Planning a Wedding in 8 Months (Timeline and Checklist)
Planning a wedding in 8 months can feel like a big task, but with the right timeline, it’s absolutely manageable!
This post will walk you through a step-by-step guide to keep you organized, from booking your venue to finalizing all the important details.
Remember…this timeline is a guide…not a rulebook. Feel free to adjust it to suit your priorities and what matters most to you. If something is really important…like hiring a specific vendor…move it up in the timeline and get it done early.
Happy planning!
***Related post: The post you are reading is a timeline and checklist for what to do and when to do it. I also wrote a post giving tips and advice on planning your wedding in a short amount of time (like 8 months). You can read that here: How To Plan a Wedding In 8 Months
8 Months Before the Wedding: Lay the Groundwork
The eight-month mark is all about setting a strong foundation for your wedding plans. Here’s what to focus on:
Get a Wedding Planner Book or Binder
- Choose a printable planner or go digital to keep all your details organized.
- Use it to track your budget, guest list, vendors, and more
Figure Out Your Priorities
- Sit down with your fiancé to discuss what matters most for your wedding day.
- Decide on key elements like the venue, photographer, or catering.
Set a Realistic Budget
- Determine your total wedding budget and who is contributing.
- Use a printable planner, spreadsheet or budgeting app to monitor expenses.
***Related blog post: How to put together a wedding budget for beginners
Start Your Guest List
- Create a draft guest list to estimate your headcount.
- Remember, the number of guests will directly impact your budget.
Book the Venue
- Secure your venue early to lock in your date.
- Explore non-traditional spaces like backyards, restaurants, or galleries to save money.
***Related blog post: 25 non-traditional wedding venues to consider
Hire Your Key Vendors
- Focus on high-priority vendors, such as your photographer, DJ, and caterer (whatever is most important to you).
- Book early to secure availability.
Start Planning Your Honeymoon
- Choose a destination and set a budget.
- Begin researching options for flights, accommodations, and activities.
Shop for Your Wedding Dress
- Start shopping early to ensure plenty of time for fittings.
- Look for off-the-rack dresses or sample sales for quicker options.
7 Months Before the Wedding: Build the Vision
With the big decisions made, it’s time to focus on the details that will bring your wedding vision to life.
Take Engagement Photos
- Use the photos for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or social media.
- Consider a DIY photo session with a tripod or ask a friend for help.
***Related blog post: 11 best engagement session tips for amazing photos
Book Hotel Room Blocks
- Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests.
- Negotiate group discounts to make booking easier and more affordable.
Complete Your Wedding Website and Registry
- Add all the important information to your wedding website.
- Finish setting up your gift registry so guests can shop with ease.
Send Save-the-Dates
- Use digital save-the-dates for a quick and budget-friendly option.
- Include your wedding website link for guests to find more details.
Assemble the Wedding Party
- Choose your bridesmaids and/or groomsmen and let them know early.
- Give them plenty of time to prepare for their roles.
Book Transportation
- Reserve transportation for your wedding day to ensure everyone gets where they need to be on time.
Hire Additional Vendors
- Finalize bookings for hair and makeup, a videographer, florist, and any other vendors you need.
Shop for Wedding Rings
- Start looking for wedding bands now to allow time for adjustments or customizations.
Plan the Reception Menu
- Meet with your caterer to decide on food and beverage options.
- Take guest preferences and dietary restrictions into account.
Plan Decor and Rentals
- Make a list of decor and rental items, like tables, chairs, and linens.
- Start reserving items to ensure availability for your wedding day.
6 Months Before the Wedding: Finalize the Essentials
With six months to go, your wedding plans should be coming together. This is the time to solidify the key details and keep everything on track.
Order Invitations
- Choose a design that fits your theme and place your order.
- Consider digital invitations for a budget-friendly option.
Book Your Rehearsal Dinner Venue
- Reserve a venue for your rehearsal dinner or plan a casual alternative like a backyard gathering.
Finalize Wedding Attire
- Confirm orders for your wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, and groomsmen’s suits.
- Schedule fittings to ensure everything fits perfectly.
Plan Ceremony Details
- Work with your officiant to finalize the ceremony structure.
- Decide whether to write personal vows or use traditional ones.
Start DIY Projects
- Begin creating decor, signage, or favors that require more time to complete.
- Focus on manageable projects to avoid added stress.
Finalize Honeymoon Plans
- Book flights, accommodations, and activities for your honeymoon.
- Double-check that all travel arrangements align with your budget and schedule.
5 Months Before the Wedding: Focus on Details
With five months to go, it’s time to tackle the smaller but important details to ensure everything comes together smoothly.
Work on DIY Projects
- Continue crafting any personal touches or decor items for your wedding.
Order Signage
- Place orders for ceremony programs, signage, and other printed materials.
- Check out Etsy or local print shops for unique and personalized options.
4 Months Before the Wedding: Bring It All Together
With just a few months to go, now’s the time to wrap up your DIY projects and finalize the look and feel of your wedding day.
