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The Ultimate Wedding Checklist: 99 Tasks to Conquer Your Big Day
So, you just got engaged! (Cue confetti and happy tears!)
You’ve just sealed the deal on forever, and the thrill is electric. But then, reality sets in – a seemingly endless to-do list that stretches further than the aisle itself. Breathe. It doesn’t have to be a white-knuckled sprint to the altar.
IT ALL BEGINS WITH A WEDDING CHECKLIST
I’ve been in your shoes. Not too long ago, I was navigating the chaotic seas of wedding planning, searching for that elusive “perfect” guide. That search inspired me to create something special for you – a checklist that cuts through the clutter, sparing you the stress of cobbling together advice from 132 different places. This article, born from my own whirlwind journey to the altar, is my gift to help you sidestep the overwhelm (nobody wants a Bridezilla moment) or those tear-stained pillows.
Trust me on this one: kick off your wedding planning with this checklist from the get-go. I’m not just going to toss a list your way and wish you luck. I’m here to walk you through it, step by easy step. First, we’ll take a good look at what this checklist covers. Then, I’ll be right there with you, guiding you through each part of your planning process, like a friend who’s been there, done that.
This isn’t your average wedding checklist, it’s your fairytale ending roadmap. My list includes 99 carefully curated tasks, spread out month-by-month like breadcrumbs leading you to your happily ever after. No frantic last-minute dashes, no budget meltdowns, just clear steps and helpful tips to ensure your journey to “I do” is filled with more champagne and laughter than cold sweats and indecision.
Here’s the best part – you don’t have to juggle all this information in your head.
Download my free, printable wedding checklist and check tasks off your list as you conquer them. This handy guide will keep you organized, on track, and feeling confident as you navigate the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) world of wedding planning.
So grab your partner in crime (and maybe a pen that writes in a pretty color), and let’s turn your dream wedding into a reality, together.
With your checklist in hand and Persnickety Prints as your planning partner, you have everything you need to turn your dream wedding into a reality!
- Save Precious Time: This checklist eliminates the need to scour the web for random to-do lists. I’ve done the homework, so you can focus on the fun stuff (like picking out your wedding invitations!).
- Stay on Budget: The checklist keeps you mindful of expenses throughout the process. Plus, Persnickety Prints offers budget-friendly wedding stationery bundles, allowing you to mix-and-match invitations, save-the-dates, and thank-you cards without breaking the bank.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you haven’t overlooked anything is a powerful stress reliever. Persnickety Prints’ high-quality printing ensures your wedding announcements and invitations look flawless, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
Consider this wedding checklist your roadmap, and Persnickety Prints your one-stop shop for all your wedding print, photos, enlargements, and stationery needs. Together, we’ll help you navigate the planning journey with confidence and a touch of elegance.
Why not download the checklist right now and follow along? I’ll guide you through each step of your wedding planning.
Now, let’s get down to business! Let’s explore the first important tasks on your path to wedded bliss…
Engagement Until 12 Months Before Wedding
Announce Your Engagement
Now, it’s time to shout it from the rooftops (or at least your social media)! Spread the love with a beautiful announcement. Think about what kind of vibe you want to set – classic and elegant, or fun and quirky? Persnickety Prints has a gorgeous selection of customizable save-the-dates and inserts can be personalized with your engagement photos, a cute message, and all the important details.
Plan an Engagement Party
This is your chance to celebrate with your nearest and dearest! It can be anything from a casual backyard bash to a fancy dinner party. Once you have a general idea, you can start thinking about the details like food, drinks, decorations, and activities. Engagement parties typically happen within 2-3 months of the proposal.
Pro Tip: Try spreading mini photos, photo strips or retro photos (similar to old fashion polaroid photos) on tables as a fun unique add-on. These Wood photo blocks make for a great table display for all events!
Consider Wedding Themes & Gather Inspiration
Dreaming of a fairytale castle wedding or a rustic barn bash? Now’s the time to start pinning those dream wedding photos on Pinterest and flipping through magazines. As you gather inspiration, think about how you can tie your wedding theme throughout all your wedding stationery, creating a cohesive look that reflects your unique style as a couple.
