You get engaged (giddy butterflies) and then start to plan (still giddy but the butterflies are getting more aggressive) and realize everything you have to do (the butterflies have turned to iron now). So, naturally, you look for resources to make the million to-dos a little more manageable, and—if you’re like me—found about a thousand. How do you choose one? Or do you use multiple to ensure you’re not skipping anything?
I found myself referencing a handful of different checklists just to make sure, and quite overwhelmed. So for my own sanity (and I hope it helps yours as well) I’ve compiled a list of just 50 things to do to prepare for the big day and the great adventure that begins after.
12-9 MONTHS:
_ Set a date and time
_ Announce the engagement
_ Get a broad vision for the big day (e.g. size, color, formality)
_ Set your budget
_ Find your ceremony and reception sites
_ Choose your wedding party
9-6 MONTHS:
_ Finalize the guest list
_ Book:
_ caterer
_ florist
_ musician
_ photographer
_ videographer
_ officiant
_ Send Save the Dates
_ Create your registry and wedding website
_ Find your wedding dress
6-3 MONTHS:
_ Order wedding stationary
_ Shop for wedding rings
_ Choose attire for your wedding party
_ Find and book with rental supplier
_ Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests
3-2 MONTHS:
_ Send out invitations
_ Plan rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
_ Book the honeymoon
_ Finalize contracts with all vendors
_ Check and update your registry
_ Book wedding day transportation and wedding night accommodation
1 MONTH:
_ Purchase guest book and favors
_ Finalize music for the ceremony and reception
_ Create a wedding day schedule
_ Purchase gifts for your attendants and groom
_ Schedule your final dress fitting
_ Finalize the seating chart
_ Design wedding programs
_ Confirm attire and other details with bridal party
_ Pick up marriage license
1 WEEK:
_ Confirm final guest count with all vendors and helpers
_ Pack for your big day, night, and honeymoon
_ Confirm all reservations (for your out-of-town guests and yourself)
_ Pick up formalwear (including your dress) and make sure it all fits
_ Delegate day-of responsibilities to your family and bridal party
_ Finalize your vows and any toasts
1 DAY:
_ Rehearse the ceremony
_ Give rings to the best man
_ Give gifts to your bridal party
DAY OF:
_ Eat
_ Get beautiful
_ Get married!
AFTER THE HONEYMOON:
_ Send thank you notes
_ Change legal documents
Women’s Watches: 1. COACH Boyfriend Watch 2. Topman Whatever Watch 3. Kate Spade Gramercy Grand Watch 4. Michael Kors Runway Wrap Watch 5. ASOS Moving Bunny Chase Watch // Clocks: 1. Crate & Barrel Embossed Numbers Clock 2. Crate & Barrel Walnut Clock 3. Urban Outfitters Eclipse Clock 4. Urban Outfitters Around the World Clock 5. Z Gallerie Diamond Pendulum Clock // Men’s Watches: 1. Armani Exchange Chronograph 2. Topman Sunset Watch 3. Timex Easy Reader Watch 4. Michael Kors Everest Chronograph // Day Planners: 1. Waiting for Tomorrow Day Planner 2. Graphic Image Metallic Daily Journal 3. Moleskin Daily Planners //