Helpful Tips

Wedding Timeline

SIXTEEN TO NINE MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING

• Determine type of wedding (formal or information) and choose a date

• Visit the clergy and review synagogue/church requirements

• Determine size of the guest list

• Determine your budget and division of expenses

• Find a reception location and make reservations early 

• Select a wedding consultant, if necessary

• Select Wedding Gown 

NINE TO SIX MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING 

• Choose your attendants

• Choose a color theme

• Choose attendant's dresses

• Book your caterer

• Book your photographer

• Book your videographer

• Plan ceremony and reception music

• Compile names and addresses for guest list 

• Reserve rooms for out-of-town guests 

• Book dj or band 

SIX TO FOUR MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING

• Select a florist

• Order invitations and party favors

• Shop for bridal party tuxedos

• Finalize arrangement for the church and ceremony

• Make transportation arrangements

• Plan honeymoon; visit travel agencies, make reservations

• Put together ideas for bridal registry

• Make plans & reservations for wedding rehearsal & dinner 

THREE MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING

• Choose gifts for attendants, parents, helpers

• Buy wedding rings

• Order the wedding cake

• Buy cake knife, toasting glasses, guest book & garter 

TWO MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING 

• Address invitations/announcements
  Invitations should be sent 4-6 weeks prior to wedding; announcements after wedding

ONE MONTH BEFORE WEDDING

• Finalize details of every aspect of your wedding

• Confirm honeymoon reservations

• Have final fittings for you and your attendant's dresses

• Get marriage license

• Ask a friend or relative to take charge of guest book at reception

• Pick up wedding rings 

TWO WEEKS BEFORE WEDDING 

• Complete your trousseau

• Prepare wedding announcement to send to newspapers

• Contact guests who have not responded 

ONE WEEK BEFORE WEDDING

• Pick up your gown, attendants' dresses & accessories

• Confirm details with all participants and inform them of any changes

• Pack for honeymoon

• Make sure you have all wedding attire, rings & marriage license

• Have rehearsal and dinner

• Give final guest count to reception facility or caterer

• Get a massage 

WEDDING DAY

• Have hair & make-up done early

• Take marriage license and rings to ceremony site