Wedding Planning Timeline: When to Book Your Wedding Vendors

So, you’re engaged—cue the confetti! Now comes the part where you turn your dream wedding Pinterest board into reality. But between choosing a venue, finding the perfect dress, and deciding whether to have a donut wall (hint: yes, always yes), it can be overwhelming to figure out when to book everything. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Follow this timeline to keep your wedding planning stress-free and oh-so organized!

Photo by Lindsey Billings Photography

Wedding Planning Timeline: When to Book Your Wedding Vendors

12+ Months Before the Wedding: The Big Stuff

This is where the magic begins! As soon as you set a date, start tackling the most important (and often most in-demand) vendors first.

✅ Book Your Venue – Popular venues book up fast—sometimes even two years in advance! If you have your heart set on a specific place, lock it in ASAP. Your venue will dictate your wedding date and set the tone for everything else.

✅ Hire a Wedding Planner (if using one) – A planner can be a lifesaver when it comes to coordinating vendors, negotiating contracts, and keeping your stress levels in check. If you’re going the DIY route, start researching planning tools and checklists.

✅ Choose Your Wedding Party – Time to pop the question to your bridesmaids and groomsmen! Give them plenty of time to say yes, plan their outfits, and get excited.

Photo by Kendall Aubrey Photo

9-12 Months Before: Lock in the Essentials

With your venue secured, it’s time to start filling in the other key players.

✅ Book Your Photographer & Videographer – These pros book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. If you want jaw-dropping photos (and let’s be honest, you do), don’t wait too long to book your dream team.

✅ Find Your Caterer – If your venue doesn’t provide catering, start taste-testing options now. (Bonus: This is probably the most delicious part of planning!)

✅ Say Yes to the Dress! – Wedding dress shopping is so much fun, but it also takes time. Many gowns require alterations and can take months to arrive, so start early to avoid last-minute stress.

✅ Reserve Hotel Blocks – If you have out-of-town guests, securing hotel blocks early ensures they’ll have convenient (and possibly discounted) lodging.

Photo by Jean Smith Photography

6-9 Months Before: The Fun Details

Now that the big decisions are made, it’s time to focus on the details that make your wedding uniquely you.

✅ Book the DJ or Band – Music sets the mood, so whether you want a live band, a DJ, or a killer playlist, book your entertainment now.

✅ Choose Your Florist – Love lush greenery or a bold color palette? Meet with florists to bring your vision to life.

✅ Order Bridesmaid Dresses – Your wedding party needs time to order and alter their dresses, so don’t leave this too late!

✅ Start Thinking About Your Honeymoon – If you’re traveling abroad, check passport expiration dates and start browsing destinations.

Photo by Rosy & Shaun Weddings

4-6 Months Before: The Pretty and Personal Touches

At this point, things are getting real! Time to start finalizing details and making some fun choices.

✅ Send Save-the-Dates – If you haven’t already, now’s the time! Especially for a destination wedding, guests need time to plan.

✅ Book Hair & Makeup Artists – You want to look flawless on your big day, so schedule a trial session to test out different styles.

✅ Schedule Your Cake Tasting – Possibly the best appointment ever. Pick flavors and finalize your dream wedding cake design.

✅ Plan Your Ceremony & Officiant – Whether you’re hiring a professional officiant or asking a friend, make sure they’re on board and have time to prepare.

Photo by Hetler Photography

2-4 Months Before: The Final Countdown Begins!

You’re getting so close! Now’s the time to make sure everything is falling into place.

✅ Mail Invitations – Give your guests plenty of time to RSVP so you can finalize your headcount.

✅ Plan Your Menu & Bar – Work with your caterer to finalize the meal and drink selection.

✅ Buy Wedding Bands – Find rings you love and allow time for any necessary resizing or engraving.

✅ Schedule Dress Fittings – Your first fitting should be around this time, with a final one closer to the big day.

Photo by Jean Smith Photography

1 Month Before: It’s Getting Real

The finish line is in sight! Use this month to tie up loose ends and breathe easy.

✅ Get Your Marriage License – This is kind of important. Check your state’s requirements and make it official.

✅ Confirm Details with All Vendors – Double-check arrival times, final payments, and any last-minute changes.

✅ Create Your Seating Chart – Once RSVPs are in, arrange seating to keep the vibe fun and drama-free.

✅ Break in Your Shoes – Nobody wants blisters on the dance floor!

Photo by Molly Grunewald and Company

The Week of the Wedding: You Made It!

It’s time to soak it all in and get so excited for the best day ever.

✅ Pack a Wedding Day Emergency Kit – Include essentials like safety pins, tissues, mints, and comfy flats.

✅ Get a Fresh Mani & Pedi – Treat yourself!

✅ Pick Up Your Dress – Bring it home and store it somewhere safe.

✅ RELAX & ENJOY! – You’ve done the work—now it’s time to celebrate and marry your person! ❤️

Photo by Shanell Photography