How To Plan A Wedding In 8 Months On A Budget (2025)
In this post, I’m going to show you how to plan a wedding in 8 months.
Planning a wedding in eight months might feel like a tight squeeze, but trust me, it’s completely doable. I’ve photographed over 500 weddings and helped many couples plan their big day, so I know what works…and what doesn’t.
Below, you’ll find practical tips and advice from real couples who’ve been there, plus my own tips and suggestions.
Note: This post is all about helpful tips and advice for planning a wedding in 8 months. If you’re looking for a detailed timeline or checklist, I’ve got that covered too.
You can check it out here: How to Plan a Wedding in 8 Months (Timeline and Checklist)
Tip #1: Focus on What Matters Most
When planning a wedding in 8 months, setting clear priorities is one of the most important things you can do.
What to Do:
- Sit Down and Discuss: Talk with your fiancé about your top three must-haves. Maybe it’s a specific venue, an amazing photographer, or making sure your favorite people can attend. Each of you should come up with your own top 3.
- Include Financial Contributors: If parents or others are helping pay for the wedding, involve them early. Their input can prevent surprises down the line.
How to Implement:
- Write It Down: Make a list of your priorities as a couple. Seeing them on paper will help keep things clear and organized.
- Stick to the Plan: Use your priority list to guide decisions about where to spend your time, energy, and money. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, revisit the list to stay on track.
Tip #2: Set a Realistic Budget
Setting a clear budget from the start will help you stay in control and avoid unnecessary stress.
What to Do:
- Look at Your Savings: Start by figuring out how much you already have saved for the wedding. Be realistic about what you can spend.
- Set Saving Goals: With 8 months…you have some time to save…but probably not a lot. Look at your income and expenses to see where you can cut back. Small adjustments…like skipping takeout or canceling unused subscriptions…can add up.
- Talk to Family: If parents or family members are contributing, have this conversation early. Knowing exactly how much they can help will make planning easier.
- Explore Extra Income: Use the extra time to boost your budget with a side hustle, selling unused items, or taking on freelance gigs.
***Related blog post: How to pay for wedding when money is an issue
How to Implement:
- Write It All Down: Create a detailed budget that includes what you already have, what you can save, and any family contributions.
- Check Progress Regularly: Set monthly check-ins to make sure you’re staying on track with saving and spending.
- Stick to Your Plan: Use your budget as a guide for every decision. If something doesn’t fit, it’s easier to say no when you know the bigger picture.
Tip #3: Don’t Skip the Planning Checklist
When planning a wedding in 8 months, a checklist is your best friend. It keeps you organized, helps you pace your tasks, and makes sure nothing important slips through the cracks.
With 8 months, you can spread things out a little to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing.
What to Do:
- Find a Checklist: Look for a wedding planning checklist tailored to an 8-month timeline. These are designed to space out tasks and keep things manageable.
- Adjust for Your Needs: Customize the checklist to match your priorities and schedule. Some tasks might not apply to you, and that’s okay…focus on what matters most to you.
Why It Matters:
A checklist helps you stay on top of everything, from booking vendors to sending invitations.
If you’re looking for a customizable wedding planning checklist and planner, I’ve created one specifically to help couples stay organized. You can check it out here!
Tip #4: Figure Out Your Guest List Early
Before booking a venue or hiring any vendors, you need to figure out your guest list. This one step will shape your entire wedding…it affects your budget, venue options, and overall vibe.
If you’re inviting 150 people, you’ll need a larger venue and a bigger budget. If your guest list is closer to 30 or 40, you’ll have more flexibility and may be able to save a lot of money by choosing smaller, more affordable spaces.
Starting with the guest list helps you make decisions more confidently.
What to Do:
- Physically Write Out Names: Sit down with your fiancé and write down every potential guest. Seeing the names on paper helps you realize how quickly the list can grow.
- Prioritize: Start with immediate family, close friends, and anyone you absolutely want there.
- Stick to Your Budget: Add more guests only if your budget allows. Cross-check your final list with your budget to avoid overspending.
Pro Tip:
If you’re trying to save money, keeping your guest list small is one of the easiest ways to do it. Fewer people mean smaller venues, less food, and fewer rentals…and it doesn’t take away from the experience.
Tip #5: Prioritize Venue and Vendor Bookings
Your venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It sets the tone for your wedding and locks in your date.
With 8 months to plan, you may have more options than on a shorter timeline, but competition for popular venues and vendors can still be fierce.
Booking right away ensures you secure your top choices and keeps the planning process moving forward.
What to Do:
- Find Your Venue First: Your venue sets your wedding date, which is essential for booking other vendors. Prioritize this step before moving on to other details.
- Research Budget-Friendly Options:
- Check platforms like Peerspace for unique and affordable venues.
- Look into city parks or other public spaces for low-cost ceremony and reception options.
- Think Outside the Box: Consider non-traditional venues like restaurants, libraries, or family backyards—they can be charming and budget-friendly.
