12 months Before the Wedding

q    Make general wedding decisions, such as date, style, and size of guest list.

q    Set a preliminary budget.

q    Choose the location for the ceremony, and the minister.

q    Reserve the reception site.

q    Select and book caterers, photographers, videographers, florists, musicians, and other service providers.

q    Begin compiling guest list.

q    Select wedding dress, headpiece, and bridesmaid's dresses.

q    Start thinking about your honeymoon.

6 Months Before

q    Place deposits and sign contracts for wedding services.

q    Choose bridesmaid's dresses and accessories.

q    Choose flower girl's dress

4 Months Before

q    Verify that the wedding gown, bridesmaid's dresses, and flower girl dress have been ordered.

q    Make sure addresses for guest list are up to date.

q    Order invitations, announcements, and any other personal stationary.

q    Choose and order formal wear for groom and attendants.

q    Verify that mothers have selected and ordered their dresses.

q    Investigate requirements for medical test and other records for your marriage license.

q    Design a map to direct guests to the ceremony and reception sites.

2 Months Before

q    Schedule final fitting

q    Finalize bridal gift registry.

q    Confirm ceremony details with your minister.

q    Finish addressing invitations and announcements.

q    Shop for gifts for bridal party.

q    Choose wedding rings, and arrange for engraving.

q    Complete final honeymoon plans.

q    Schedule an appointment with your hairdresser and make-up consultant.

q    Finalize and verify all details with service providers.

q    Order wedding cake.

6 Weeks Before

q    Mail invitations.

q    Confirm all male and female attendants have been fitted for formalwear.

q    Set rehearsal and inform all who needed to be there.

q    Make final menu decisions.

q    Discuss wedding photo shots with photographer and videographer.

2 Weeks Before

q    Pick up wedding gown, and confirm that it fits properly.

q    Take care of blood and medical tests, and marriage license.

q    Finalize musical selections for the ceremony and reception.

q    Finalize seating chart for reception.

1 Week Before

q    Pick up wedding rings.

q    Give final guest count for the reception to your caterer.

q    Confirm details with all service providers.

q    Verify all bridesmaids and groomsmen have picked up their formalwear.

q    Confirm that all attendants know when to arrive at the rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, and wedding ceremony.

q    Confirm honeymoon plans.

q    Pack for honeymoon.

1-2 Days Before

q    Review any special seating arrangements with ushers.

q    Groom to pick up formalwear.

q    Make sure to have marriage license and rings.