Wedding checklist

A working order for planning a wedding. Do the items in the window that matches how far away the day is. If you are closer than twelve months, start at the window you are actually in and backfill only what is still open.

12 months out, or as soon as you are engaged

• Agree on a budget with the people who are paying.
• Pick a season and a rough guest count.
• Book the ceremony place and the reception place if they are different.
• Choose one person to keep the guest list so names are not added twice.

The budget ceiling

Write the ceiling before you book the place. Split it into the place, the food, the clothes, the paper, and the music. This is Paper Aisle's own list. It does not name a dollar amount, and it is not a file you can download.

8 to 10 months

• Book the photographer and the person who will play music or DJ.
• Order save-the-dates if guests must travel.
• Start the wedding dress or suit search. Alterations take longer than the fitting.

6 months

• Book the florist, the cake, and the rentals: tables, chairs, and linens.
• Address invitations early. Send them about 8 weeks before the day.
• Write the ceremony order on one page: processional, readings, vows, recessional.

3 months

• Apply for the marriage license and check the waiting period where you live.
• Book hair and makeup trials.
• Write a seating chart only after most RSVPs are in.

The week of the wedding

• Confirm meal counts with the caterer.
• Pack a small kit: stain pen, pain reliever, phone charger, safety pins, blotting papers.
• Give the officiant, the photographer, and the venue a one-page timeline.

After the wedding

• Return rentals the next day.
• File the marriage license the way your county requires.
• Write thank-you notes within a month, starting with anyone who hosted or traveled.