Insure the Engagement Ring
That sparkly symbol of your love deserves some extra protection. Get quotes from several insurance companies to find a policy that fits your needs and budget. Consider adding a rider to your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance for a potentially more cost-effective option.
Schedule Engagement Photos
Engagement photos are a wonderful way to capture this special time in your lives, and the resulting images can be used for save-the-dates, guest book (soft cover, spiral bound journal, photo book), or even printed enlargements for a personalized touch at your wedding reception.
Pro-Tip: Schedule your engagement photos a month or two before you send out your save-the-dates to ensure you have plenty of time to get the photos back.
12 Months Before the Wedding
Alright, congrats are still very much in order! Now that the initial engagement excitement has settled, it’s time to get down to some fun planning. This is the year to dream big, lay the groundwork, and make some key decisions. Here’s what you should tackle first:
Determine Your Budget
Before you dive headfirst into Pinterest-worthy wedding inspiration, have a heart-to-heart with your partner (and maybe your parents, if they’re contributing) about finances. Be realistic about what you can comfortably afford and allocate funds accordingly. While your budget might feel daunting at first, remember that there are ways to save without sacrificing style. Consider our affordable wedding invitation bundles that allow you to mix-and-match designs and save hundreds on your printing costs.
Start The Guest List
This can be a tricky one! Will it be an intimate gathering or a grand celebration? Start by brainstorming a guest list with your partner, then create a spreadsheet with columns for names, addresses, email addresses, and plus-ones. Consider creating separate lists for A-guests and B-guests, depending on your venue capacity and budget. Once you have drafted a guest list, you can start working on Save-The-Dates/Invitations.
Pro-tip: Be prepared to have some tough conversations with family members about guest limitations. It’s okay to set boundaries and have an intimate wedding if that’s what works best for you and your partner. Here’s a good rule of thumb: the closer the relative, the more likely they are to get an invite. You can also consider having a child-free wedding to free up some space on your guest list.
Choose Your Wedding Party
AKA your dream team! Bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honor, and best man – choose people who are your ride-or-dies and will be there to support you throughout the whirlwind.
List Potential Wedding Dates
Ideally, you want to lock in your date at least a year in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a popular venue or specific vendors. Think about what season you envision for your wedding and check for any potential conflicts with holidays, family vacations, or other important events. Once you have a rough time frame, discuss your availability with potential venues to lock in your dream date.
Research Potential Venues
The location sets the tone for the entire wedding. Research different types of venues – hotels, ballrooms, gardens, vineyards – and narrow down your options based on your guest list, budget, and desired vibe. Consider your guest list size, desired location (indoor, outdoor, etc.), and overall aesthetic when starting your venue search. Don’t forget to schedule tours and ask lots of questions!
Pro-Tip: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Consider unique venues like museums, barns, or even historical landmarks.
Look Into Wedding Insurance Options
This is one of those “better safe than sorry” situations. Consider wedding insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected events like illness, venue cancellations, or severe weather. You can find wedding insurance providers online and compare quotes to get the best coverage for your needs.
Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner
A wedding planner can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or short on time. They’ll handle all the logistics, vendor coordination, and keep you organized. Decide if a full-service planner or a day-of coordinator would be most beneficial for your needs and budget. Interview potential planners and see if their style meshes with yours.
Establish a Backup Plan for Outdoor Events
Here’s hoping for sunshine and rainbows on your wedding day, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. If you’re considering an outdoor ceremony or reception, discuss a backup plan with your venue in case of rain. This could involve an indoor space or a tent to ensure your guests stay comfortable (and dry!)
9-12 Months Before: Locking it Down!
The foundation is laid, now it’s time to secure those key vendors and book some important details! Here’s what to tackle next:
Secure Your Ceremony & Reception Venues
This is a big one! Remember those amazing venues you toured? Once you have your dream date locked in, go ahead and snag your ceremony and reception locations. Don’t forget to carefully review the contracts and ask any questions you have before signing on the dotted line.
Pro Tip: Once you’ve booked your venue, you can use beautiful save-the-dates to formally announce your wedding date and location to your guests!
