Planning a wedding is exciting – but without structure, it can quickly feel overwhelming. To help you stay on top of everything and prepare stress-free, we’ve created the ultimate wedding checklist. With these steps, you can plan your dream wedding with ease and clarity.
12-18 months before the wedding: the cornerstone of planning
- Set a budget: How much do you want to spend in total? Prioritize the location, catering, outfits and decorations.
- Create a guest list: Who should be there? The number of guests influences many decisions.
- Choose wedding date & location: Book early, especially if you want to get married on a popular date or at a popular location.
- Decide on a wedding style: classic, boho, vintage or modern? Decide on an overarching concept.
- Hire a wedding planner (optional): A professional can take a lot of work and stress off your hands.
9-12 months in advance: Secure service providers & plan details
- Book a photographer & videographer: The best ones are often booked up early, so enquire in good time.
- Select catering: Test the menu and determine the food style (buffet, seated dinner, finger food).
- Choose wedding dress & suit: Plan fittings, as alterations can take several months.
- Organize music & entertainment: Band, DJ or both? Also think about a playlist for the most important moments.
- Planning a wedding: civil, church or free wedding? Clarify dates and formalities early on.
6-9 months before: The wedding takes shape
- Discuss decorations & floristry: Determine color scheme, flower arrangements and table decorations.
- Involve the best man & bridesmaids: Clarify their duties and inform them about the process.
- Design wedding stationery: Save-the-date cards should be sent out, now comes the invitation.
- Plan your honeymoon: book your trip and check all the necessary documents.
- Outline the wedding schedule: When does the ceremony start, when is the food served, when does the party start?
3-6 months before: fine-tuning & organization
- Finalize suit & wedding dress: Finalize alterations and select accessories.
- Test make-up & hairstyle: Arrange a trial appointment with a stylist.
- Buy rings: Engraving desired? Then order early enough.
- Create a wedding website or program booklet: Helps guests find their way around.
- Organize transport & accommodation for guests: Especially important for a destination wedding.
1-3 months before: Final preparations
- Prepare menu cards, name tags & guest gifts
- Clarify final details with service providers
- Finalize the schedule for the wedding day
- Last fitting of dress & suit
- Writing wedding vows (optional)
1 week before: The countdown is on!
- Pack an emergency kit (blister plasters, sewing kit, handkerchiefs, make-up for touch-ups)
- Final arrangements with witnesses & service providers
- Get enough sleep & relax – the big day is coming soon!
Conclusion: A stress-free dream wedding with the right checklist
Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. With this checklist, you can stay on top of things and look forward to your big day with peace of mind. Stay organized, enjoy the anticipation – and celebrate your love the way you want to!
