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The Ultimate 2026 Wedding Planning Timeline & Checklist

August 29, 2025

Hi, I'm sarah.
Hi there! Welcome to the SVH Photography blog, a journal about my work, life, travels, fashion, and style. Stay a while and say hello!
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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

Need a photographer who’s more than just someone behind a camera? I’d love to be part of your team. Click here to inquire about your date!

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I'm Sarah and I'm so happy you're here. This blog a journal about my work, my life, travels, fashion, and style. Stay a while and say hello!

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