The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job—especially when you’re juggling work, family, and life in between. As a wedding planner with over 20 years of experience, I know how important it is to have a clear roadmap from the start.

That’s why I’ve created this ultimate wedding planning checklist to guide you through every step—from booking your venue to writing your vows. Whether you’re newly engaged or halfway through planning, this guide will help you stay organized and confident.

12+ Months Before the Wedding

• Set a budget

• Draft your guest list

• Hire a wedding planner

• Choose a wedding date

• Tour and book your venue

• Decide on a theme or vision

• Start researching vendors
  

9–11 Months Before

• Book photographer and videographer

• Hire your caterer

• Choose your officiant

• Begin dress/outfit shopping

• Reserve hotel blocks

• Build your wedding website
  

6–8 Months Before

• Hire florist, DJ/band, and any specialty vendors

• Send save-the-dates

• Finalize guest list

• Book rentals

• Plan your honeymoon
  

4–5 Months Before

• Order invitations

• Book hair and makeup

• Schedule dress fittings

• Choose ceremony music

• Confirm vendor details
  

2–3 Months Before

• Send invitations

• Buy wedding bands

• Finalize ceremony script

• Build your wedding day timeline

• Begin seating chart

• Apply for marriage license
  

1 Month Before

• Final dress fitting

• Confirm guest count

• Share timeline with vendors

• Write vows

• Prepare final payments
  

1 Week Before

• Pack your wedding day emergency kit

• Pick up wedding attire

• Confirm beauty appointments

• Practice your ceremony

• Breathe—you’re almost there!
  

Your Wedding Day

• Relax and enjoy the moment—you’ve done the work

• Trust your planner (that’s me!)

• Soak in every second with your partner, family, and friends
  

After the Wedding

• Send thank-you notes

• Return rentals

• Leave reviews for vendors

• Preserve your bouquet or dress

• Celebrate your newlywed life!
  
  

Final Thoughts

Remember: you don’t have to do it all alone. A solid checklist is a great start, but having a professional by your side makes the process smoother, less stressful, and a lot more fun.

If you’re looking for a Charlottesville, Richmond, or D.C. wedding planner who can guide you every step of the way, Sarah Collins Events is here to help.

Schedule your consultation today, and let’s start planning a wedding that’s beautifully and authentically you.