Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Wedding Planning Checklist

Today is the first day of December and my three year wedding anniversary. I have always loved winter and Christmas so what better time to get married? It may seem a little crazy being so close to Thanksgiving and Christmas. It can be overwhelming and hectic but it can definitely be done. And it can be absolutely beautiful.
If you are considering having a winter wonderland wedding here are some tips from a winter wonderland bride, yours truly!
 
Give yourself plenty of time to plan.
This Wedding Checklist is good to come back to for any wedding date!
 
10-12 months before the wedding :
Start a budget
Start working on that guest list
Compare calendars and select the date
Choose your wedding party
Hire a wedding planner/designer if applicable
Start visiting ceremony/reception locations and book if possible
 
 
6-9 months before the wedding:
Alert out of town guests of wedding date, possibly send out save the dates
Start meeting with caterers
Interview wedding photographers and videographers
Interview DJ
Select a florist
Order your gown and veil
Shop for bridesmaid dresses
Book your honeymoon
Choose your officiant
 
 
4-5 months before the wedding:
Look at wedding cake designs
Book your baker
Look for grooms tux and decide what the groomsmen will wear
Place your wedding invitation order
Confirm dates for bridal showers and bachelorette parties
Be sure to do your registry before bridal shower invitations are sent out
Reserve rental equipment such as tables, chairs, linens
Think about rehearsal dinner location
 
 
2-3 months before the wedding:
Finalize guest list and send invitations
Book makeup artist and hairstylist
Order favors
Flower girl baskets and ring pillows
Purchase wedding accessories
Find gifts for attendants and parents
Prep for honeymoon
Finalize rehearsal dinner plans
Mail invitations at least 8 weeks before the wedding day
 
1-2 months before the wedding:
Bridal gown fitting
Finalize ceremony readings and songs
Order liquor and beverages if not handled by the caterer
Begin writing your vows if applicable
Begin writing thank-you notes for bridal shower
Start thinking about getting your marriage license, typically no earlier than 30 days prior
 
If you are recently engaged and just aren't quite sure where to start I hope this helps!
 
 
Happy anniversary to my amazing supportive husband! I can't wait for the many many more years to come! Thank you for everything you do! I love you!
 
 
Photos by Lindsey Wilson Photography