***Related blog post: 25 non-traditional wedding venues for any budget.
Pro Tip:
Join local wedding planning Facebook groups to post about your guest count, budget, and preferred dates. These groups often lead to great recommendations for hidden gems and affordable options you might not have found otherwise.
Once your venue is booked, everything else…like catering, décor, and the timeline…will start to fall into place.
Tip #6: Use Local Facebook Groups for Wedding Planning
Local wedding Facebook groups are a hidden gem for planning a wedding in 8 months. These groups are filled with helpful advice, vendor recommendations, and great deals on décor and services.
With a bit more time to plan, you can explore suggestions and find unique, budget-friendly options that might not be listed anywhere else.
Why Facebook Groups Are a Lifesaver:
- Find Vendors Quickly: Post your wedding date, location, and budget, and let vendors come to you. This saves hours of research.
- Score Deals on Décor: Recently married couples often sell or give away wedding décor like centerpieces, signage, and candles at a fraction of the original cost.
- Get Honest Advice: These groups are full of couples sharing real experiences, tips, and recommendations for local vendors.
What to Do:
- Join Local Wedding Groups: Search for groups in your area using terms like “[Your City] Wedding Planning” or “[Your State] Brides.”
- Post Your Needs: Be clear about what you’re looking for…e.g., “Looking for a florist for an August wedding in Austin with a budget of $1,000” or “In need of vintage wedding décor for a rustic theme.”
How to Implement:
- Engage with Responders: Reply promptly to vendors or other couples offering advice. Ask questions and request quotes to narrow down your options.
- Check Group Posts Regularly: Many couples post items for sale, like gently used décor or even wedding attire.
Pro Tip:
Be specific in your posts to get the most helpful responses. Mention your guest count, style, and budget…it’ll save you and others time.
Local groups are a fantastic resource for finding affordable vendors, unique décor, and reliable advice, all while keeping your planning stress-free.
Tip #7: Get Support from Your Family & Friends
Planning a wedding in 8 months is a big job, and you don’t have to do it alone. Involving friends and family can save you time, reduce stress, and make the whole experience more enjoyable.
What to Do:
- Involve Others: Delegate tasks to people you trust…your fiancé, close friends, or family members. Extra hands make a big difference, whether it’s addressing invitations, researching vendors, or helping with DIY projects.
- Be Specific: When you ask for help, clearly explain what you need and set deadlines. This avoids confusion and ensures everyone knows their role.
How to Implement:
- Create a Task List: Use a shared spreadsheet, planning app, or even a physical checklist to assign tasks and track progress.
- Use Online Communities: Join wedding forums or local Facebook groups to get advice, tips, and even vendor recommendations from other couples.
- Trust Your Team: Once you delegate a task, trust the person to handle it. Micromanaging adds unnecessary stress.
- Show Gratitude: Remember to thank those who help…whether it’s a handwritten note, a small gift, or a heartfelt “thank you.”
Pro Tip:
People are happy to help…they just need to know what to do. Even small tasks, like making vendor calls or picking up décor, can take a load off your plate.
Plus, having someone to share the planning journey with makes it way more fun.
You’ve got a team behind you…let them help you make your wedding day amazing!
Tip #8: Invitation and Signage Templates: A Stress-Free Solution
Templates are a lifesaver when planning a wedding in 8 months. They save you time, money, and stress while still letting you create beautiful, personalized invitations and décor.
With so many options online, you can find designs that match your style and make your wedding feel unique.
What to Do:
- Save Time: Skip the long back-and-forth with designers and opt for ready-made templates. You can find stunning options for invitations, menus, table numbers, and signage.
- Stick to Your Budget: Templates are affordable, with many available on websites like Etsy. They’re easy to customize and much cheaper than hiring a designer.
How to Implement:
- Choose a Cohesive Design: Pick templates that match your wedding theme or color palette. Coordinated designs will make everything look polished and intentional.
- Edit at Home: Most templates are easy to edit with free or low-cost tools like Canva or Adobe. You can add your details and print them at home or through an online service.
- Print Affordably:
- Online Options: Use sites like Vistaprint, Canva, or Zazzle for professional yet budget-friendly printing.
- Local Print Shops: Check out nearby printers for fast turnaround times and personalized service.
Examples of What You Can Use Templates For:
- Invitations
- Save-the-Dates
- Welcome Signs
- Table Numbers
- Seating Charts
- Menus
- Etc.
Bonus Tip:
I’ve created a collection of customizable templates to make your planning even easier. From invitations to wedding day signage, you’ll find everything you need to keep things simple and stylish. Check them out here!
Templates are the perfect blend of convenience and creativity…giving you a personalized, professional look without breaking the bank.
Tip #9: Less Is More: Keep It Simple
Even with 8 months to plan, keeping things simple can make your wedding less stressful and more enjoyable. Simplicity helps you stay on budget, avoid unnecessary decisions, and focus on what truly matters…celebrating your love with the people who mean the most.
What to Do:
- Embrace Minimalism: A smaller guest list and simple décor mean fewer decisions and less stress.
