The 18-Month Wedding Planning Timeline: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning a wedding is an exhilarating experience that can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. With so many moving parts, it's essential to have a clear timeline to ensure you're on track and stress-free. Here's an 18-month wedding planning timeline to guide you through the process.

18 months before: Dream and Brainstorm

This is the time to imagine your perfect wedding day. Consider factors such as the time of year, location, theme, and size. Start browsing wedding websites and magazines for inspiration.

16 months before: Set a Budget and Start Guest List

Determine what you're willing and able to spend on your wedding. This will guide your choices throughout the planning process. Also, begin drafting your guest list.

15 months before: Choose Your Venue and Set a Date

Start visiting potential wedding venues that fit within your budget and align with your vision. Once you've chosen a location, you can set a wedding date.

14 months before: Hire Key Vendors

Some vendors such as photographers, bands, or DJs, get booked up fast, so it's a good idea to secure these early.

12 months before: Start Dress Shopping

The hunt for the perfect wedding dress can take time. You'll want to leave ample time for fittings and alterations.

11 months before: Arrange Accommodations

If you're hosting a lot of out-of-town guests or planning a destination wedding, you'll want to arrange a block of hotel rooms or other accommodations.

10 months before: Send Save-the-Dates

Let your guests know the wedding date and location with save-the-date cards, especially if it's a destination wedding or during a popular vacation time.

8 months before: Register and Plan Honeymoon

Register for gifts at your favorite stores and begin planning your honeymoon.

7 months before: Order Bridesmaid Dresses

Ensure there's plenty of time for your bridesmaids to order and alter their dresses.

6 months before: Book Cake Tasting and Florist

Taste various cake options and decide on your floral arrangements.

5 months before: Arrange Transportation

If you're providing transportation for guests, or need a car for the bridal party, now is the time to book it.

4 months before: Finalize Menu and Invitations

Work with your caterer to decide on the final menu and send out your wedding invitations.

3 months before: Order Wedding Rings and Plan Ceremony

Buy your wedding rings and start planning the specifics of your ceremony with your officiant.

2 months before: Confirm RSVPs and Send Rehearsal Dinner Invitations

Send out invites for the rehearsal dinner if you're having one (typically more a US kinda tradition) and confirm RSVPs for the wedding.

1 month before: Obtain Marriage License

Different places have different regulations about when to get your marriage license, so check the laws in your area.

3 weeks before: Final Fittings and Confirmations

Have your final dress fitting and confirm details with all your vendors.

2 weeks before: Write Vows and Finalise Seating

If you're writing your own vows, finish them up now. Also, create your seating chart based on RSVPs.

1 week before: Pack for Honeymoon and Prepare Payments

Pack for your honeymoon and prepare payments (and tips, in the US) for vendors.

The day before: Rehearse and Relax

Rehearse the ceremony with your wedding party, then try to relax and get a good night's sleep.

Your wedding day: Enjoy your day!

Remember that this timeline is just a guide. Every couple and every wedding is unique, so feel free to adjust as needed. Happy planning!