M's Wedding To-Do List

So, you’re getting married? Congratulations! Now, comes the fun part. The first step is to breathe! Then, peruse Monthly’s wedding plannng guide for a step-by-step rundown on planning for your big day. bride_and_groom_kissing

• Hire a videographer & photographer.

• Hire a florist & caterer.

• Hire musicians.

• Shop for a gown.

6 months:

• Plan ceremony details, including vows & decorations.

• Finalize guest list.

• Make guest accommodations.

• Order invitations.

• Register for gifts.

• Meet with officiant.

• Place deposit on wedding cake.

• Order gown & headpiece.

• Reserve rental equipment, such as tables & chairs.

• Plan & book honeymoon.

• Choose attendants.

4 months:

• Select ceremony music & readings.

• Apply for marriage license.

• Purchase wedding rings.

• Finalize honeymoon plans, including passports.

• Book a tailor for alterations.

• Plan activities for out-of-town guests.

• Book hairstylist & make-up artists.

• Choose gifts for wedding party.

• Buy special lingerie.

• Book a room for the wedding night.

2 months:

• Luncheon arrangements.

• Buy toasting glasses, ring pillow, cake knife, guest book, etc.

• Select & reserve transportation.

• Have programs printed.

• Obtain marriage license & request certified copies.

• If you intend to change your name, prepare the necessary documents.

• Contacts local newspapers about publishing wedding announcement.

• Select & reserve transportation.

4-6 weeks:

• Plan guest seating arrangement.

• Make seating cards.

• Confirm ceremony with officiant.

• Speak with printer for wedding program.

• Check & update gift registry if needed.

• Meet with hair designer & make-up artist.

• Book appointment at spa for bridal party for week before wedding.

• Write thank-you notes for any gifts received.

• Confirm guest accommodations.

2 weeks:

• Final fitting.

• Notify caterer of guest count.

• Write toasts for rehearsal dinner & wedding reception.

• Address announcements.

• Break in wedding shoes at home.

• Designate someone to look after your home while you’re on your honeymoon.

1 week:

• Confirm all vendors.

• Confirm shot list with photographer.

• Confirm details with wedding planner.

• Confirm rehearsal dinner.

• Luncheon & gifts.

• Arrange to greet & transport guests.

• Bachelor/Bachelorette Party.

• Confirm honeymoon arrangements, & give your itinerary to a friend or family member in case of emergency.

• Pack for honeymoon.

• Update caterer with final guest & vendor meal counts.

1 day:

• Manicures.

• Get a massage or spend time at the spa to relax.

• Rehearsal dinner.

• Give gifts to wedding party.

• Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony & reception.

• Rehearse ceremony.

• Prepare tip & payment envelopes for officiant and vendors, and make arrangements for someone to distribute them.