Interview & Select Vendors
Your wedding vendors are like your creative collaborators, so choose wisely. These talented folks will bring your vision to life. Here are some key vendors to start thinking about:
- Photographer & Videographer: These professionals will capture the magic of your wedding day for years to come. Review portfolios to find photographers and videographers whose style aligns with your vision.
- Caterer: Mmm, food! Find a caterer whose style matches your taste and budget. Don’t forget to schedule a tasting – that is the best part!
- Music/Entertainment: Get the party started! Hire a DJ or live band that fits your musical taste and will keep your guests dancing all night long.
- Officiant: The person who will officially pronounce you husband and wife.
- Interview potential officiants to find one whose personality and beliefs resonate with you as a couple. Choose someone who you feel comfortable with and who can personalize your ceremony. For couples looking to have a friend or family member officiate their wedding, this site offers information on how to legally get ordained online.
- Florist: Discuss your floral vision with a florist and get a quote for bouquets, centerpieces, and other floral arrangements.
Pro-Tip: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors. Get quotes from several different options and see if they’re willing to work within your budget.
Book Hotel Room Blocks & Transportation
Make it easy for your out-of-town guests by booking hotel room blocks at a discounted rate near your wedding venue. Consider transportation options like shuttle services or ride-sharing recommendations, especially if your ceremony and reception locations are spread out.
Wedding Dress & Attire Shopping
This is a major moment for most brides (and grooms)! Book appointments at bridal boutiques and allow plenty of time to find “the one.” Don’t forget about your wedding party attire. Coordinate a shopping trip with your bridesmaids or groomsmen to find outfits that compliment your overall wedding style.
Order Save-the-Dates
Save-the-dates formally announce your wedding date and politely request that guests block off the time on their calendars. Aim to send save-the-dates 6-8 months before your wedding, especially if your wedding falls during a peak season or requires significant travel for guests. Persnickety Prints offers a wide variety of save-the-dates that can be customized to reflect your unique style and wedding theme.
Wedding Website
A wedding website is a central hub for all your wedding information. Share details like your engagement story, wedding ceremony and reception timelines, travel recommendations, and RSVP instructions. This is also a great place to showcase engagement photos and share your wedding registry information.
Register for Gifts
Let your guests know what you’d love to receive after you say “I do!” Register at a few different stores to offer a variety of options for your guests, and consider including a range of price points.
Investigate Honeymoon Destinations
Every couple deserves a romantic getaway after the wedding whirlwind. Start brainstorming honeymoon destinations that suit your interests and budget. Consider factors like travel time, weather, and activities when making your decision.
Pro-Tip: Honeymoon planning can be overwhelming, so don’t be afraid to use a travel agent who specializes in honeymoons. They can help you find the perfect destination and secure amazing deals.
Collect Guest Addresses
You can’t invite them if you don’t know where to send the invitations! Collect guest addresses from your family and friends. Double-check for any typos to ensure your invitations are delivered successfully.
6-9 Months Before: Nailing Down the Details
We’re getting closer to the big day, and now it’s time to finalize those details and tie up any loose ends. Here’s what to focus on in the next few months:
Confirm Major Vendors
Now’s the time to review contracts with your key vendors and finalize any outstanding details. Discuss timelines, payment schedules, and backup plans to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Order the Wedding Dress & Schedule Fittings
This is a special time for most brides! Once you’ve said yes to the dress, schedule fittings to ensure the dress fits perfectly on your wedding day. Don’t forget to schedule any necessary alterations well in advance.
Order Wedding Party Attire
Your wedding party is your support system on your big day, and their attire should reflect your overall aesthetic. Finalize your selections with your bridesmaids and groomsmen and place orders well in advance, allowing plenty of time for alterations.
Select Wedding Shoes & Accessories
Your dream wedding dress is waiting to walk down the aisle, but it needs its perfect partner! Select your wedding shoes carefully, considering comfort and style. Think about the ceremony location and choose shoes that are suitable for the terrain (grass, gravel, etc.). Select elegant jewelry, a beautiful veil, and a stunning clutch to complete your head-turning bridal look.
