This is a model list based on a wedding being planned a year in advance. |
...1 Year before ... Commence |
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Officially announce your engagement and intentions to everyone concerned. You can do this informally or with an engagement party if you wish.
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Organise and set your budget.
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Decide on the date and time.
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Start to compile your guest list.
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Book an official person to conduct the ceremony.
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Secure your venues for the ceremony and reception
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Choose and decide on the people who will stand up with you i.e. bridesmaids, best man etc.
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Consider and meet with people who will record the ceremony for you i.e. photographers and start to see what is available early.
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Select various caterers for consideration and ask if you can sample their work.
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Start to decide on various entertainment options and availability and see if you can audition them.
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..8 Months before ... In full swing |
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Decide on a style and order your wedding gown.
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Make a choice and purchase all accessories to compliment the gown.
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Secure the bridesmaids apparel.
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Book entertainment, florists, photographers or videographers, caterers, music, etc.
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Finish your guest list.
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Consider your honeymoon plans.
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Reserve event rentals (if needed).
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Consider your invitations and the style you wish to present them.
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Start to select a cake.
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5 Months before … Firm decisions |
- Make a final choice and book your wedding cake
- Make a final choice and order your wedding invitations.
- Arrange for possible accommodation which may be necessary for visiting guests.
- Select flower girl apparel.
- Select and book your transportation for the day.
- Purchase your wedding favours.
- Make a final decision on your menu with you final choice of caterer.
- The groom should now start looking for his apparel.
- Buy undergarments to coincide with your dress fitting.
- Decide on and book your honeymoon.
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..3 Months before … Adjustments |
- Buy your wedding rings.
- Give your photographer or videographer any instructions which you would like them to include.
- Finalise all groom’s and other gents apparel
- Finalise any gifts for within the wedding party.
- Schedule gown fittings.
- Secure appointments for bridal beauty.
- Decide and arrange, if having a bridal shower.
- Start to create a ceremony program.
- Start to mail wedding invitations.
- Secure all groom's accessories.
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.Four weeks before … Finalising |
- Secure your marriage license.
- Last gown fitting.
- Secure any beverages which are not provided by the caterer.
- Write speeches.
- Arrange for a guest book and stationary.
- Experiment with your chosen hair and make-up.
- Have your bridal shower.
- Confirm parking arrangements for the various venues.
- Send thank-you notes.
- Confirm the music.
- Select and purchase the programs.
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.Two weeks before … Collect and validate |
- Collect wedding gown.
- Collect wedding rings.
- Authenticate head count with your caterer.
- Validate entertainment selection.
- Validate seating plan.
- Organise your receiving line.
- Plan your wedding day schedule.
- Pick up the grooms apparel (if purchased).
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..The Day Before … Early preparations for the next day |
- Decorate the venues.
- Place the guest book, favours and other at the reception location.
- Have a manicure and pedicure.
- Pick up the grooms apparel (if rented).
- Deliver gifts to the wedding party.
- Rehearse the ceremony with the officiator.
- Enjoy the rehearsal dinner.
- Try to relax.
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