How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming — until you break it into steps. Here's a simple, ordered checklist that keeps you on track from the first decision to the final dance.

12+ months before

• Set your budget and agree who contributes.
• Draft a rough guest list — it drives the venue size and cost.
• Choose a season or date and shortlist venues.

9–12 months before

• Book the venue and lock the date.
• Reserve key vendors: photographer, music, catering.
• Decide your style and colors.

6–9 months before

• Finalize the guest list and collect addresses (or phone numbers for digital invites).
• Order or design your invitations.
• Plan the ceremony and reception flow.

3–6 months before

• Send your invitations and start tracking RSVPs.
• Arrange attire, rings and transport.
• Build the schedule for the day.

1–2 months before

• Chase any missing RSVPs and confirm the final headcount.
• Share the schedule and directions with guests.
• Confirm details with every vendor.

The final week

• Give the venue the final numbers and seating plan.
• Prepare an emergency kit and a point person for questions.
• Breathe — and enjoy it.

Make the invitations and RSVPs the easy part

The guest list and RSVPs are where most couples lose time. A digital invitation collects confirmations automatically, shows a live headcount, and keeps everyone informed with one link. Start your wedding invitation and tick the biggest box off your list today.