Decide On & Order the Wedding Cake
One of the sweetest decisions you’ll make. The wedding cake is a centerpiece of your reception. Schedule tastings with different bakeries to find the perfect flavor and design that complements your wedding theme. Be sure to factor in dietary restrictions when making your final decision.
Plan & Book Your Honeymoon
Congratulations, your dream vacation is almost here! Finalize your honeymoon destination and book flights, accommodations, and any activities you have planned. Consider travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected events.
Send Save-the-Dates
Get those save-the-dates in the mail. While save-the-dates are typically sent 6-8 months in advance, double-check your timeline to ensure you haven’t missed this important step.
Rent Linens, Chairs & Tables
Many venues don’t include these rentals, so you’ll need to find a reputable rental company to provide the event rentals you need. Choose linens, chairs, and tables that complement your wedding theme and color palette. Don’t forget about the dance floor!
Order Wedding Favors & Programs
Wedding favors are a sweet way to thank your guests for celebrating your special day. Choose favors that reflect your personality or incorporate your wedding theme. Wedding programs ensure your guests are informed and engaged throughout the ceremony.
Plan Bridal Shower or Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
These pre-wedding celebrations are a fun way to celebrate with your closest friends and family. Delegate tasks to your bridesmaids or groomsmen and plan a party that reflects your interests.
Finalize Décor Plans
Finalize your décor plans with your florist or a wedding planner, and secure any rentals you need for things like centerpieces, arches, or a dance floor. Lighting, candles, and centerpieces can all work together to create a magical ambiance.
- Personalized soft cover albums and Wall collage kits lets you visually tell your story.
- Custom canvases, Photo Display Wood Blocks, and Acrylic prints are a good option to elevate table displays or your guest book table.
- Try spreading mini photos, photo strips or retro photos (similar to old fashion polaroid photos) on tables or sharing photos in wedding welcome bags as a fun unique add-on.
Customize Your Guest book (soft cover, spiral bound journal, photo book)
Book Wedding Party Hair & Makeup
Ensure your wedding party looks and feels their absolute best on your special day! Book hair and makeup appointments for your bridesmaids, groomsmen, or any other members of the wedding party who desire these services. Consider scheduling a trial session in advance to ensure everyone is happy with their chosen styles.
Pro Tip: Looking for an easy (and affordable) way to add a personal touch to your décor? Frame beautiful engagement photos and scatter them throughout the venue.
Research Marriage License Requirements
Every state has different requirements for obtaining a marriage license. Research the specific requirements in your state well in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Book Additional Vendors as Needed
Are there any additional vendors you need to secure, like a hair and makeup artist, lighting technician, or entertainment for the reception? This is the time to finalize any additional vendor bookings you may need to complete your wedding vision.
3-6 Months Before: The Home Stretch!
We’re hurtling towards the finish line! These next few months are all about finalizing details, making sure everything runs smoothly, and soaking up this special time with your partner. Here’s what to tackle next:
Order Wedding Invitations
It’s officially invitation time! Choose a design that reflects your wedding style and personalize it with your special details. Persnickety Prints offers a wide variety of wedding invitation suites, including save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, and thank-you cards, all designed to create a cohesive look for your wedding stationery.
Order Wedding Signage
Wedding signage adds a touch of elegance and helps guide your guests throughout the festivities. Order welcome signs, directional signs, ceremony signs, and seating charts well in advance. Consider your wedding theme and venue aesthetics when choosing your signage design. Persnickety Prints offers a wide variety of customizable signage options to complement your unique wedding style to create a cohesive look for your big day.
Arrange Transportation for the Wedding Day
Ensure a smooth arrival for you, your partner, and the wedding party. Arrange transportation between your getting-ready locations, the ceremony venue, and the reception venue. Consider options like limos, shuttles, or ride-sharing services.
Select & Purchase Wedding Rings
Make it a fun and memorable experience by shopping together and finding wedding rings that you both cherish. Consider your individual styles and don’t forget to try on different sizes to ensure a perfect fit.
