From finding the perfect dress to choosing the menu, each detail matters when planning your wedding. To ensure you have the day of your dreams, staying organized is key. Below is a month-by-month breakdown of the steps you’ll need to take.

12 Months or More

Budget & Guest List

Figure out how much you can afford. Draft your guest list, since it affects budget and wedding venue choice. If you’ll be hiring a planner, do so now. 

Wedding Venues & Hotels

Tour venues that suit your style but accommodate your budget. Find a nearby hotel and reserve rooms for out-of-town guests.

10 to 11 Months

Vendors & Design

Hire essential vendors such as DJs, bands, photographers, videographers, and florists. Pick your color scheme, as this will impact your cake, floral arrangements, and clothing. 

The Dress

Settle on your dress a few weeks after shopping, and order it from the salon so you have enough time for fittings and to avoid rush shipping and alteration fees.

Invitations

Look through different invitation styles, and if you’re choosing customized invitations, speak with a stationer and calligrapher to begin the process.

7-9 Months

Save-the-Dates

Send out save-the-date cards or magnets so guests can mark their calendars.

Wedding Party

Select your wedding party. If they’ll be wearing matching bridesmaid dresses, schedule shopping.  

Officiant

Hire someone to conduct the ceremony, especially if it won’t be held at a religious location.

Rehearsal Dinner

Book a restaurant to host a rehearsal dinner the day before the wedding.

4-6 Months

Honeymoon

Decide on your honeymoon spot and make reservations. 

Transportation

Ensure you, your bridal party, and overnight guests have transportation to the wedding venue. Consider limos or party buses for attendants. Check with the hotel for shuttle service.

Tuxes

Rent or purchase tuxedos for the ushers and the groom. 

Tastings

Have a last tasting with the caterer and pick the design of your cake. 

Rings

Purchase your wedding bands to exchange on the big day.

2-3 Months Before

Invitation Mailing

Send invitations. Ensure the RSVP date is a month before the event, so you have time to finalize the headcount with your wedding venue.

Menu & Favors

Finalize the menu with your caterer and decide what favors, if any, you’ll give your guests.

Marriage License

Have your marriage license ready. Check with your municipality for local requirements. 

1 Month Before

Seating Chart & Place Cards

Organize your guest tables and create place cards. Ensure you have the floor plan from the wedding venue.

 

For a full-service event venue for your upcoming wedding, call Makoy Center. Located in Hilliard, OH, their private event center offers an array of amenities for your special day, including an ample parking area, onsite catering, and rooms to match your style and accommodate your guests. The wedding venue was also voted Best of Weddings on The Knot® for 2018. To find out more about their event space, call (614) 777-1211 or visit them online for a glimpse of their exciting location.