Create Music Playlists
- Select songs for key moments, like the processional, first dance, and reception entrance.
- Share your playlist with your DJ or band to ensure everything is ready.
***Related blog post: The ultimate resource for the best wedding songs for every part of your day
Purchase Wedding Accessories
- Buy your veil, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories to complete your wedding attire.
- Double-check that all items fit well with your overall look.
Confirm Guest Count
- Start following up with guests who haven’t RSVP’d yet.
- Use the updated count to finalize numbers with your caterer and venue.
Organize Wedding Day Details
- Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day, including setup, ceremony, and reception schedules.
- Share the timeline with your vendors and bridal party to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Pro Tip: This timeline is here to guide you, but feel free to adjust it to your specific needs. Focus on completing one or two tasks at a time to stay on track and stress-free.
Don’t forget to grab your free wedding planning checklist at the end of this post to keep everything organized!
3 Months Before the Wedding: Focus on the Details
With three months to go, it’s time to finalize your plans and wrap up any loose ends. Now’s the time for some of the most enjoyable parts of planning…cake tastings, invitations, and trying out your wedding-day look. Take it one step at a time, and savor the moment!
Finalize Menu and Cake
- Menu Tastings: Confirm all catering details and taste the options to make your final decisions.
- Choose Your Cake: Attend a cake tasting and pick the flavors and design that suit your style.
Send Invitations
- Mail Invitations: Send your wedding invitations out 8-12 weeks before the wedding.
- Include RSVP Cards: Set an RSVP deadline about 6-8 weeks before the big day to finalize your guest count.
Pro tip: Digital invitations are a great option to save money and time while still looking beautiful.
Finalize the Ceremony Plan
- Collaborate with Your Officiant: Go over the ceremony structure, including any readings or traditions you’d like to include.
Schedule Pre-Wedding Events
- Celebrate with Friends and Family: Enjoy your bridal shower and bachelor/bachelorette parties, and let yourself relax and have fun!
Do Hair and Makeup Trials
- Perfect Your Look: Test out your wedding-day hair and makeup. Bring along any accessories like a veil or hairpiece to complete the look.
Buy Thank-You Gifts
- Show Gratitude: Choose thoughtful gifts for your wedding party and parents to thank them for their support.
Pro tip: At this stage, the big decisions are behind you, so take the time to enjoy these personal and creative touches—they’re some of the most fun parts of wedding planning!
2 Months Before the Wedding: Tie Up Loose Ends
Two months out, it’s time to confirm all the details and ensure everything is set for the big day. Staying organized now will help things go smoothly when the time comes.
Confirm Details with Vendors
- Verify Bookings: Contact all vendors to confirm dates, times, and locations.
- Review Logistics: Double-check arrival times, setup instructions, and specific details for each vendor.
Plan Your Floor Plan and Seating Chart
- Use RSVPs: Start arranging your seating chart based on guest responses.
- Prioritize Comfort: Arrange tables to encourage socializing and consider any special accommodations your guests may need.
Finalize Wedding Party Attire
- Check Outfits: Ensure all wedding party members have their attire and accessories ready.
- Schedule Last Fittings: Complete any final alterations to make sure everything fits perfectly.
Schedule Final Dress Fittings
- Perfect the Fit: Finish your last alterations so your dress is wedding-day ready.
Order Favors and Welcome Bags
- Add a Personal Touch: Choose simple but meaningful items for favors or welcome bags, like snacks, small gifts, or local treats.
- Keep It Manageable: Opt for easy-to-assemble options to save time.
Write Your Vows
- Take Your Time: Start writing your vows now to give yourself plenty of time to perfect them.
Obtain Your Marriage License
- Check Requirements: Research your state or county’s marriage license process and requirements.
- Don’t Wait: Get this done early to account for any waiting periods or errors.
Confirm Rentals and Decor
- Finalize Orders: Double-check that all rental items, like tables, chairs, linens, and decor, are secured.
- Coordinate Delivery: Make sure delivery and setup times align with your wedding schedule.
Pro tip: Use your support system during this time. Delegate tasks to family and friends to ease your workload, and keep your focus on the bigger picture. These next two months will go by fast, so stay excited—you’re almost there!
1 Month Before the Wedding: Final Touches
The countdown is on! With one month to go, it’s time to put all the pieces together and ensure every detail is accounted for. With careful planning, you’ll feel calm and prepared when your big day arrives.
Finalize Guest Count
- Confirm Numbers: Use your RSVPs to finalize your guest list and share it with the caterer, venue, and rental companies.
- Check Dietary Needs: Make sure your caterer is aware of any allergies or special dietary requests.
Create a Wedding Day Timeline
- Plan Every Detail: Write out the schedule for your wedding day, including setup times, getting ready, the ceremony, photos, and the reception.
- Share It: Distribute your timeline to vendors, bridal party members, and key family or friends who are helping.
Finalize the Seating Chart
- Organize Your Guests: Use your final headcount to arrange your seating chart.
- Order Escort Cards: Have escort cards or seating signage printed or created to guide guests to their seats.