Finalize Menu & Service Details with the Caterer
Food is a major part of the wedding celebration! Discuss service details like plated meals, buffets, or hors d’oeuvres, and don’t forget to schedule a final tasting! Finalize your menu selections with your caterer and factor in any dietary restrictions your guests may have. Once your menus are finalized, place printing orders for menus and place cards to ensure your guests know what deliciousness awaits them.
Coordinate with DJ or Band & Discuss Playlist
Work with your DJ or band to create a playlist that reflects your musical taste and will keep your guests dancing all night long. Provide them with a list of your favorite songs and any specific requests you may have.
Plan Rehearsal Dinner
The rehearsal dinner is a wonderful way to show appreciation to your wedding party for their time and support throughout the planning process. Consider hosting the dinner at a restaurant with a private room or a special event space. Personalize the menu to reflect your taste and plan some toasts or speeches to express your gratitude.
Buy or Make Decorations & Favors
Channel your creativity and incorporate special touches that reflect your personalities and wedding theme. Decide whether you’ll buy or DIY your wedding decorations and favors. Persnickety Prints can also create custom signage and photo enlargements to add special touches throughout your venue.
Schedule Hair & Makeup Trial
Look and feel your most beautiful on your wedding day! Schedule a hair and makeup trial with a stylist to experiment with different looks and find one that you love. Bring photos for inspiration and discuss any special requests you may have.
Book Hotel Room for the Wedding Night
Your happily ever after starts here! Enjoy a night of celebration and rest after the wedding festivities. Book a hotel room for your wedding night, ideally close to your reception venue. Consider upgrading to a suite for some extra special touches like room service or a private balcony.
Make Accessibility Arrangements
Ensure your wedding is inclusive for all guests. Consider accessibility needs like ramps, designated seating, or ASL interpreters. Talk to your venue coordinator about their accessibility features and discuss any additional arrangements you may need to make.
Obtain Permits & Licenses
Certain locations or activities might require special permits or licenses. For example, if you’re dreaming of a firework display or a bonfire reception, research and obtain any necessary permits well in advance. The last thing you want is a last-minute scramble! Check with your local authorities or venue coordinator for specific requirements.
Consider Premarital Counseling
Premarital counseling can be a valuable tool to strengthen your communication skills and build a solid foundation for your marriage. Discuss this option with your partner and see if it feels like a good fit for you.
Pro-Tip: Feeling overwhelmed? Delegate tasks to your family and friends. A little help can go a long way during this busy time! Focus on your well-being and schedule some relaxation time for yourselves. The wedding day will be here before you know it, and you want to feel your absolute best!
2 Months Before: Sending Invites & Final Touches
The countdown is on! With just two months to go, it’s time to send out those invitations, finalize details with vendors, and start thinking about the little things that will make your wedding day extra special. Here’s what to focus on next:
Mail Out Wedding Invitations
Get those gorgeous Persnickety Prints invitations in the mail and let your guests know they’re invited to celebrate your love story. Double-check addresses for accuracy to ensure your invitations find their way to your loved ones.
Track RSVPs & Finalize Guest List
Enclosed a cute little RSVP card with your invitations? Stay organized by creating a spreadsheet to track RSVPs as they come in. This will help you finalize your guest list and ensure everything is in order for the caterer. Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded by the RSVP deadline to get a final headcount for your caterer.
Send Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Show appreciation to your wedding party with a special invitation to the rehearsal dinner. Keep it simple with a beautiful email or a handwritten note or for a special touch, order designed invitations with Persnickety Prints that match the rest of your wedding stationary. Include details like the date, time, location, and dress code.
Apply for a Marriage License
You’ve already researched the requirements in your state. Now’s the time to make it official! Apply for a marriage license with your partner well in advance of your wedding day. Make sure you bring all the necessary documentation to your appointment, which typically includes valid ID, proof of social security number, and any required fees. You can usually find a list of required documents on the website of your local county clerk’s office.
Schedule First Dress Fitting
Schedule your first dress fitting with your alterations specialist. Bring undergarments that you plan to wear on the wedding day and be prepared to discuss any alterations that may be needed to ensure a perfect fit.