- Prioritize Essentials: Focus on the things that matter most to you and skip the extras that don’t align with your budget or priorities.
How to Implement:
- Limit Your Guest List: A smaller guest list not only saves money but also makes planning easier…from catering to seating arrangements.
- Choose Versatile Décor: Use items that can serve multiple purposes, like flowers that double as ceremony decorations and table centerpieces.
- Streamline Decisions: Don’t overthink every little detail. Go with your gut and remind yourself that less is often more.
Pro Tip:
Keeping your wedding simple doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or fun. Thoughtful, minimalist weddings are often more intimate and memorable than over-the-top productions. Plus, you’ll save time and energy, allowing you to enjoy the process more.
Simpler choices lead to a smoother planning process…and more time to focus on creating meaningful memories.
Tip #10: Avoid Procrastination with a Schedule
Having 8 months to plan might feel like plenty of time to some couples, but it can create a false sense of security that leads to procrastination.
Staying on schedule is key to avoiding last-minute stress and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
What to Do:
- Avoid Procrastination: Start tasks early, even if they feel small or unimportant. It’s much easier to stay ahead of deadlines than scramble to catch up later.
- Limit DIY Projects: Only take on DIY projects that you know you can finish without adding unnecessary stress. It’s tempting to go overboard, but too many projects can derail your schedule.
How to Implement:
- Use a Calendar: Plan out your tasks with deadlines and reminders using a digital calendar or project management app. Spreading tasks out over 8 months makes everything more manageable.
- Delegate Tasks: Share the workload with friends, family, or your fiancé. Assigning responsibilities helps you stay on track and reduces the risk of last-minute scrambling.
Pro Tip:
Check in with your schedule regularly…at least once a week. Adjust deadlines if needed and tackle tasks early when you have extra time. Staying organized now means you’ll have a more relaxed and enjoyable wedding day later.
Tip #11: A Planner or Coordinator Can Simplify Your Wedding Day
Even with 8 months to plan, hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator can be a smart investment…especially if you’re juggling work, family, or other commitments. Their expertise can simplify the planning process and save you a lot of stress.
What to Do:
- Hire a Planner: If your budget allows, a professional planner can handle vendor communication, timelines, and logistics so you don’t have to.
- Consider a Coordinator: If a full planner isn’t in the cards, look into hiring a day-of coordinator to ensure your big day runs smoothly.
How to Implement:
- Research Planners: Check reviews and ask for recommendations to find experienced planners in your area. Facebook wedding groups can be a great resource for this.
- Schedule a Consultation: Meet with potential planners to discuss your needs, budget, and vision for the wedding.
- Clarify Services: Get a clear breakdown of what the planner or coordinator will handle so you know exactly what to expect.
Pro Tip:
A planner isn’t just for busy couples…they can also help you find creative ways to save money, stick to your budget, and connect with trusted vendors. Whether you choose a full-service planner or just a coordinator for the big day, their guidance can be invaluable.
Tip #12: Keep Your Wedding Party Small
A small wedding party can make planning so much easier and less stressful. When my wife and I got married, we kept it simple with just a best man and a maid of honor, and it was perfect…easy to coordinate and stress-free.
A smaller wedding party means:
- Fewer outfits to match.
- Less time spent coordinating schedules.
- A more intimate and meaningful experience with those closest to you.
If I could do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. Simplifying your wedding party isn’t just practical…it can make the entire day feel more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.
But remember…it’s your day. If celebrating with a big group of friends and having a big wedding party is one of your top priorities…go for it!
These tips are just my advice for what I have seen work. You do not have to follow all of them to plan an amazing wedding in 8 months.
Tip #13: Make Planning Part of the Fun
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming at times, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. With 8 months to plan, you have the time to pause, breathe, and enjoy the journey. The process of planning your wedding is just as special as the big day itself…don’t forget to savor it.
What to Do:
- Take Breaks: Step away from wedding planning whenever you need to recharge. A refreshed mind can make decisions much easier.
- Celebrate Milestones: Every task you complete is progress, so take time to acknowledge it…whether it’s booking a vendor, sending invitations, or picking out your dress.
How to Implement:
- Plan Downtime: Schedule regular date nights, self-care days, or even a fun night with friends. Staying connected to your fiancé and loved ones will keep you grounded and excited.
- Share Your Excitement: Talk about your plans with people you trust…it keeps the process positive. But keep that circle small to avoid getting overwhelmed by too many opinions.
Final Thought:
By staying organized, flexible, and focused on what truly matters, you’ll create a beautiful wedding in just 8 months. It’s absolutely possible to plan a day that reflects your love and feels meaningful to you and your guests.
Remember, the ultimate goal isn’t perfection…it’s celebrating your love and starting your marriage surrounded by the people who matter most. Take it one step at a time, enjoy the process, and trust that everything will come together.
You’ve got this!
More Wedding Planning Tips and Ideas
Here are a few more blog posts that you might find helpful while planning your wedding:
