Think about the type of wedding you want:
- formal or informal
- big or small
- the time of year
- venue where you want it to take place
Hire wedding coordinator, if desired
Compile guest list, and organize addresses
Finalize wedding date
Reserve ceremony and reception sites
Choose attendants
Order dress and accessories, including veil and shoes
Book a wedding officiator
Book caterer
Order wedding cake
Book florist
Book music for ceremony and reception
Book photographer and videographer
Plan and book honeymoon
Send save-the-date cards, if using
Six months before the Wedding Date
Reserve rental equipment, such as tables, chairs, and tents
Arrange transportation for the wedding day
Order stationery, invitations thank-you notes
Book a calligrapher, if plan on using this type of service
Register for gifts
Purchase wedding rings
Purchase or reserve groom's attire
Choose attendants' attire
Buy stockings and any special lingerie your dress requires
Choose favors
Book a room for wedding night
Choose gifts for wedding party
Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests
Sign up for dance lessons
Two to Four months before the Wedding Date
Discuss details of menu with caterer
Discuss service with your officiator
Choose readings for ceremony
Write your wedding vows, if you choose
One to Two months before the Wedding Date
Buy guest book
Have programs printed
If your state requires blood tests, make appointments
Obtain marriage license, and request certified copies
If you intend to change your name, prepare the necessary documents
Send change-of-address information to post office.
Contact local newspapers about publishing wedding announcement.
Two Weeks before the Wedding Date
Have final dress fitting with shoes, accessories, and lingerie
Begin seating plan, and write place cards
Notify caterer of guest count
Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception
Address announcements
Break in wedding shoes at home
Designate a house sitter for while you are on your honeymoon
Find out where your guests will be staying
If you plan to deliver welcome notes or gifts to their rooms
One Week before the Wedding Date
Finalize seating plan
Assign specific responsibilities:
Who will be handing out corsages and boutonnieres, to members of your wedding party?
Pick up dress or have it delivered
Confirm details with caterer
Confirm honeymoon arrangements
Give your itinerary to a friend or family member in case of emergency
Pack for honeymoon
Update caterer with final guest and vendor meal counts
One Day before the Wedding
Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception
Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding
Have manicure and pedicure
Rehearse ceremony
Hold rehearsal dinner
Give gifts to wedding party
If you choose, give gifts to parents to thank them for their support
Prepare tip and payment envelopes for officiator and vendors
Make arrangements for someone to distribute tips and payments
The Day of the Wedding
Congratulations from Designer Weddings of Kansas City!
Enjoy Your Special Day!