Feeling Overwhelmed? Start Here.
You just got engaged—congrats! Now comes the fun (and sometimes chaotic) part: planning a wedding. If you’ve already typed “wedding planning checklist” into Google at 2 a.m., you’re not alone. As a wedding photographer who’s been part of hundreds of love stories, I’ve seen the good, the stressful, and the beautifully organized. This isn’t just another to-do list, it’s a real-world roadmap for making the process feel a little more manageable. Taking it step by step will reduce overwhelm and give you the confidence to know you’re making strides in your planning!
12+ Months Out
- Set your budget
- Create your guest list
- Book your venue (dates go fast!)
- Book your photographer (yes, this early—popular dates book up 12–18 months out!)

10–11 Months Out
- Hire planner (if using one)
- Book major vendors: florist, band/DJ, caterer
- Start dress shopping

8 Months Out
- Engagement session (10/10 recommend, it’s such a great way to get comfy with your photographer)
- Finalize guest list
- Reserve hotel blocks

6–7 Months Out
- Send Save the Dates (the caveat to this would be for destination weddings or weddings on a holiday weekend. In that case I would send them out about 9 months in advance!)
- Order attire for wedding party
- Plan honeymoon

4 Months Out
- Finalize ceremony details
- Create timeline with photographer
- Schedule hair/makeup trials

2–3 Months Out
- Send invitations
- Final walk-through at venue
- Finalize timeline with your photographer (aka your fav vendor ;))

1 Month Out
- Final RSVP count
- Final dress fitting
- Photography questionnaire & final payment
1 Week Out
- Pack your wedding day bag
- Confirm details with all vendors
- Breathe—you’ve got this

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