Confirm Ceremony Details with the Officiant
Work with your officiant to create a ceremony that is meaningful and reflects your love story. Schedule a meeting to discuss the ceremony details, including the flow of events, your preferences for music and readings, and any special elements you’d like to incorporate. This is also a good time to share any readings or poems you’ve chosen
Start Drafting Vows
Put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and start brainstorming your personal wedding vows. Carve out some quiet time to brainstorm ideas and write vows that are uniquely you. Consider incorporating special memories, inside jokes, or promises for your future together.
Begin Assembling a Seating Chart
Who sits where? While it may seem like a logistical puzzle, your seating chart is an opportunity to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for your guests. Factor in family dynamics, friendship circles, and dietary restrictions as you map out your seating plan. Enlisting the help of a trusted friend or family member can streamline this process.
Assemble a Day-of Emergency Kit
Put together a day-of emergency kit that includes things like a sewing kit, safety pins, stain remover, a travel-sized bottle of perfume, double-sided tape and breath mints. Include a small bottle of water and some snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.
Plan for Childcare
Will there be little ones at your wedding? If you’re inviting children, decide whether you’ll be offering childcare services or if parents need to make their own arrangements. Consider hiring a babysitter or designating a quiet space at the reception venue with age-appropriate activities.
Select Songs for Musicians
You’ve already collaborated with your DJ to create a killer reception playlist. Now, let’s focus on the other musical elements of your wedding day. Are you hiring a string quartet for the cocktail hour or a harpist for the ceremony? Collaborate with your chosen musicians to finalize the playlist and ensure they have all the necessary information, like sheet music or specific song requests.
Delegate Tasks to Wedding Party or Family Members
Empower your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and family members by delegating tasks. Assign specific duties like helping with decorations, running errands, or being a point person for out-of-town guests. Their support will be invaluable during this busy time.
1 Month Before: Tying Up Loose Ends
With just one month to go, it’s time to finalize details, confirm arrangements with vendors, and take care of a few last-minute tasks. Here’s what to tackle next:
Confirm Final Dress Fitting & Pick-Up Date
The moment you’ve been waiting for is almost here! Double-check the date and time of your final dress fitting with your alterations specialist. Ensure you know when your dream dress will be ready for pick-up, and schedule a try-on session a few days before the wedding to guarantee a perfect fit.
Finalize Seating Chart & Order Place Cards
You’ve created a thoughtful seating plan, now it’s time to bring it to life! Finalize your seating chart and place your order for place cards. Persnickety Prints offers a wide variety of place card designs that can be customized to complement your wedding theme and add a personal touch to your reception tables.
Check In With Vendors
Touch base with all your vendors to confirm final details and answer any lingering questions. Review contracts and ensure you understand payment schedules and any outstanding balances. This proactive approach will ensure everyone is on the same page for a seamless wedding day.
Finalize Speeches or Toasts
Whether it’s you, your partner, or a member of the wedding party, finalize any speeches or toasts that will be given at the reception. Whether you write your own words or borrow inspiration from online resources, practice your delivery beforehand to feel confident on the big day.
Purchase Gifts for the Wedding Party
Show your appreciation to your amazing bridesmaids, groomsmen, and anyone else who has supported you throughout the planning process. Select thoughtful gifts that they will cherish, like personalized photo books, journals, flasks, or jewelry.
Pick Up Your Wedding Rings
It’s time to pick up your wedding rings! Double-check the sizing and engraving to ensure it’s perfect, and store your rings safely until the wedding day.
Break In Your Wedding Shoes
Avoid any blisters or discomfort on your special day by wearing your wedding shoes around the house for short periods of time. If you’re planning on dancing the night away, consider bringing a comfortable pair of backup shoes to change into later in the evening.
Review Contracts & Finalize Payments
Take a deep breath, you’re almost there! Review all your vendor contracts one last time to ensure you understand the final details and payment schedules. Finalize any outstanding payments to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
1 Week Before: Almost There!
The butterflies are likely multiplying by the minute, but this is the home stretch. This is your time to finalize details, delegate tasks, and relax and pamper yourself before the wedding whirlwind. Here’s what to focus on this week from your wedding checklist:
Final Headcount to the Caterer
Avoid any last-minute surprises by confirming the final guest count with your caterer. Double-check your RSVP list and provide them with an accurate headcount a week before the wedding. This ensures they have enough food and beverages for everyone to celebrate!
