6 Month Wedding Planning Timeline and Checklist

Planning a wedding in six months can feel overwhelming, but with the right timeline, it’s completely doable!

In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to keep you on track, from booking vendors to finalizing the details.

Something to keep in mind…You do not need to do everything that is on this list just becasue it’s there. These are just recommendations and are not meant to be “must-dos” or “must-haves.”

Looking for even more tips and advice? Be sure to check out my other article, “How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months,” for helpful insights to make your planning stress-free (It’s like a part 2 to this post).

Let’s get started!

6 Months Before the Wedding: Build the Foundation

Planning a wedding in six months can feel like a lot, but trust me…it’s manageable. The key is to tackle just 1-2 tasks at a time. Complete each one before moving on to the next for quick wins that keep you motivated and organized.

Set a Budget and Start Your Guest List

• Decide on Your Budget: Determine your total wedding budget and identify who is contributing. Use a budgeting tool or spreadsheet to track every expense.
• Draft a Guest List: Begin with a preliminary list with your fiancé. Discuss with parents if they’ll be inviting guests. Remember, guest count affects your overall budget for food, seating, and venue.

Book the Venue

• Secure Your Venue Early: Venues book quickly, so this should be one of your first tasks.
• Stay Flexible: Consider weekdays, Fridays, or Sundays to open up more options.
• Tour and Decide Quickly: Visit potential venues and make a decision to lock in your date. Explore non-traditional options like backyards, restaurants, or art galleries.

Related blog post: 25 non-traditional wedding venues for all budgets

Hire Key Vendors

• Book High-Demand Vendors: Focus on vendors that fill up quickly…photographer, videographer, florist, caterer, and DJ/officiant.
• Ask About Discounts: Look for savings on off-season or non-Saturday weddings.
• Research Reviews: Spend time reading reviews to ensure you book reliable professionals.

Pro tip: Join and post in local wedding planning Facebook groups. In your post, let vendors know what you’re looking for and your maximum budget. Vendors who are available will reach out to you quickly. This can cut down the stress of messaging vendors individually.

Shop for Wedding Attire

• Find Your Dress: Start shopping immediately. Look for ready-to-wear options or dresses from sample sales to avoid long shipping times.
• Plan for Fittings: Schedule fittings closer to your wedding date to ensure a perfect fit.

Create a Wedding Website

• Include Key Details: Share your date, venue, maps, dress code, and registry information.
• Go Live Before Save-the-Dates: Make the website live before sending save-the-dates so guests can easily access details.

Send Save-the-Dates

• Choose a Format: Use digital save-the-dates for speed.
• Add Your Website Link: Include your wedding website link for more details.

Plan Your Honeymoon

• Decide Early: Choose your destination and budget.
• Book Flights and Hotels: Secure accommodations and flights as soon as possible to save money and guarantee availability.

Start Your Wedding Registry

• Pick What You Love: Select items from stores you enjoy. A registry is a great way to make gift-giving easier for guests.

Schedule an Engagement Photo Session

• Use the Photos: These pictures are perfect for save-the-dates, your wedding website, or even home decor.
• Do a DIY session if needed: Don’t worry about using a professional photographer for engagement photos. Set up your phone on a small tripod or have a friend/family take some cute photos.

Book Hotel Room Blocks

• Reserve for Guests: Arrange hotel room blocks for out-of-town guests.
• Negotiate Discounts: Many hotels offer reduced rates for large groups.

Pro Tip:

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with so many tasks at once. Focus on finishing just one or two things at a time. Crossing items off your list will help you feel accomplished and stay on track.

***Don’t forget to download my free checklist at the end of this post to keep everything organized!

5 Months Before the Wedding: Build Your Vision

At five months out, you’re starting to see your wedding day take shape. This phase is all about bringing your vision to life and locking in the details.

Assemble Your Wedding Party

• Choose Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Ask your closest friends and family to stand by your side.
• Plan Attire: Select bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits. Ready-to-wear options or a cohesive color palette can save time.
• Place Orders: Take measurements and order dresses, suits, or rentals early to avoid rush fees.

