Planning a wedding is exciting, but let’s be real—it can also feel overwhelming. With so many details to keep track of, it’s easy to wonder if you’re forgetting something important. That’s where a wedding planning checklist becomes a game-changer.
As an Austin wedding planner, I’ve guided countless couples through the planning process, ensuring every detail is handled with ease. Whether you’re just starting or knee-deep in decisions, having a clear roadmap will make the entire journey smoother.
This wedding planning checklist breaks everything down into manageable steps so you can stay organized and stress-free from the moment you say “yes” to the moment you say “I do.” Let’s get to planning your champagne-poppin’ party!
12+ Months Out
The early stages of wedding planning are all about the big-picture decisions. This is the time to set your budget, define your vision, and book your most important vendors. The sooner you lock in these details, the smoother everything else will be.
The first steps to check off your wedding planning checklist are:
- Set your wedding budget and determine who is contributing.
- Create a rough guest list to get an idea of your venue needs.
- Choose your wedding date and be flexible with a few options.
- Book your venue—this will set the tone for everything else.
- Hire a wedding planner or coordinator if you want professional guidance.
- Start researching and booking priority vendors like your photographer, videographer, and caterer.
- Decide on your wedding style and colors to guide your design choices.
- Begin brainstorming your wedding party and ask them to stand by your side.
At this stage, things might feel overwhelming, but taking your time with these foundational decisions will save you stress later. Booking vendors early also ensures you get your top choices before they’re booked out!
The last thing you want while planning your wedding is unnecessary stress from avoidable mistakes. Check out these common pitfalls couples face—and learn how to sidestep them for a smooth, unforgettable celebration! Read more.
9-12 Months Out: Bringing Your Vision to Life
Now that your major vendors and venue are secured, it’s time to focus on the fun details that make your wedding unique. From attire to decor, this phase is about bringing your vision to life.
- Choose your wedding dress and start the alteration process early.
- Research and book your florist, DJ or band, and rental companies.
- Decide on catering details—will you have a plated dinner, buffet, or food stations?
- Start thinking about your wedding website and save-the-dates.
- Plan your engagement photos and schedule your session.
- Think about guest accommodations and reserve hotel blocks if needed.
- If you’re doing a destination wedding, send save-the-dates now.
This is also a great time to start creating a wedding mood board to keep your aesthetic cohesive. The more details you have in place now, the easier decision-making will be as the big day approaches!
6-9 Months Out: The Important Details
You’re officially halfway through the planning process! Now is the time to focus on attire, invitations, and locking in final vendors.
- Choose bridesmaids’ dresses and groomsmen attire.
- Finalize your guest list and gather addresses for invitations.
- Book your officiant if you haven’t already.
- Decide on and book your hair and makeup artist.
- Plan and book transportation for the wedding party and guests if needed.
- Start thinking about ceremony details like readings, special traditions, or personalized vows.
- Research honeymoon destinations and book your trip.
At this point, it’s all about refining the details. The big pieces are in place, so now you can focus on making the wedding uniquely yours.
4-6 Months Out: Finalizing Vendors & Logistics
With just a few months to go, it’s time to finalize plans with vendors and confirm details that will ensure a smooth wedding day.
- Order your wedding invitations and plan to send them out soon.
- Book rentals like linens, specialty tables, or lounge furniture if needed.
- Schedule cake tastings and order your wedding cake.
- Create a wedding day timeline with your planner or coordinator.
- Finalize decor elements like signage, table settings, and lighting.
- Choose and purchase wedding bands.
- Begin planning your ceremony and reception music playlists.
The key to this phase of your wedding planning checklist is staying organized. Keeping track of what’s done and what still needs attention will help you stay on top of everything without feeling rushed.
2-4 Months Out: Making It All Official
The big day is getting closer! Now is the time to confirm final details and ensure all logistics are squared away.
- Send out wedding invitations and track RSVPs.
- Have your final wedding dress fitting and ensure accessories are ready.
- Confirm details with all vendors, including timeline and special requests.
- Start writing your vows if you’re doing personalized ones.
- Plan and schedule your bachelor/bachelorette party.
- Begin breaking in your wedding shoes to avoid discomfort on the big day.
At this stage, communication with vendors is key. Make sure everyone is on the same page so there are no surprises later.
1 Month Out: Wrapping Up the Details
The countdown is on and there’s only a few things left to cross off your wedding planning checklist! With one month left, it’s all about tying up loose ends and getting ready for the celebration.
- Apply for your marriage license and check local requirements.
- Finalize your seating chart and send it to your planner or venue.
- Confirm wedding timeline and distribute it to your wedding party.
- Have a final walkthrough with your planner and venue.
- Assign someone to handle tips and final payments on the wedding day.
- Pack your wedding day emergency kit with essentials like band-aids, a sewing kit, and breath mints.
One month out is all about making sure you’re prepared. Taking care of these last details now means a stress-free wedding week!
1 Week Out: It’s Almost Time!
The big day is almost here, and now it’s time to focus on relaxation, final check-ins, and packing for your honeymoon if you’re leaving right after the wedding.
- Get a fresh haircut or trim (but avoid major style changes).
- Confirm all vendor arrivals and final payments.
- Pack for your honeymoon if you’re leaving soon after.
- Have your rings cleaned so they’re sparkling for the big day.
- Rehearse your ceremony and enjoy your rehearsal dinner!
This is also a great time to unplug from planning stress and enjoy these last few days before you say “I do!”
Wedding Day: Celebrate & Soak It All In
The day is finally here! All that’s left to do is be present, enjoy every moment, and celebrate your love.
- Eat a good breakfast and stay hydrated.
- Allow extra time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed.
- Have a point person (planner, coordinator, or trusted friend) to handle last-minute details.
- Take deep breaths and soak it all in—it goes by fast!
- Most importantly, HAVE FUN and enjoy the celebration!
With the right wedding planning checklist, you can confidently step into your big day, knowing everything is taken care of.
How In Ink Helps You Tackle Your Wedding Planning Checklist
Planning a wedding is exciting, but keeping track of every detail can feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. From the moment you start planning to the final send-off, I help ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.
As an Austin wedding planner, my job is to make wedding planning feel effortless and fun—not like a second full-time job. Whether you need full-service planning or expert coordination in the final weeks, I’m here to make sure your wedding planning checklist gets checked off—without the stress.
Ways I Support You:
- Big-Picture Strategy: I help you define your vision, establish a realistic budget, and connect with top vendors.
- Timeline Management: I keep every detail on track so you can focus on the fun parts.
- Vendor Communication: From contracts to logistics, I keep everything organized so you don’t have to.
- Final Details & Wedding Day Coordination: I handle the last-minute tasks, making sure your wedding day unfolds exactly as planned.
Your wedding should feel effortless, not like a never-ending to-do list. With my help, you can relax knowing that every step is covered and every moment is handled with care.
Final Thoughts: Your Stress-Free Wedding Starts Here
Your wedding day should be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories—not stress over logistics. By following this wedding planning checklist, you’ll have a clear roadmap to guide you through every step. And if you want expert support along the way, I’d love to help make the process effortless and enjoyable.
Let’s create a wedding that reflects your story, your style, and your love—without the overwhelm. Check out my portfolio and reach out today to chat about how I can bring your dream day to life!
Photos By:
- Of The Wildflowers Photo
- Briana Purser Photography
