Congratulations! You said yes to the love of your life and you’re getting married! Now it’s time to start planning for your special day. I’ve compiled a list of things to consider when creating your wedding planning timeline.

Celebrate

This is a huge moment in your life.  Before you get caught up in wedding planning take the time to celebrate with your fiancé, just the two of you.   Find a romantic spot and order your favorite bottle of wine or champagne and celebrate this new season in your life.  

Share the News

I recommend sharing the exciting news in person or if that’s not possible call/zoom your closest family and friends.  But let’s face,  the easiest and fastest way to spread the news is by posting to Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, ect.  It’s so easy, just snap a picture of your ring and start sharing! 

Set the Date

Pick  a season.  This could impact whether you have an outdoor verses an indoor wedding.  Spring weddings are popular in Texas but can also be very expensive.  Look into popular wedding venues and check pricing for dates you are considering.  

Set a Budget

You’ll need to sit down with your fiancé and realistically talk about how much the two of you are willing to contribute to your wedding, and discuss your priorities as well as the logistics.  

Book Your Wedding Photographer, DJ or Band

Wedding photographers usually get booked 6-12 months before the wedding.  The popular spring and summer dates go quickly.  Do your research and set up a meeting to get to know potential photographer and ask questions before signing a contract.   You’ll also need to hire a live band or a DJ to keep your guest entertained during the reception. Some venues offer food as part of the package, but if not you’ll need to hire a cateror to serve your guest dinner.

Book Your Venue

There are many things to consider when choosing your wedding venue.  Do you prefer an indoor or outdoor wedding?  How many guests are allowed?  Does the venue offer a wedding coordinator or wedding planner?  Some venues offer many services including catering,  floral arrangements, decor, staff, ect. to make it easier.  The popular wedding venues usually get booked a year in advance.   

Book Your Wedding Planner

Not everyone has a wedding planner, some couples prefer to do it themselves. A great wedding planner will help with all of the stressful wedding planning details, and make sure your wedding day runs as smooth as possible while ensuring you don’t miss a thing.

Choose Your Wedding Dress

This process may take some time. You can buy off the rack, but if you order a custom made gown it can take up to nine months to be made.

Order Dresses for Your Bridesmaids

There are so many options. Short or long, solids or prints? Everyone should get fitted and place orders within 6-9 months before your wedding.

Book Your Hair and Makeup Artist

Trust me, do a trial run! You don’t want to be disappointed on your wedding day. You can try out your hair and makeup before the big day and let your stylist know what you like and don’t like. This is also a perfect time to book your engagement photo session. Why waste it, you’ll be more confident and your photos will look amazing.

Book the Florist

Choose blooms that are in season. If specific flowers are really important to you, then you may have to pay to have them imported or plan your wedding around when they’re available. Typically you’ll order a bouquet and centerpieces. Show your florist photos of your favorite bouquets or floral arrangements. If you’re on a budget you can get creative and find more affordable alternatives like baby’s breath, foliage, succulents and branches to decorate your venue.

Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations should be mailed at least six weeks prior to the big day. This will allow your guest ample time to respond and give you an accurate head count. For destinations weddings, send as soon as possible.

Choose Your Honeymoon Destination

This is the fun part! Things to consider when choosing a honeymoon destination:

Do you prefer relaxing on the beach or an adventure packed getaway? Do you prefer cold or warm weather?

How many vacation days do you have available? What is your budget?

Register for Wedding Gifts

Registering will make it easier and less stressful for your guests.  You don’t have to wait to register, the sooner the better. Nationwide stores are easier if you have out of town guests.  Not everyone’s budget is the same so choose items you’ll need within a wide price range.  

Create a Guest List

The number of guests you invite will impact the venue you choose.  Start with your closest family and friends and go from there.  You’ll be surprised at how quickly the guest list will start to add up, especially if you consider the plus ones.

Choose Your Wedding Party

You can’t pick everyone so choose wisely.  Not everyone lives in the same region of the country or has the same schedules, so choose friends/family that can commit to your wedding date.  Don’t feel obligated to ask someone just because they asked you to be part of their wedding party.

Create a Wedding Day Timeline

Creating a wedding day timeline will make your big day a lot less stressful! From pre wedding hair and makeup to the final exit, your wedding planner or wedding photographer can guide you through the process to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Hire Your Wedding Day Officiant

Are you looking for a religious or secular officiant? It’s always a good idea to ask your wedding vendors for recommendations. Pricing can vary based on where you live, it can range from $200 – $800. You can reach out to your local city or county clerk’s office to get more information and requirements.

Confirm Details

Two weeks before your special day, contact your caterer and let them know the final head count. Share the finalized wedding day time line with your photographer and DJ. Reach out to your hair and makeup artist and confirm your date and time.

Return to the blog for more wedding inspiration.