The Ultimate Wedding Checklist: Everything You Need for a Stress-Free Celebration
- By Rhianna Marie
- Feb 27, 2025


The Essential Wedding Checklist
Planning a wedding is exciting, but with so many details to manage, staying organized is key. A wedding checklist helps keep everything on track, ensuring no important task is overlooked. From setting a budget to finalizing the guest list, having a clear timeline makes the process smoother and less stressful. Use this guide as a starting point to plan each step with confidence.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Choose a wedding date
Book a venue
Hire a wedding planner (if needed)
Create a guest list
Select the wedding party
Start dress and suit shopping
9-12 Months Before
Book photographer and videographer
Secure catering services
Reserve entertainment (band, DJ, etc.)
Choose a theme or color scheme
Shop for wedding attire and accessories
Research and book florist
Plan and book honeymoon
6-9 Months Before
Send save-the-dates
Order wedding cake
Schedule hair and makeup trials
Finalize menu with caterer
Arrange transportation for the wedding day
Select and order invitations
3-6 Months Before
Send wedding invitations
Plan bachelor and bachelorette parties
Buy wedding rings
Arrange guest accommodations
Create wedding day timeline
Book officiant and finalize ceremony details
1-3 Months Before
Apply for marriage license
Final dress and suit fittings
Confirm RSVPs and create seating chart
Purchase gifts for wedding party
Write vows and speeches
Final Weeks
Confirm all vendor bookings
Prepare wedding day emergency kit
Break in wedding shoes
Pack for honeymoon
Rehearsal dinner and final walkthrough
Wedding Day
Eat a good meal
Stay hydrated
Relax and live in the moment
This list covers the basics, but every couple’s wedding is unique—adjust the timeline to fit personal needs and preferences!