Free Wedding Planner Information for the Bride: The ultimate wedding planner checklist: a new bride’s guide to engagement, the ceremony, the honeymoon, and beyond! Print this list for your convenience!
You’re engaged: tell the news! What next? It can happen so quickly. One minute you are hoping he feels the same, then next minute, you are engaged and trying to get EVERYTHING done in a hurry! Take time to do it as you have always dreamed (even if the calendar date is soon approaching). Here are some helpful tips for getting it done efficiently and wonderfully!
Follow this checklist. We have established it in a unique manner, using phases rather than months. Some lists require you to do certain tasks 12 months, 9 months, 6 months, and 3 months before the wedding day. This can be constricting and confusing, especially if you only have 5 months to plan. If you do have a year, great! If not, no problem. Begin phase one immediately. Each phase has essential portions highlighted in bold (finalized details), and helpful links and suggestions to get you started.
Phase 1:
Announce your engagement to family and friends!
Bookmark this page and print out this free wedding planner checklist
print out our free budget planner
Get a “ballpark” figure for your budget.
Go shopping for a wedding dress- it is so much fun!
Ask friends or family for suggestions on local florists, photographers, videographers, stationery outlets, and musicians.
secure date of wedding
secure site of ceremony
secure reception location (be sure you have checked the date with anyone essential to you for your special day- is there a friend or family member who you must have at the wedding? Be sure they have not been planning a cruise or other travel on that date!).
Create a list of friends to invite for you and your fiance, and then get a general “ballpark” number of guests desired from both sets of parents.
Consider how large a bridal party you want (but be careful about asking anyone just yet!).
Buy a wedding planner
Join our discussion forum and share your engagement story!
Discuss possible wedding dates, and where you would like to have the ceremony.
Determine your wedding style: do you want formal/casual, indoor/outdoor, day/night
Get online and find out if there are any bridal shows in your area within your timeframe.
Visit a tuxedo rental site and get a feel for style options.
wedding coordinator. Is there one provided by the church or facility? Do you need to investigate and find one by yourself? We can help.
Make arrangements for premarital counseling, and visit your local bookstore for resources (we have a suggestion list for your consideration).
Consider who you want to officiate your ceremony.
Phase 2:
Tip: If you are planning your wedding on a tight budget, meet with more than one of your favorite florists, caterers, and photographers, and then compare what they offer by searching online to be sure you are getting a fair price for what they provide.
Print the phase 2 planner
Secure your wedding bridal party: ask the maid/matron of honor first, then the rest of your party.
Select and book your ceremony and reception location.
Make appointments and view works of local florists, caterers and photographers.
Order wedding invitations and all stationery items, and other catalog extras (wedding favors, etc.).
Purchase your wedding gown, accessories, and select bridesmaids dresses.
Visit bridal shows and “surf” online for ideas for wedding extras. Our wedding and marriage community blog can help you with unique ideas.
Book accomodations for out-of-town guests.
See our honeymoon planner and narrow down your selections. Check availability. Book your honeymoon.
Take engagement photo and send your announcement to the newspaper.
Compile wedding guest list and check with both families.
Select your wedding style and decor preferences.
Plan rehearsal dinner.
Create a bridal registry.
Select your photographer and videographer.
Select and finalize details with your florist and caterer (get contracts in writing).
Get your musicians reserved, and choose your ceremony and reception music.
Set up groomsmen tuxedo rentals and arrange for them to be measured.
Reserve your wedding night stay at a fancy local spot before leaving for your honeymoon (book early). Don’t tell anyone where you will stay if it is local.
Shop for your special wedding night lingerie.
Purchase wedding rings.
Complete premarital counseling.
Print the wedding programs and ensure all extras are ordered.
Phase 3:
Print phase 3 of the wedding planner Get your marriage license (at least 1 month ahead).
Confirm all arrangements with professionals.
Confirm all tuxedo measurements are completed.
Confirm all bridesmaids have been outfitted.
Enjoy your wedding shower(s).
Complete new living arrangements and move most of your items ahead of time.
Schedule a final wedding gown fitting.
Make arrangements for wedding gifts to be taken to your new home.
Investigate name change procedure for your state, and open a joint checking account (if desired).
Re-confirm all details. Give final head counts to caterers.
Plan reception seating and decor.
Schedule any hair and nail appointments early.
Mail out wedding invitations (about 1 month before the wedding).
Have the groom arrange for special transportation from the wedding reception (limo service, horse-drawn carriage ride, etc.).
Take bridal portrait, and repare wedding announcement (for after the wedding).
Purchase your gifts for each other (if any), and gifts for your wedding party and other family or friends who are helping.
Get plenty of rest and relax! Eat well!
The day arrives! Wedding, reception, and the honeymoon!