To plan the perfect celebration, use this comprehensive checklist, with a timeline based on the 16-month length of the average U.S. engagement.
Sixteen to Nine Months Before
Start a wedding folder or binder. Begin leafing through bridal, lifestyle, fashion, gardening, design, and food magazines for inspiration.
Work out your budget. Determine how much you have to spend, based on your familie's contributions and your own.
Pick your wedding party. As soon as you're engaged, people will start wondering who's in.
Start the guest list. Make a head count database to use throughout your planning process, with columns for contact info, RSVPs, gifts, and any other relevant information. (Want to keep costs low? It may be brutal, but the best way to do it is to reduce your guest list.)
Hire a planner, if desired. A planner will have relationships with and insights about vendors.
Reserve your date and venues. Decide whether to have separate locations for the ceremony and the reception, factoring in travel time between the two places.
Book your officiant, church or minister.
Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers. Keep their contact information in your binder.
Throw an engagement party, if you wish. But remember that your invitees should be on your wedding guest list as well.
Eight months Before
Hire the photographer and the videographer. No need to talk specifics yet, but be sure that the people you hire are open to doing the shots that you want.
Book the entertainment. Attend gigs of potential acts to see how they perform in front of audiences, then reserve your favorite.
Meet caterers. If your wedding venue doesn't offer its own catering service, look for one now and hire the service this month or early next.
Purchase a dress. You'll need to schedule time for at least three fittings. Veil shopping can be postponed for another two to three months.
Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Pick three hotels at different price points close to the reception venue.
Register for gifts. Sign up at a minimum of three retailers.
Launch a wedding website. Create your personal page through a free provider such as weddingchannel.com. Note the date of the wedding, travel information, and accommodations. Then send the link to invitees