Planning a wedding is like preparing for the most epic party of your life. It’s filled with excitement, a whole lot of love, and sometimes a bit of stress. However, a well-structured wedding timeline will ensure your big day goes off without a hitch and totally stress-free. We’ve created the ultimate guide to make your wedding planning journey smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding: The Dream Begins
Welcome to the beginning of your wedding adventure! This is the time to let your imagination run wild and start shaping your vision. While most venues require booking 12-18 months before your desired date, the Bradford Estate can often accommodate shorter-term bookings.
Choose Your Date and Venue
First things first, pick a date that resonates with both of you. It could be an anniversary, a favorite season, or maybe you’re fine with simply picking a random Saturday. Once you have a date, start scouting venues. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand ballroom or an intimate garden, book your venue as early as possible to secure the perfect spot. Also, be sure to inquire about potential special dates! Occasionally, a venue like The Bradford Estate will have a date that slips through the cracks. These dates may be available for short timeframes and could be discounted!
Set a Budget
Let’s talk budget. It might not be the most romantic part of planning, but it’s crucial. Sit down together and decide how much you’re willing and able to spend. Consider what’s most important to you whether it’s the photographer, flowers, or DJ. Whatever the case may be, allocate your funds accordingly.
Hire a Wedding Planner
If the idea of planning every detail feels overwhelming, consider hiring a wedding planner. They can help turn your vision into reality without all of the stress. Or pick a venue that offers all-inclusive wedding packages that can streamline the planning process and provide valuable recommendations for additional services as well as onsite wedding coordinators.
Start Your Guest List
Make a rough draft of your guest list. This will help you choose a venue that fits everyone comfortably and gives you a ballpark figure for your budget.
9-12 Months Before the Wedding: The Planning Stage
Things are getting real! This is the stop on the wedding timeline where you start locking in the key elements of your wedding.
Book Your Vendors
Photographers, florists, entertainment, oh my! Start meeting with potential vendors and book the ones that fit your style and budget. Remember, the best ones get booked early, so don’t delay! Most venues will also provide a list of recommended vendors, so you can make sure you’re choosing the best of the best.
Choose Your Wedding Attire
Finding the perfect wedding attire is a momentous part of your planning journey. Whether you envision a classic white gown, a tailored suit, or something entirely unique, the key is to select an outfit that makes you feel your best. Once you find “the perfect outfit,” you’ll just know!
Send Save-the-Date Cards
Let your guests know to mark their calendars. Save-the-dates are a fun way to get everyone excited and ensure they’re available for your big day.
Book Accommodations
If you have out-of-town guests, reserve a block of rooms at a nearby hotel. It’s a thoughtful gesture that makes their trip easier.
6-9 Months Before the Wedding: The Excitement Builds
Now that you have the major pieces in place, it’s time to start fine-tuning the details.
Finalize Your Guest List and Send Invitations
It’s time to make the guest list official and send out those beautiful invitations. Don’t forget to include RSVP instructions.
Choose Wedding Party Attire
Pick out the attire for your wedding party. The trend has shifted away from having the wedding party all wear the same style of attire. Using your wedding colors, allow them to choose a style that makes them feel comfortable and confident as they stand with you at the ceremony and celebrate with you at the reception. If outfits have to be ordered, make sure everyone gets fitted and orders on time.
Plan Your Honeymoon
After the wedding comes the honeymoon! Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach or a European adventure, start planning now and book your trip. Consider activities that you both enjoy and create a balance between relaxation and adventure. Early planning ensures you get the best deals and can secure reservations at popular destinations
Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
You want to look your best on your wedding day. Whether that means professional hair and makeup or you are more comfortable doing your own, make sure to plan a couple of trial runs to find the perfect look for your special day.
3-6 Months Before the Wedding: The Finishing Touches
You’re more than halfway through the wedding timeline! Get ready to nail down the final details.
Order Your Cake
Schedule tastings and choose a cake that looks as good as it tastes. Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors and designs.
Finalize Your Menu
Work with your caterer or wedding venue to create a menu that will delight your guests. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure there’s something for everyone.
Arrange Transportation
How are you and your wedding party getting to the venue? Book transportation early to ensure everyone arrives in style and on time.
Purchase Wedding Rings
This is one of the most symbolic parts of the wedding. Choose rings that reflect your style and will stand the test of time.
1-3 Months Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown
The big day is just around the corner. Here’s what you need to do to ensure everything is ready.
Apply for Your Marriage License
This might be the least glamorous task, but it’s essential. Check your local requirements and apply for your marriage license. Don’t forget a witness!
Finalize the Seating Chart
Decide who sits where and create a seating chart. It’s like solving a giant puzzle, but it’s worth it for a smooth reception. Remember to organize your seating chart in alphabetical order instead of by table number, this makes it easier and faster for your guests to find their name
Confirm Details with Vendors
Touch base with all your vendors to confirm arrival times, services, and any last-minute changes.
Schedule Your Final Fitting
Make sure your wedding attire fits perfectly. This is your last chance to make any adjustments.
1 Month Before the Wedding: The Home Stretch
You’re almost there! This month is all about tying up loose ends on the wedding timeline and getting ready to say “I do.”
Send Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Let your wedding party and close family know where and when the rehearsal dinner will be. It’s a great time to unwind before the big day.
Prepare Wedding Day Emergency Kits
Pack kits with essentials like safety pins, a mini sewing kit, band-aids, pain relievers, snacks, and mints. These small items can be lifesavers on the big day.
1 Week Before the Wedding: The Final Touches
The excitement is at its peak! This week is all about the little details and enjoying the anticipation.
The Wedding Day Timeline
Create a detailed timeline of the day’s events and share it with your bridal party and vendors. This helps everyone stay on track.
Ensure All Payments Are Made
Confirm that all your vendors have been paid and gratuities are set aside. That way you can relax and just enjoy your special day.
Pack for Your Honeymoon
Don’t leave packing until the last minute. Make sure you have everything you need for your post-wedding getaway and all you have to do when the party is over is grab your bags and go.
Take Care of Yourself
Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and take some time to relax. You want to be at your best on your wedding day.
Bradford Estate – The Perfect Start to Your Wedding Timeline
Ready to bring your wedding dreams to life at The Bradford Estate? Our expert team is here to help you plan every detail, ensuring your big day is everything you’ve always imagined. Contact us today to schedule a visit and start your wedding planning journey with us.