, as popular ones can book up far in advance.

9–12 Months Before: Locking in Key Vendors

Order Your Wedding Attire: If you’re ordering a gown, book your dress designer now—it can take months for a custom dress to be made.
Secure Caterer and Entertainment: Book your caterer (if it’s not part of the venue package) and your DJ or live musicians.
Choose Your Photographer & Videographer: Meet with potential photographers to find someone who matches your style. A videographer can also capture special moments.
Book a Florist: Consult with your florist and share your ideas or favourite flowers.
Reserve Accommodation for Guests: Book blocks of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests, then include details on your wedding website.
Set Up a Wedding Website: Share accommodation, transportation options, and an RSVP section here.

Choosing the Right Photographer

As a wedding photographer myself, I know how important it is to choose the right person to capture your big day. When booking your photographer or videographer, be sure to ask to see an entire wedding gallery, not just a highlight reel. This will give you a true sense of their style and consistency throughout the day. Remember, your photographer will be by your side from the start to the finish of your wedding, so it’s essential to feel comfortable with them. I recommend setting up a video call to get to know them better and ensure their personality aligns with yours. It’s not just about capturing beautiful moments, but about having someone you trust to be there with you throughout the day.

6–9 Months Before: Styling & Honeymoon Planning

Design Invitations: Order or design your wedding invitations. If you’re having a destination or holiday wedding, send out save-the-dates now.
Organise Bridal Party Attire: Arrange bridesmaid dresses, suits for groomsmen, and outfits for flower girls and pageboys.
Start Honeymoon Planning: Research locations, check for passport validity, and look into vaccinations if needed.

4–6 Months Before: Finalise Details

Purchase Wedding Rings: Allow time for sizing and possible engraving.
Select Cake & Do Tastings: Book your cake baker and finalise flavours or design.
Book Hair & Makeup Artists: Arrange your beauty team, and schedule trial sessions to refine your look.
Plan the Day-of Schedule: Map out timing for key moments, keeping travel times and guest comfort in mind. Sample timeline:
- 10:00 am – Hair stylist arrives
- 11:00 am – Makeup artist and photographer arrive
- 1:00 pm – Ceremony begins
- 5:00 pm – Reception and dinner
- 7:00 pm – First dance and party
Organise Rentals: Arrange seating, decor, and any items not provided by the venue.
Compile a Gift Registry: Friends and family often prefer registries, so pick out items at a few locations.

3 Months Before: Invitations & Finishing Touches

Finalise the Menu & Florals: Confirm details with your caterer and florist.
Order Bridal Party Gifts: Pick out gifts for your bridesmaids and groomsmen to thank them for their support.
Send Invitations: Mail invites at least 8–10 weeks in advance.
Confirm Toasts & Speeches: Decide who will be speaking during the reception.

2 Months Before: Final Preparations

Meet with Photographer: Review your shot list, must-have moments, and any specific photo locations.
Do Beauty Trials: Have a final hair and makeup trial to confirm your look for the big day.
Write Your Vows: Take some time to prepare personal vows if you plan to say them.

1 Month Before: Confirm Guest Numbers & Timeline

Follow Up on RSVPs: Contact any guests who haven’t responded.
Create a Seating Plan: Begin your seating chart and order place cards.
Have Final Dress Fitting: Bring all undergarments, shoes, and accessories to ensure a perfect fit.
Share Timeline with Vendors: Confirm timing with each vendor so everyone is prepared.

2 Weeks Before: Last Details & Logistics

Confirm Venue Needs: Notify the venue of any special requests (extra power outlets, refrigeration, etc.).
Finalise DJ Playlist: Share your playlist with the DJ, including songs you’d like to avoid.
Get Grooming Done: Schedule a haircut or colour refresh.
Break in Your Shoes: Walk around in your wedding shoes to avoid blisters.
Pack for the Honeymoon: Organise all travel essentials, from passports to swimwear.

The Week of the Wedding: Final Touches

Finalise Headcount: Confirm numbers with your caterer and venue.
Delegate Tasks: Assign friends or family to handle guest questions, vendor coordination, and post-wedding logistics.
Prepare Final Payments & Tips: Arrange payment for vendors and prepare tips for on-site staff.
Drop Off Decor: Hand over any DIY or rented decor to your venue manager.
Organise Snacks & Drinks: Set up refreshments in the dressing rooms for the bridal party.

The Day Before: Rehearse & Relax

Rehearse the Ceremony: Do a run-through with the wedding party, family, and officiant.
Introduce Go-to People: Make sure your venue manager meets your chosen point of contact (e.g., the best man or maid of honour) for handling questions during the reception.
Get a Good Night’s Rest: Relax and prepare for the big day ahead.

Wedding Day: Stay Calm & Celebrate!

Prepare for Photos: Get ready in natural light for the best photos. Your photographer may have helpful tips.
Eat Breakfast and Stay Hydrated: It’s a long day; nourish yourself to feel your best.
Have a Moment with Family: Take a few quiet minutes with close family members before the ceremony.
Live in the Moment: Embrace every moment—it’s your day to celebrate love with everyone you hold dear.

Wedding planning may seem overwhelming, but following this simple timeline will help keep everything on track. Enjoy the journey, and don’t forget: this is a day to celebrate love!

If this timeline helped simplify your wedding planning, please share it with others who might find it useful! I’d also love to hear your thoughts—if you think of any additions or have tips to make this guide even better, feel free to comment below or drop me an email at info@dejijohnson.co.uk. Happy planning, and thanks for reading!

Essential Wedding Planning Timeline: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Wedding