15-Month Wedding Planning Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with a structured approach, you can enjoy the journey and ensure no detail is overlooked. This 15-month wedding planning checklist will help you stay organized, from booking your venue to choosing the perfect attire for your bridal party. Whether you're opting for a DIY approach or considering full-service wedding planning, this guide will keep you on track.

15–12 Months Before the Wedding: Setting the Foundation

Set Your Budget

Determine your overall budget and allocate funds for key elements like venue, catering, attire, and photography. A detailed budget plan ensures financial clarity and avoids overspending.

Create Your Guest List

Draft your guest list early to determine venue size and event style, whether formal or a relaxed, intimate gathering, ensuring ample space.

Book Your Venue & Choose a Date

Venues fill up rapidly, so prioritize booking yours soon. Align your venue with your chosen wedding theme—whether a rustic barn, romantic garden, or elegant ballroom—to achieve the desired ambiance.

Hire Key Vendors

Start booking essential vendors such as a wedding planner, caterer, photographer, and videographer. If you're opting for full-service wedding planning, now is the time to research and hire a professional team.

Uncertain about hiring a wedding planner?

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11–9 Months Before the Wedding: Nailing Down the Essentials

Choose Your Wedding Theme & Attire

Select a cohesive color palette and style to unify your wedding's aesthetic. Allow bridesmaids to mix and match styles, fostering individuality within a modern, harmonious look.

Create a Wedding Website & Registry

Set up a website with important details for your guests and create a wedding registry with your must-have gifts.

Book Additional Vendors

Secure a florist, hair & makeup artist, and any specialty vendors like a live band or wedding officiant. 

8–6 Months Before the Wedding: Finalizing Details

Send Save-the-Dates

Mail or email your save-the-dates so guests can make travel arrangements if needed.

Plan Your Honeymoon

Book flights, accommodations, and excursions to secure the best prices.

Finalize Catering & Menu

Schedule tastings and confirm menu choices, keeping guest dietary preferences in mind.

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5–4 Months Before the Wedding: Bringing It All Together

Order Invitations & Wedding Rings

Design and print your wedding invitations and purchase wedding bands.

Plan the Seating Chart & Reception Details

Arrange seating and finalize decor details to match your wedding theme. Consider how all elements, from table settings to floral arrangements, contribute to a cohesive and beautiful celebration.

Book Rehearsal Dinner Venue

Plan a casual or formal dinner for your wedding party and close family members.

3–2 Months Before the Wedding: Last-Minute Touches

Send Invitations & Track RSVPs

Mail invitations and keep track of guest responses.

Dress Fittings & Beauty Prep

Schedule your final dress fittings and start any beauty treatments like facials or teeth whitening.

Confirm Vendors & Apply for Marriage License

Double-check details with vendors and ensure you have the required legal documents.

1 Month Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown

Prepare an Emergency Kit & Pack for Honeymoon

Include essentials like safety pins, tissues, and makeup touch-ups. Also, start packing for your honeymoon.

Break in Your Shoes & Delegate Tasks

Wear your wedding shoes around the house to prevent discomfort and assign final responsibilities to your bridal party.

Week of the Wedding: Stay Relaxed & Enjoy

Attend your rehearsal dinner, take time for self-care, and get ready to celebrate your special day with your loved ones.

Wrapping Up Your Wedding Planning Journey

With all the planning complete, it's time to reflect on the beautiful journey that led you here. Now, focus on celebrating your love and creating lasting memories. Your wedding day is the culmination of your dreams, a perfect moment to savor.