Pro tip: Consider a small wedding party or no wedding party at all. My wife and I only had a best man and Maid of Honor. We loved having the smaller wedding party and it was much easier to manage during the planning process.

Send Save-the-Dates (Optional)

• Decide if You Need Them: If your timeline is tight, skip save-the-dates and send invitations earlier instead.
• Use Digital Options: For quick turnaround, opt for digital save-the-dates/invitations or services like Minted or Shutterfly.

Book Transportation

• Arrange Travel: Secure transportation for you, your wedding party, and guests.

Reserve Hotel Room Blocks

• Secure Accommodations: Reserve rooms for out-of-town guests, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Negotiate Discounts: Many hotels offer reduced rates for group bookings.

Pro tip: Make sure that you room block is a courtesy block. This is where the hotel will hold rooms for a certain amount of days but you won’t get charged for unbooked rooms.

Plan Decor and Rentals

• Choose Simplified Decor: Focus on easy-to-manage options that fit your style.
• Reserve Rentals: Book essential items like tables, chairs, and linens early to ensure availability.

Book an Officiant

• Lock It In: Confirm availability and secure your officiant now to avoid last-minute stress.

Plan Your Reception Menu

• Meet with Caterer: Finalize food and beverage options. Take dietary restrictions and guest preferences into account.

Order Invitations

• Pick Your Design: Choose a style that complements your wedding theme.
• Order Extras: Always have a few extra invitations for mistakes or last-minute additions.
• Consider Going Digital: Digital invitations are becoming more and more popular with couples. You could also order just a few paper invites for yourself, parents, grandparents, etc. and then send digital invites the rest of your guests to save money.

Shop for Wedding Bands

• Start Early: Allow time for customizations, engraving, or sizing adjustments.

Book Additional Vendors

• Hair and Makeup: Secure stylists for yourself and your wedding party.
• Specialty Vendors: Consider extras like photo booths, lighting, or live entertainment.

Book Your Rehearsal Dinner Venue

• Decide the Host: Figure out who is going to host the dinner (pay for it). Traditionally, the groom’s family paid for the dinner but times have changed. So do whatever fits your situation.
• Choose a Venue: Opt for a restaurant or hotel to simplify planning.

4 Months Before the Wedding: Fill in the Gaps

With four months to go, it’s time to focus on smaller details and creative touches that will make your wedding unique. Break these tasks into manageable chunks and keep checking things off the list.

Finalize Wedding Attire

• Dress Fittings: Schedule alterations to ensure your dress fits perfectly.
• Accessories: Purchase veil, shoes, jewelry, and any other accessories.
• Wedding Party Attire: Confirm orders for bridesmaids’ dresses and groomsmen’s suits.

Plan Ceremony Details

• Work with Officiant: Finalize the order of your ceremony.
• Choose Vows: Decide whether to write personal vows or stick to traditional ones.

Create Music Playlists

• Select Key Songs: Choose music for important moments like the processional, first dance, and reception entrance.

Order Ceremony Programs

• Match Your Theme: Design programs that complement your wedding style and colors.

Start DIY Projects

• Craft Simple Decor: Begin working on any DIY items like centerpieces, signs, or favors.
• Stay Realistic: Focus on projects you can complete without added stress.

Plan Your Honeymoon (If not already done from the previous 2 months)

• Book Travel: Finalize flights and accommodations.
• Explore Options: Look into nearby destinations if you’re on a budget or pressed for time.

Pro tip: The four-month mark is perfect for tackling creative and fun tasks. Take breaks when needed, and don’t be afraid to delegate to friends or family who want to help!

3 Months Before the Wedding: Fine-Tune the Details

At three months out, it’s time to focus on finalizing plans and tying up loose ends. This is where the fun begins…cake tastings, invitations, and trying out your wedding-day look. Take it step by step, and enjoy the process!

Finalize Menu and Cake

• Menu Tastings: Confirm your catering details and sample menu options to finalize your selections.
• Choose Your Cake: Attend a cake tasting and select your design and flavors.

Send Invitations

• Mail Invitations: Send out your wedding invitations 8-12 weeks before the big day.
• Include RSVP Cards: Set an RSVP deadline for 6-8 weeks before the wedding to finalize your headcount.

