Are you getting married soon? If so, congratulations! Wedding planning can be a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun. We’ve put together a wedding planning checklist to help make the process a little easier. This checklist will guide you through the entire process by reminding you of things like deciding on a date, hiring a wedding photographer, and sending out thank-you cards. So whether you’re just starting to plan your wedding or in the final stages, check out this handy checklist!

Example of a Good Wedding Planning Checklist

A good wedding planning checklist should include everything from big tasks like booking a venue to small details like sending out save-the-dates. Here’s a look at some of the things that should be on your checklist:

1. Set a Date

Setting a date is one of the first things you’ll need to do when planning your wedding. Once you have a date in mind, you can start booking other vendors and making preparations.

If you’re not sure when you want to get married, consider these factors:

  • The time of year that you want to get married
  • The availability of your desired venue
  • Your work schedule
  • The schedules of your family and friends

Once you’ve set a date, be sure to put it in your wedding planning checklist so you can start crossing off other items!

2. Hire a Wedding Planner

You must also hire a wedding planner to help with the arrangements and coordination on your big day. Wedding planners are especially useful if you’re planning a destination wedding or a large-scale event. Be sure to interview several different planners before making your decision, and don’t forget to ask for referrals! Additionally, a planner can assist with budgeting, vendor negotiations, and ensuring that all logistical details are handled smoothly. This is especially important when planning a destination wedding, as managing bookings, local vendors, and travel arrangements from afar can be overwhelming. By working with a professional, you can focus on enjoying the lead-up to your special day without unnecessary stress.

Wedding planners can be costly, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to ask a friend or family member to help with the planning. Just be sure to put “hire a wedding planner” on your checklist so you don’t forget!

3. Book a Venue

You must also book a venue for your wedding. This is usually one of the first things you’ll need to do after setting a date. Wedding venues can book up quickly, so it’s important to reserve yours as soon as possible!

When choosing a venue, be sure to keep your budget in mind. Wedding venues can range from simple backyard weddings to grand ballrooms, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs and budget.

If you’re having trouble finding a venue, ask your wedding planner for help! They should be able to give you some great recommendations.

4. Hire a Photographer

You must also hire a photographer to capture your special day. Wedding photography is a very important part of your wedding, so be sure to choose a photographer.

When looking for a photographer, be sure to look at their portfolio and read reviews from past clients. You should also meet with them in person to get a feel for their style and personality.

It’s also important to decide what type of photography you want. Do you want traditional posed shots? Candid shots? A mix of both? Be sure to communicate your desires to your photographer so they can capture your wedding day just the way you’ve always dreamed it!

5. Send Out Save-the-Dates

You should also send out save-the-dates as soon as you have a date and venue booked. Save-the-dates are typically sent six to eight months before the wedding, so be sure to put this task on your checklist!

When ordering save-the-dates, be sure to order extras in case you make any mistakes. You should also consider having your save-the-dates professionally designed to match your wedding stationery.

6. Wedding Dress Shopping

Of course, you’ll also need to find the perfect wedding dress! Wedding dress shopping can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit overwhelming.

When shopping for your dress, be sure to bring along a trusted friend or family member. You should also make an appointment at a bridal salon so you can have someone help you with fittings.

Other things you should also remember to add to your checklist include the following:

  • Book a florist
  • Hire a band or DJ
  • Wedding cake tasting
  • Choose your bridal party
  • Make a guest list
  • Send out invitations
  • Wedding rehearsal and dinner
  • Wedding day! 

Congrats, you did it!

Bottom Line

Wedding planning can be very overwhelming, but taking it one step at a time and using a wedding planning checklist can help you stay organized and on track. Use this wedding planning checklist as your guide to ensure that you don’t forget any important details. You can always add or remove items from the list as needed. Just be sure to enjoy the process and have fun!