Planning a wedding is a long process, but when the big day arrives, all of that effort results in an unforgettable celebration. From catering and venues to entertainment and transportation services, there are many details to take care of. Use the booking timeline below as soon as you get engaged to plan the perfect ceremony and reception.

When to Book Vendors for Your Wedding

12-10 Months in Advance

About one year before your preferred wedding date, hire a planner and secure the venues. A wedding planner assists you throughout the whole process, offering expert advice and helping you make the right decisions. Searching for venues a year in advance also ensures you can secure your desired date.

If the venue doesn’t offer catering, book food services at least 10 months before the wedding. This gives caterers ample time to plan and schedule taste testings with you and your fiancee. Also, if the guest list changes along the way, you can warn them in advance.

Use this stage to book professional photographers, videographers, and florists as well.

9-7 Months in Advance

Live music keeps guests entertained during the reception. If you have a DJ or band in mind, reach out to them nine months before the wedding to make sure they’re available.

Most wedding dresses take months to alter, so if you’re working with a tailor, start your dress search around eight months before the big day. At this time, you should also book a few rooms at nearby hotels if some guests require lodging.

6-4 Months in Advance

Once you hit the halfway mark, focus on the finer details. Book a hairstylist and makeup artist, and schedule trial runs for each service a few months before the wedding. If the venue and caterer don’t offer rentals, such as chairs, tables, linens, and dishware, research rental companies.

You don’t have to send out invitations until six to eight weeks before the wedding date. However, hire a stationer six months early to allow time for designing, addressing, assembling, and shipping. Any tuxedos or suits should be rented and tailored at this time as well.

With five months to go, reserve reliable transportation services to get guests to and from hotels, reception venues, and the ceremony. Urban Sherpa Travel offers comfortable charter services for weddings in New York and New Jersey. Their professional drivers will work with your itinerary to ensure your big day is flawless. Visit their website for more information about transportation services, or call (917) 692-5222 to reserve a charter bus.