How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months (or Less!)

Think you need a year or more to plan a wedding? Think again! Planning a wedding in six months is totally possible with some flexibility and determination. With the right mindset and a well-organized checklist, planning a beautiful wedding in six months—or even less—is absolutely possible. Whether you’re planning a more intimate affair or simply don’t want a long engagement, here’s how to pull it off with confidence and ease.

How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months

Month 1: Set the Foundation

Nail Down the Basics
Before diving into the details, start with the essentials. Discuss your vision with your partner—formal or casual, big or small, destination or local. Decide what’s most important to each of you and use that to guide every decision.

Secure Your Budget
Know how much you can realistically spend, and who (if anyone) is contributing. This will drive your venue options, guest list size, and vendor choices.

Create Your Guest List
Make a rough draft of your guest list to get a sense of how many people you’re inviting. You’ll need this number to book your venue.

Book Your Venue
Availability is often the biggest hurdle in planning quickly, so start here. Be flexible with days (like Fridays or Sundays) and seasons if your dream venue is booked. Consider unique spots like restaurants, gardens, art galleries, or even family properties.

Month 2: Book Your Vendors

Find Your Core Vendors
Once the date and venue are set, start booking your non-negotiables:

• Photographer or videographer

• Caterer

• Florist

• Planner or day-of coordinator (if desired)

• Entertainment (band or DJ)

Reach out to multiple vendors quickly, and be ready to sign contracts and pay deposits to lock them in.

Choose Your Attire
For wedding dresses and formalwear, don’t delay. Many gowns take months to arrive, so shop ready-to-wear or look for trunk shows and sample sales. Tailoring timelines are tighter, so schedule fittings early.

Month 3: Finalize the Details

Send Save-the-Dates or Invitations
With a shorter planning timeline, you’ll likely skip traditional save-the-dates and send formal invitations earlier—about 8–10 weeks before the wedding. Consider digital invites for quicker RSVPs.

Plan the Ceremony
Secure your officiant and start discussing the ceremony structure. If you’re writing your own vows, this is a great time to start.

Shop for Wedding Party Attire
Whether you’re having bridesmaids, groomsmen, or anyone else by your side, make sure their outfits are chosen and ordered promptly.

Month 4: Design and Décor

Nail Down Your Theme and Aesthetic
Decide on colors, florals, and overall vibe. If you’re hiring a florist or designer, communicate your ideas clearly with inspiration photos or mood boards.

Rentals and Décor Items
Secure rentals such as tables, chairs, linens, and specialty items early—especially during peak seasons. Look into second-hand or DIY options if you’re keeping it budget-friendly.

Month 5: Prep and Confirm

Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
Lock in your beauty team and set up trial runs if you haven’t already. If you’re doing your own, gather and test products now.

Finalize Menu and Timeline
Meet with your caterer to confirm headcount and meal options. Share a draft timeline with all vendors so everyone is on the same page.

Order Small Details
Think: signage, favors, guestbook, escort cards, programs, and other personal touches. These items add character, but can be simplified if you’re short on time.

Month 6: The Final Countdown

Confirm Everything with Vendors
Reach out to confirm final details, delivery times, and balances. Send your timeline and contact list to your planner or point person.

Apply for Your Marriage License
Every state has different rules and waiting periods, so check your local requirements and deadlines.

Organize Day-Of Essentials
Prepare a wedding day emergency kit, pack your getting-ready items, and write thank-you notes for your vendors and wedding party.

Enjoy Your Wedding
Take a deep breath. You made it happen! Now it’s time to celebrate and soak in every moment.

Plan a Wedding in Less Than 6 Months with Nearlywed

Planning a wedding in six months may seem overwhelming, but with streamlined priorities and smart decisions, it totally can be done! Be flexible with your wedding venues & vendors, and get everything booked as soon as you can. If you need more resources on wedding planning, we’ve got thousands of articles to help ensure you big day goes forward exactly as you have dreamed!

Explore wedding planning blogs.

Fashion & beauty blogs for wedding planning. 

View Real Weddings for inspiration. 

View our best wedding planning resources and guides.