Winter is coming up, and you may be one of many who love the idea of a seasonal wedding.
Or have you been planning for some time, and now the wedding is just around the corner. Do you need to make sure you are on track ticking everything off your checklist?
Whether you have already been planning for a while, or you have just spontaneously started, it is definitely important to note that the next few months of planning will be very busy. There are many things to plan. Read on to have the perfect wedding with just 12 weeks of planning.
I’m Nehar. Planning weddings is my lifeblood - I could never do anything else. Growing up in the Midlands, UK, my mother tells me I was dreaming up weddings for my dolls as soon as I could walk! I just love knowing my couples can sit back and relax knowing everything is being taken care of. It is so easy to miss something that could be a key, involving professional help guarantees all mistakes will be avoided.
Read on to make sure you haven’t missed anything out and are prepared in time for your big day. Below I will also have linked a free wedding planning checklist that I recommend.
12 weeks prior
If you have only just started, you must send out invitations. Give your guests time to make travel arrangements and prepare for the dress code. If you already have sent out your invitations, chase up RSVPs you have not received.
Sort out your notice and marriage license, it can be given up to a year in advance.
Book your final dress fittings for about a month prior to the wedding or within the last month.
Book your hair and make-up trial for 6-8 weeks prior to the wedding.
Husband-to-be must pick out his attire, including a full tuxedo, vest, white bow tie and tails (if required), shirt with trousers.
Order bridesmaids' dresses and make sure to have a confirmed delivery date.
Choose and order your wedding cake, consider size or tiers based on head-count.
8-10 weeks prior
The 2-3 month prior period is mainly about finalizing the last details.
Finalise the floral designs. Remember to consider the season your wedding is in, many flowers are seasonal. There are so many options don’t leave it too late!
Order bridal party gifts with a confirmed delivery date.
Book alterations for bridal party dresses for about 1 month prior. If you think the dress needs extensive alteration then book for 6 weeks prior.
Book any transport necessary and get written confirmation of all details.
Finalise menu and drinks - appetisers, desserts, special cocktail, buffet/plated, late night snacks and more.
Finalise venue details - either with the venue or someone else (i.e. wedding planner) - table layout, bouquets, colours, wedding playlist/DJ etc.
8 weeks prior
2 months to go.
Book rehearsal dinner
Hair and makeup trail done – is there anything they think you should do? Avoid leaving this until the last minute, tell them!
Choose music, vows and readings and start practising. - Speak to celebrants or toastmasters who can give you tips.
Confirm honeymoon plans and choose your arrival outfit (blog coming on this soon)
4 weeks prior
Most importantly, it is time to start unwinding. I’m sure the last few busy weeks have just been a blur so make sure to leave yourself time for your beauty rest right before your big day. Hopefully by now you are just working on your vows and practising your toasts.
Give caterers a head count.
Bridesmaid dresses alterations should be done.
Provide vendors with finalised seating chart, head count, delivery details and confirm any final payments - a wedding planner should have created the timeline by now.
Marriage license must now be obtained
Pick up yours and your spouse-to-be's attire
Pack for your honeymoon and wedding day
Most importantly! Enjoy the big day!!
I hope you enjoyed my ‘Twelve Weeks to go!’ Wedding planing outline. Check out my other blogs and make sure you keep your eye out for more. Feel free to download The Ultimate Starter Wedding Planner Guide I have created.
I definitely would suggest involving a third party to help with the list and take the stress out of your hands. You can Book a free consultation with me if you want to see what more I can offer.