The Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline:
What to Do and When to Do It
Planning your dream wedding is no small task and without a clear timeline, it can quickly become overwhelming. From finding your venue to sending your thank-you cards, knowing what needs to be done (and when) is the key to a stress-free, joy-filled journey to “I do.”
At Vanartsdalen Events, we believe organization is everything. That’s why we work closely with couples to create personalized planning timelines that keep everything on track without the last-minute panic.
Whether you’re hiring a full-service planner or doing most of it yourself, this ultimate wedding planning timeline will help you stay one step ahead every step of the way.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Dream, Budget, and Book the Big Stuff
- Set your wedding date (or a few options)
- Determine your total budget and who’s contributing
- Create your guest list draft
- Hire a wedding planner (if you’re using one)
- Start venue tours and book your ceremony & reception location
- Choose your wedding style/theme (classic, rustic, modern, etc.)
Vanartsdalen Events Tip: Booking your venue early locks in your date and sets the tone for everything else.
9–11 Months Before
Assemble Your Dream Team
- Hire your photographer/videographer
- Book your caterer and bar services
- Interview officiants and lock one in
- Say yes to the dress (or begin shopping)
- Begin designing your wedding website
6–8 Months Before
Make It Official
- Finalize your guest list
- Send save-the-dates
- Book entertainment (DJ, live band, etc.)
- Choose your florist
- Order bridesmaid dresses
- Create a registry
- Schedule tastings and menu decisions
Vanartsdalen Events Advantage: This is where our proactive planning and to-do checklists really shine. We help couples make informed decisions without the overwhelm.
4–5 Months Before
Details and Design
- Order your wedding cake
- Shop for groom’s attire
- Plan your honeymoon
- Hire transportation
- Schedule makeup/hair trials
- Confirm décor plans and rentals
- Finalize your ceremony details with your officiant
2–3 Months Before
Confirm, Book, and Finalize
- Send out wedding invitations
- Write your vows
- Purchase wedding rings
- Confirm vendor services (with contracts!)
- Finalize your wedding day timeline
- Print programs, menus, signage, etc.
Vanartsdalen Events Tip: This is when your planner becomes your best friend. We contact vendors, fine-tune timelines, and make sure every detail is ready to go.
1 Month Before
Tie Up Loose Ends
- Get your marriage license
- Final dress fitting
- Confirm RSVPs
- Make seating chart and place cards
- Schedule beauty appointments (brows, facial, etc.)
- Break in your wedding shoes
1–2 Weeks Before
Prepare for the Big Day
- Confirm headcount with caterer
- Provide final timeline to all vendors
- Pack wedding-day emergency kit
- Final walkthrough with your coordinator
- Delegate tasks to bridal party or coordinator (gifts, cards, etc.)
- Practice your vows
Vanartsdalen Events Detail: I personally coordinate vendor communication, timeline adjustments, and final logistics so couples feel calm and confident heading into wedding week.
Wedding Week!
Time to Celebrate
- Attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
- Drop off welcome bags (if applicable)
- Get your nails done and relax!
- Pack your overnight bag/honeymoon suitcase
- Try to sleep well and stay hydrated
Wedding Day Tip: Let go and let your coordinator handle everything. This is your moment, take it all in.
After the Wedding
Don’t Forget the Final Touches
- Send thank-you notes
- Review your vendors
- Preserve your bouquet or gown
- Enjoy your honeymoon!
- Order your wedding photo album
Pro-Level Planning with Vanartsdalen Events
This timeline is a fantastic foundation, but every couple’s journey is unique. That’s why at Vanartsdalen Events offers custom checklists, reminders, and hands-on support to keep your wedding planning stress-free and joyful.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for help organizing the final stretch, my calm, organized approach ensures nothing slips through the cracks and your wedding day feels as perfect as it should.