Pro tip: Once again, consider going digital to save time and money

Finalize the Plan for Ceremony

• Work with Officiant: Finalize the ceremony structure, including order of events and readings.

Schedule Pre-Wedding Events

• Bridal Showers and Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties: Enjoy these celebrations with your closest friends and family.

Do Hair and Makeup Trials

• Test Your Look: Schedule hair and makeup trials to ensure everything is perfect on the wedding day. Bring inspiration photos and any accessories you’ll wear, like a veil or hairpiece.

Buy Thank-You Gifts

• Thoughtful Gestures: Select meaningful gifts for your wedding party and parents to show your appreciation.

Pro tip: With most of the major decisions made, this month is all about the details. Take the time to enjoy tastings, trials, and celebrations…they’re some of the most fun parts of wedding planning!

2 Months Before the Wedding: Prepare for the Big Day

With two months to go, it’s all about confirming details and locking everything into place. Staying organized now will help your big day run smoothly. Take it step by step, and you’ll be ready in no time!

Confirm Details with Vendors

• Double-Check Bookings: Contact all vendors to ensure they have the correct dates, times, and locations.
• Finalize Logistics: Review arrival times, setup details, and specific services.

Plan Floor Plan and Seating Chart

• Use RSVPs: Begin creating your seating chart based on confirmed guest responses.
• Consider Comfort: Arrange tables to encourage mingling and accommodate any special needs.

Finalize Wedding Party Attire

• Check Outfits: Ensure all wedding party members have their attire and accessories ready.
• Last Fittings: Schedule any remaining alterations if needed.

Schedule Final Dress Fittings

• Perfect the Fit: Complete your final alterations and make sure your dress fits like a dream.

Order Favors and Welcome Bags

• Personalized Touches: Include small, thoughtful items like snacks, local goodies, or personalized gifts for your guests.
• Keep It Simple: Stick to easy-to-assemble options to save time.

Write Your Vows

• Start Early: Begin drafting your vows now, giving yourself plenty of time to practice and refine them.

Obtain Your Marriage License

• Research Requirements: Check your state or county’s rules for marriage licenses, including waiting periods.
• Allow Time: Don’t wait until the last minute…give yourself time for processing and any necessary corrections.

Confirm Rentals and Decor

• Finalize Orders: Double-check all rental items, such as chairs, tables, linens, and decor.
• Align Delivery Dates: Ensure rental delivery and setup times work with your wedding day schedule.

Pro tip: This is a great time to lean on your support system. Delegate small tasks to family and friends to ease your load and stay focused on what’s most important. Two months will fly by—stay excited!

1 Month Before the Wedding: Final Touches

The final month is here! This is the time to put everything in place and make sure no detail is overlooked. With some careful planning and preparation, you’ll feel confident and ready for your big day.

Finalize Guest Count

• Confirm Numbers: Use RSVPs to finalize your headcount and share it with the caterer, venue, and rental companies.
• Double-Check Dietary Needs: Make sure your caterer is aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Create a Wedding Day Timeline

• Plan Every Detail: Map out the day from start to finish, including setup, getting ready schedule, ceremony, photos, and reception events.
• Share the Schedule: Distribute the timeline to vendors, the bridal party, and key family members.

Finalize the Seating Chart

• Organize Seating: Use your confirmed guest list to complete your seating chart.
• Print Escort Cards: Have escort cards or seating signage created to guide guests.

Prepare Bridal Accessories

• Gather Essentials: Collect all wedding accessories, including shoes, jewelry, veil, and anything else you’ll need.
• Pack an Emergency Kit: Include items like safety pins, fashion tape, and a sewing kit for quick fixes.

Plan for the Day-Of

• Delegate Tasks: Assign setup, transportation, and emergency responsibilities to trusted friends or family members.
• Prepare a Contact List: Share key contacts for vendors and helpers with your wedding coordinator or point person.

Pack for Your Honeymoon

• Get Organized: Start packing early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Include Essentials: Don’t forget important documents like passports, tickets, and travel itineraries.

Pro tip: The last month can feel hectic, but stay focused on what matters. Delegate where you can, keep communication clear, and take moments to celebrate…you’re almost there!