Prepare Bridal Accessories
- Gather Essentials: Collect your wedding shoes, jewelry, veil, and any other accessories you’ll need.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Include items like safety pins, sewing supplies, pain relievers, and other quick-fix essentials.
Plan for the Day-Of
- Delegate Responsibilities: Assign tasks like setup, transportation, and vendor coordination to trusted friends or family.
- Create a Contact List: Provide a list of vendor contacts and helpers to your wedding coordinator or designated point person.
Pack for Your Honeymoon
- Start Early: Begin packing for your honeymoon to avoid rushing.
- Don’t Forget the Essentials: Ensure you have important documents like passports, tickets, and travel itineraries.
Pro tip: The last month can be busy, but focus on what truly matters. Delegating tasks, staying organized, and taking moments to enjoy the process will keep stress at bay as your wedding day approaches.
2–3 Weeks Before the Wedding: Final Preparations
With just a few weeks left, it’s time to confirm all the details and make sure you’re ready for the big day. Most of the hard work is behind you, so use this time to double-check everything and take moments to relax—you’ve got this!
Confirm Vendor Arrangements
- Reconfirm Details: Reach out to all vendors to verify they have the correct timeline, arrival times, and setup instructions.
- Share the Timeline: Provide vendors with the final wedding day schedule to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Provide a Photo Shot List
- List Your Must-Haves: Give your photographer a list of key photos, such as family groupings or important moments.
***Related blog post: Must-have photos on your wedding day
Discuss Final Music Requests
- Confirm Songs: Double-check with your DJ or music vendor about songs for special moments like your first dance or ceremony processional.
Organize Tips and Gratuities
- Prepare Envelopes: Arrange tips for vendors and place them in clearly labeled envelopes.
- Assign a Helper: Designate someone to distribute the tips on your behalf during the wedding.
Prepare Emergency Kits (If Not Already Done)
- Pack Must-Haves: Include items like a stain remover pen, snacks, water, sewing supplies, and other quick-fix essentials.
***Related blog post: Must-have items in your wedding day emergency kit
Relax and Recharge
- Take a Break: Schedule a self-care day, whether that’s a spa visit, a quiet evening at home, or a fun outing with your partner.
- Stay Calm: Keep your focus on the excitement of the day ahead.
Pro tip: These last weeks are about fine-tuning and preparing, but don’t overdo it. Stick to a manageable schedule, lean on your support system, and take time to enjoy the anticipation of your special day!
1–7 Days Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown
The last week is here! These days are about confirming, preparing, and rehearsing so you can step into your wedding day stress-free. Take it one task at a time, lean on your support system, and make sure to soak in every moment.
1–7 Days Before the Wedding
- Confirm with Vendors:
Double-check arrival times, final payments, and service details with all vendors. Share a list of emergency contact numbers for any last-minute changes. - Pack for the Big Day:
Organize your wedding dress, accessories, marriage license, and any décor or signage you’ll need. - Delegate Tasks:
Assign specific day-of responsibilities like setup, tear-down, or coordinating with vendors to trusted helpers or your wedding coordinator. - Write Thank-You Notes:
Prepare heartfelt notes for your wedding party, family, or anyone who’s played a significant role in your wedding planning.
The Day Before
- Rehearse the Ceremony:
Walk through the ceremony with your wedding party, officiant, and any key vendors. Ensure everyone knows their roles and timing. - Pack for Your Honeymoon:
Finish packing your luggage, including important documents like passports, tickets, and your itinerary. - Enjoy the Rehearsal Dinner:
Celebrate with family and close friends. Take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported you along the way. - Get a Good Night’s Sleep:
Prioritize rest so you feel refreshed and ready to embrace your big day.
Pro tip: Use a checklist to stay on top of everything. Once you’ve confirmed the details, the rest is about enjoying the experience and looking forward to the beginning of your married life.
Wedding Day: Your Moment Has Arrived
It’s here—the day you’ve been planning for! All your hard work has paid off, and now it’s time to relax, enjoy, and celebrate. Trust in your preparation, let go of the small stuff, and focus on the joy and love surrounding you.
Stay Calm and Celebrate
- Trust Your Planning:
Everything is ready—lean on your preparation and the people you’ve entrusted to handle the details. - Be Present:
Focus on the happiness and love filling your day.
Delegate Tasks
- Let Others Take Charge:
Rely on your coordinator or trusted friends to handle any last-minute hiccups. - Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff:
If minor issues arise, let your team take care of them.
Celebrate Fully
- Soak It All In:
Take mental snapshots throughout the day to hold onto these once-in-a-lifetime moments. - Enjoy Every Second:
Dance, laugh, and celebrate with your loved ones—this is your day!
Pro tip: Take a quiet moment with your partner to pause and reflect. Sneak away during the day to share a private moment together, soaking in the significance of what you’ve just celebrated. It’s a memory you’ll treasure forever!
More Wedding Planning Tips and Ideas
Here are a few more posts that you might find helpful when planning your wedding:
