Wedding checklist for 12 to 6 months before

The big things first. Once these are done you have a date, a venue, a budget and guests – everything else builds on that.

Mikaela & Houssem · 8 min read ·

A year can sound like a long time, but the best venues and vendors book up early. Take the items roughly in this order – the first ones shape the later ones.

The frame

  • Decide on a rough date or season Two or three options are enough before you talk to venues. Check public holidays for guests in other countries.
  • Set a total budget Decide who contributes what, and add a 10% buffer.
  • Make a first draft of the guest list The number of guests shapes both the budget and the venue.
  • Decide on style and size Big party or small dinner, city or countryside, church or civil?

Venue and vendors

  • Book the venue for the party and ceremony Ask about rain alternatives, end time and whether you can bring your own drinks.
  • Book an officiant A priest, a civil officiant or another celebrant.
  • Book a photographer The popular ones often book up 12 months or more in advance.
  • Book a caterer If the venue doesn't have its own. Book a tasting for later.
  • Book a band or DJ Ask what's included: sound, lighting and how long they play.
  • Start looking at wedding outfits Dresses and tailored suits can take six months or more to arrive.

Guests

  • Create your wedding website A date and place are enough to start.
  • Send the save the date Especially to guests who need to travel or take time off.
  • Set the RSVP date About two to three months before the wedding.
  • Suggest accommodation Reserve rooms for guests travelling from afar in good time.

The people around you

  • Choose witnesses, bridesmaids and ushers Ask them in person before you tell anyone else.
  • Choose toastmasters They need time to plan the evening and take sign-ups for speeches.