Confirm Vendor Details
Touch base with all your vendors during the week leading up to your wedding. Confirm arrival times, finalize details, and address any last-minute questions. This proactive approach will guarantee everyone is on the same page for a seamless wedding day experience.
Pack for Your Honeymoon
Pack your bags with everything you need for relaxation and romance. Don’t forget the essentials like passports, travel documents, comfortable walking shoes, and a swimsuit (or two!). Consider creating a packing checklist to ensure you don’t leave anything behind.
Pro-Tip: Pack a small bag for your carry-on with a change of clothes and any medications you might need in case of checked baggage delays.
Prepare Vendor Payments
Avoid any last-minute scrambling on your wedding day by preparing envelopes with payment for each vendor, clearly labeled with the vendor’s name and the service provided. Include gratuity in each envelope based on your prior agreements or industry standards.
Pick Up Wedding Attire
Pick up your wedding dress (and don’t forget those shoes!) and ensure everything fits perfectly. Double-check for any last-minute adjustments and ensure it fits perfectly. Carefully store your attire in a clean, wrinkle-free place until the wedding day.
Gather Wedding Day Essentials
This week, focus on collecting all the wedding day essentials you’ll be bringing to the ceremony and reception venues. This might include decorations, welcome baskets, guest book (soft cover, spiral bound journal, photo book) cake topper, programs, place cards, favors, etc. Pack everything neatly into labeled boxes for easy transport and setup. Coordinate with your venue coordinators in advance to confirm any delivery restrictions or preferred drop-off times.
Delegate Tasks
You’ve come a long way, but there might still be a few loose ends. Don’t be afraid to delegate last-minute tasks to your partner, family, or friends. Assign specific duties like confirming ceremony details with the officiant, picking up any rental items, or steaming your wedding dress. Take a deep breath, relax, and savor these special pre-wedding moments!
Confirm Post-Wedding Day Plans
The wedding festivities might be consuming your thoughts, but don’t forget about what comes after! Confirm your honeymoon travel arrangements and double-check any post-wedding hotel reservations. Consider scheduling transportation to get you to the airport or train station on time.
Pro-Tip: If you’re expecting wedding gifts, delegate the task of collecting and storing them to a trusted friend or family member so you can focus on enjoying your honeymoon.
Pamper Yourself
You deserve to feel radiant on your wedding day. Schedule some self-care time for a manicure, pedicure, or massage. Relax, unwind, and focus on feeling your absolute best.
Clean Your Ring
Give your engagement ring a good cleaning with a gentle jewelry cleaner or by bringing it to a jeweler for a professional cleaning to make it gleam for those wedding photos.
Write a Note to Your Partner
Take some quiet time to write a heartfelt note to your partner. Express your love, excitement, and appreciation for all their support throughout the planning process. This personal touch will be a cherished memento for years to come.
Practice Your Vows
Rehearse your vows in a quiet space to feel confident and prepared for the big day. Practice doesn’t have to be perfect, but it can help alleviate any pre-wedding jitters. Focus on the emotions behind your words and the love you want to express to your partner.
The Day Before: Almost There!
Pre-wedding jitters? It’s completely normal to feel a few butterflies fluttering around! Take a deep breath, these next sections will guide you through the final preparations and post-wedding tasks.
Drop Off Necessary Items at the Venue
Have a trusted friend or family member drop off your wedding day essentials you packed up last week at the wedding venue according to your prior arrangements with the venue coordinator. Double-check to ensure everything arrives safely.
Final Vendor Touches
Touch base with your wedding party and vendors one last time. Confirm ceremony and reception details, arrival times, and answer any lingering questions. Be sure to express your appreciation for their hard work and support.
Pack a Bag of Personal Items for the Wedding Day
Pack a designated bag with all the essentials you’ll need on your wedding day. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
- Emergency kit
- Vows (if handwritten)
- Marriage license
- Tissues
- Personal toiletries (lip balm, deodorant, hairbrush, makeup, etc.)
