Organize the many important details that will make up your wedding, from the budget to the guest list to the music and flowers.
Set deadlines for yourselves. If you have fewer than six months to plan your wedding, don’t panic; just get started as soon as possible. And never allow the details to overshadow the joy of the event.
Six or more months ahead
Think about the type of wedding you want——formal or informal,
big or small——and the time of year you want it to take place.
Set budget.
Hire wedding coordinator, if desired.
Compile guest list, and organize addresses.
Reserve ceremony and reception sites.
Choose attendants.
Order dress and accessories, including veil and shoes.
Book officiant.
Book caterer.
Order wedding cake.
Book florist.
Book music for ceremony and reception.
Book photographer and videographer.
Plan and book honeymoon.
Send save-the-date cards, if using.
Four to six months ahead
Reserve rental equipment, such as tables, chairs, and tents.
Order stationery, including invitations and thank-you notes;
book calligrapher, if using.
Register for gifts.
Purchase wedding rings.
Purchase or reserve groom’s attire.
Choose attendants’ attire.
Buy stockings and any special lingerie your
dress requires.
Choose favors.
Book a room for wedding night.
Choose gifts for wedding party.
Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Sign up for dance lessons.
Two to four months ahead
Discuss details of menu with caterer.
Discuss service with officiant.
Choose readings for ceremony.
Write your wedding vows, if you choose.
Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner.
Try out makeup and hairstyle.
Mail invitations.
Write thank-you notes as gifts arrive.
One to two months ahead
Buy guest book.
Have programs printed.
If your state requires blood tests, make appointments.
Obtain marriage license, and request certified copies.
If you intend to change your name, prepare the
necessary documents.
Send change-of-address information to post office.
Contact local newspapers about publishing wedding
announcement.
Have final dress fitting with shoes, accessories, and lingerie.
Begin seating plan, and write place cards.
Notify caterer of guest count.
Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception.
Address announcements.
Break in wedding shoes at home.
Designate someone to look after your home while you
are on your honeymoon.
Find out where your guests will be staying, if you plan to
deliver welcome notes or gifts to their rooms.
Finalize seating plan.
Assign specific responsibilities, such as handing out corsages
and boutonnieres, to members of your wedding party.
Pick up dress or have it delivered.
Confirm details with caterer.
Confirm honeymoon arrangements, and give your itinerary
to a friend or family member in case of emergency.
Update caterer with final guest and vendor meal counts.
Pack for honeymoon.
One week ahead/One day ahead
Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony
and reception.
Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after
the wedding.
Have manicure and pedicure.
Rehearse ceremony.
Hold rehearsal dinner; give gifts to wedding party. If you
choose, give gifts to parents to thank them for their support.
Prepare tip and payment envelopes for officiant and vendors,
and make arrangements for someone to distribute them.
Your wedding day, Relax, and enjoy yourselves!
0 comments:
Post a Comment