2–3 Weeks Before the Wedding: Final Preparations

The last few weeks are all about making sure every detail is in place. By this point, most of the planning is done, so focus on confirming arrangements and preparing for the big day. Take time to relax and enjoy the process…you’ve earned it!

Confirm Vendor Arrangements

• Reconfirm Details: Touch base with all vendors to ensure they have the correct timeline, arrival times, and setup details.
• Share Your Timeline: Send the final wedding day schedule to all vendors for reference.

Provide a Photo Shot List

• Share Key Moments: Give your photographer a list of must-have photos, such as family portraits or special details.

Discuss Final Music Requests

• Confirm Key Songs: Double-check with your DJ or band about music for important moments, like your first dance or ceremony entrance.

Organize Tips and Gratuities

• Prepare Envelopes: Arrange tips for vendors and put them in labeled envelopes.
• Assign a Helper: Designate someone to distribute the tips on the wedding day.

Prepare Emergency Kits (If Not Already Done)

• Pack Essentials: Include items like stain remover, a sewing kit, snacks, pain relievers, and water for any last-minute needs.

Relax and Enjoy

• Plan a Self-Care Day: Take a break with a spa day, a relaxing date night, or some quiet time to recharge.
• Stay Calm: Remember to breathe and focus on the excitement of what’s to come.

Pro tip: Use these last few weeks to double-check everything but avoid overloading yourself. By keeping a clear schedule and leaning on your support system, you can step into your wedding day feeling confident and relaxed!

1–7 Days Before the Wedding: Final Countdown

The week before your wedding is here! These final days are all about rehearsing, triple-checking, and preparing for the big day. Stay focused, lean on your support system, and don’t forget to take moments to soak it all in.

1–7 Days Before the Wedding

• Confirm with Vendors:
  Reconfirm arrival times, final payments, and services with all vendors. Share emergency contact numbers in case of last-minute changes.
• Pack for the Big Day:
  Organize all wedding day essentials, including your dress, accessories, marriage license, and any décor or signage you’re bringing.
• Delegate Tasks:
  Assign setup, tear-down, or day-of responsibilities to your trusted helpers or coordinator.
• Write Thank-You Notes:
  Prepare notes for your wedding party, family, or anyone who played a big role in helping you.

The Day Before

• Rehearse the Ceremony:
  Walk through the ceremony with your wedding party, officiant, and any involved vendors. Make sure everyone knows their roles and timing.
• Pack for Your Honeymoon:
  Finalize your luggage with travel essentials, including passports, tickets, and itinerary.
• Enjoy the Rehearsal Dinner:
  Relax and celebrate with family and close friends. Use this time to thank everyone who supported you during the planning process.
• Get a Good Night’s Sleep:
  Prioritize rest to feel refreshed and ready for your big day.

Pro tip: Keep a checklist handy to triple-check everything. If you’ve planned well, all that’s left is to enjoy the experience and look forward to the start of your next chapter!

Wedding Day: Your Moment Has Arrived

Your wedding day is finally here! All the planning is done, and now it’s time to relax, celebrate, and enjoy every moment. Trust your preparation, let go of the small stuff, and focus on the joy of the day.

Stay Calm and Celebrate

• Trust Your Planning: Everything is in place…rely on your hard work and your team to handle the details.
• Be Present: Focus on the love and happiness surrounding you.

Delegate Tasks

• Let Others Help: Your coordinator or trusted friends are there to take care of any last-minute details.
• Avoid Stress: Don’t feel the need to solve every issue…your team has it covered.

Celebrate Fully

• Soak It All In: Take mental snapshots throughout the day to remember these special moments.
• Enjoy Every Second: This is the start of a beautiful new chapter. Dance, laugh, and celebrate with your loved ones.

Pro tip: Take a quiet moment with your partner during the day to pause, reflect, and enjoy the significance of the moment together. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—cherish it!

More Wedding Planning Tips and Ideas

• Tips and advice for planning a wedding in 6 months (this blog post is a great companion to the one you just read)
• Over 250 blog posts filled with money saving ideas and time saving tips for your wedding day