- Cash for any incidentals
- Phone charger
- Small sewing kit
- Comfortable shoes for getting ready
Attend Rehearsal Dinner
Celebrate with your wedding party and close family at the rehearsal dinner. Enjoy a delicious meal, reconnect with loved ones, and rehearse the ceremony flow. This is a wonderful time to relax, unwind, and build excitement for the big day!
Enjoy a Relaxing Evening
Draw a relaxing bath, read a good book, or spend time with loved ones. Focus on unwinding and getting a good night’s sleep before the wedding.
Morning of the Wedding: Let's Do This!
It’s here! It’s finally your wedding day! Take a deep breath, savor the excitement, and focus on feeling your most beautiful (or handsome) self. Now, let’s tick off some more items from your wedding checklist, shall we?
Eat a Light, Healthy Breakfast
Start your day with a light, healthy breakfast to keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Avoid anything too heavy or greasy that might cause discomfort. Stay hydrated with water or herbal tea.
Wear a Button-Down Shirt for Hair and Makeup
Consider wearing a button-down shirt or a loose-fitting robe during hair and makeup appointments. This allows for easy removal without messing up your hairstyle.
Ensure Someone is Responsible for Day-of Items
Assign a trusted friend or family member the responsibility of keeping track of your day-of essentials bag. This will free you up to focus on getting ready and enjoying these special moments.
Verify Arrival of Vendors
Assign a trusted friend or family member the important task of keeping an eye on vendor arrival times. Equip them with a copy of your wedding day timeline and a list of vendor contact information. This point person can tactfully follow up with any vendors who may be running behind schedule and help ensure a smooth flow throughout the day.
Steam Wedding Outfits if Needed
As soon as you arrive at the venue, remove your wedding attire from its garment bag and hang it carefully on a sturdy hanger. Allow any wrinkles to relax naturally for a few minutes. If necessary, use a steamer according to the fabric care instructions. Avoid using an iron directly on your clothes, as this can scorch or damage delicate fabrics.
Lay Out Items for Photography
You Did It! The confetti has settled, the cake has been devoured, and you’re officially Mr. & Mrs. (or Mr. & Mr. or Ms. & Ms.)! Here are a few things to take care of in the following days and weeks:
Confirm Return of Rented Items
Don’t let those rental items turn into pumpkins! Coordinate with your rental company on the designated return date (tables, chairs, linens, etc.) as specified in your contract.
Ensure Final Payments to Vendors Are Completed
Ensure all outstanding payments to your vendors are finalized. Double-check your contracts and clear any remaining balances to avoid any post-wedding headaches.
Send Thank-You Cards
Express your gratitude to your guests and vendors with personalized thank-you cards. Handwritten thank-you notes are always appreciated and Persnickety Prints offers a wide variety of beautiful thank-you cards that you can personalize with your wedding photos and a heartfelt message.
Select Photos for Albums or Printing
Select your favorite photos from your wedding day to create stunning wall decor prints, personalized gifts, and heirloom-quality wedding albums. From classic photo albums to modern canvas prints, Persnickety Prints has everything you need to preserve your wedding memories for years to come.
Leave Positive Reviews for Vendors
Leave positive online reviews for the vendors who made your wedding day unforgettable. Your feedback helps future couples find amazing vendors and supports the businesses that contributed to your special day.
Enjoy Your Honeymoon and Relax!
Now it’s time to unwind and enjoy your honeymoon. Relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories together as a newly married couple.
And They Lived Happily Ever After...
You did it! You’ve meticulously planned, delegated like a pro, and now you’re basking in the afterglow of your beautiful wedding day. Congratulations! This wedding checklist has been your companion throughout this exciting journey, and I hope it helped you navigate the planning process with a sense of calm and confidence.
This isn’t where our story ends. The start of your happily ever after is just the beginning, and I, along with Persnickety Prints, am excited to continue celebrating your love story. Whether it’s capturing the memories of your big day or creating keepsakes for all the moments to come – we’re here for it all.
Huge congratulations once again, and here’s to a future filled with love, laughter and endless happiness.
