Wedding Countdown

12 months ahead (or earlier)

• Determine wedding style and colour
• Set a date
• Set a budget
• Determine number of guests
• Reserve a venue for the reception
• Reserve a venue for the ceremony
• Hire an event/wedding coordinator (if you choose)
• Have an engagement party

9-11 months ahead

• Book your caterer (see select your caterer guidelines)
• Book florist
• Book photographer and videographer

6-8 months ahead

• Determine Menu
• Book rentals
• Book main reception entertainment
• Start planning reception details (décor etc.)
• Book wedding cake (if the caterer is not providing)
• Book transportation
• Buy wedding gown
• Register for gifts

4-5 months ahead

• Make honeymoon arrangements
• Rent/buy formalwear
• Order invitations
• Order wedding bands

3 months ahead

• Complete the guest list
• Mail invitations
• Finalize reception arrangements

At this point you will not have you exact number of guests because the invitations have just gone into the mail. When making rental and catering arrangements we recommend reserving for your maximum number of guests, numbers can be reduced closer to the date once RSVP’s have been received.

*maximum number of guests – assuming all guests that received an invitation will attend.

1-2 months ahead

• Arrange for marriage license
• Book hair stylist and make up
• Finalize details for post wedding brunch (this will include rentals and catering etc)
• Finalize details for the rehearsal dinner (this will include a venue, menu and perhaps rentals)
• Purchase gifts for attendants and parents
• Finalize florals (confirm availablility of all florals and confirm the delivery or pick up details)

1-2 weeks ahead

• Final dress fitting
• Call guest who have not RSVP’d
• Finalize number of guests with the rental company (require a minimum 48 hours notice for all changes)
• Finalize number of guests with the caterer (require a minimum of 72 hours notice depending on the menu)
• Confirm all details with those providing professional services ie. florist, photographer etc.
• Finalize seating arrangements
• Confirm receipt of marriage license
• Determine day of assignments for wedding party and friends.

1-2 Days ahead

• Arrange for rental items to arrive so set up can begin (if the venue permits)
• Pick up formal wear
• Have rehersal dinner
• Pack for the honeymoon
• Set aside tips for vendors

Your Wedding Day

• Eat a big breakfast or lunch
• Relax and enjoy the festivities

Post Wedding Follow Up

• Write wedding thank yous
• Follow up with all vendors