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 favourite.
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 your dress. You’ll need to schedule time for at least three fittings.
Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Pick three hotels at different price points close to the reception venue.
Register your gift list.
Select and purchase invitations.
Start planning your honeymoon. Make sure that your passports are up-to-date, and schedule doctors’ appointments for any shots you may need.
Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses. Allow at least six months for the dresses to be ordered and sized.
Meet with the celebrant. Discuss if you would like to write your own vows.
Send save-the-date cards.
Book a florist.
Arrange transportation.
Start composing a day-of timeline. Draw up a schedule of the event and slot in each component (the cake-cutting, the first dance).
Seven to six months before
Select and purchase invitations.
Start planning your honeymoon. Make sure that your passports are up-to-date, and schedule doctors’ appointments for any shots you may need.
Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses. Allow at least six months for the dresses to be ordered and sized.
Meet with the celebrant. Discuss if you would like to write your own vows.
Send save-the-date cards.
Book a florist.
Arrange transportation.
Start composing a day-of timeline. Draw up a schedule of the event and slot in each component (the cake-cutting, the first dance).
Five to four months before
Book the rehearsal and rehearsal-dinner venues. Negotiate the cost and the menu. If you’re planning to host a day-after brunch for guests, book that as well.
Check on the wedding invitations. Ask the stationer for samples of the finished invitations and revise them to suit your needs.
Select and order the cake. Some bakers require a long lead-time. Attend several tastings before committing to any baker.
Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings. Bring the shoes along to your first fitting so the tailor can choose the appropriate length for your gown.
Schedule hair and make-up artists. Make a few appointments with local experts to try them out. Snap a photo at each so you can compare results.
Choose your music. What should be playing when the wedding party is announced? During dinner? To kick off the dancing? Keep a running list of what you would like played.