Most couples agree that it’s a long road to getting engaged. From first kiss to “Will you marry me?” you and your future spouse inevitably had to overcome at least a few hurdles along the way. With the nature of wedding planning, it may feel like an even longer road from getting down on one knee to saying “I do.” Thankfully, you can eliminate much of this stress simply by organizing and setting deadlines for yourself. Here’s a general guide for planning the biggest day of your life over the course of a year. 

9 to 12 Months Out 

The first step to planning a spectacular wedding is determining a budget. Once you know know how much you can spend, start touring venues within your price range.

Next comes the wedding date. Generally, the chosen venue will give you a selection of available dates to choose from. This will lead to the third step, which is hiring a caterer. Some venues offer catering on-site, while others bring in third parties. Either way, you’ll want to confirm the caterer is available on the actual date. 

Choose the guest list, determine the color scheme, and send out save-the-date cards. These will give out-of-town guests plenty of time to make their travel arrangements. 

6 to 9 Months Out

You should have the wedding party selected (and their attendance confirmed) eight to nine months out. Once you know who will be in the wedding, select their attire. If you haven’t already found your dress, now is also the time to make your purchase, as alterations could take a few months. 

While the venue and caterer are the most important vendors to pin down, you’ll want to reserve all the other contributors as far out as possible. These include the photographer, videographer, DJ, officiant, and florist. If the caterer won't be providing a cake, make sure a local bakery can do so. 

3 to 6 Months Out

When the wedding is six months away, book the venue for the rehearsal dinner and finalize the invitations. When it’s five months out, book your transportation for the day of—as well as any transportation you’ll be providing guests.

At four months away, you’ll want to have the registry finalized and the honeymoon booked. Meanwhile, make sure the wedding party attire is on track. Keep in mind, too, that most caterers host final tastings three to four months out. 

1 to 3 Months Out 

Your wedding coordinator will inevitably be on speed-dial by the time the wedding is three months away. At this point, let them take the lead so you don't get overwhelmed.

In addition to undergoing a hair and makeup trial, attending the final dress fitting, and confirming the groom’s tuxedo tailoring, you’ll spend the weeks leading up to the wedding finalizing the seating arrangements, taking care of DIY decorations, and tracking down guests who have yet to RSVP. 

When you and your future spouse are ready to choose the venue for your wedding, check out Makoy Center. Located in Hilliard, OH, this breathtaking venue has been hosting unforgettable events for more than three decades. A full-service facility, they can accommodate up to 450 guests in a single ballroom. To discuss your big day with their wedding planning coordinator, reach out online or call (614) 777-1211.