2026 Wedding Planning Checklist
💍 12+ Months Out
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☐ Celebrate your engagement 🎉
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☐ Set a realistic budget (and prioritize what matters most)
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☐ Draft a guest list estimate
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☐ Choose a wedding style & vibe (romantic, modern, boho, bold, minimalist, etc.)
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☐ Select a season and tentative date(s)
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☐ Tour and book your venue(s)
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☐ Hire a wedding planner or coordinator (full or partial)
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☐ Begin inspiration boards (colors, florals, attire, décor)
📸 10–11 Months Out
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☐ Book photographer & videographer
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☐ Book caterer (if not included with venue)
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☐ Research and book entertainment (DJ or live music)
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☐ Secure officiant
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☐ Book rental company (tables, chairs, linens, specialty pieces)
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☐ Start wedding website & email address
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☐ Plan engagement photos
✉️ 8–9 Months Out
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☐ Choose wedding party
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☐ Shop for wedding attire
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☐ Schedule dress fittings or tailoring timeline
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☐ Send Save the Dates
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☐ Book florist
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☐ Book hair & makeup artists
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☐ Research accommodations / hotel blocks
🌸 6–7 Months Out
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☐ Finalize menu concepts
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☐ Book cake or dessert vendor
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☐ Choose ceremony details (vows, readings, traditions)
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☐ Plan décor details & signage
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☐ Order invitations
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☐ Arrange transportation (if needed)
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☐ Begin honeymoon planning
🕯️ 4–5 Months Out
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☐ Send formal invitations
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☐ Schedule tastings (food & cake)
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☐ Choose wedding favors (or donation alternative)
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☐ Plan welcome bags or guest experiences
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☐ Finalize attire for wedding party
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☐ Book rehearsal dinner location
📋 2–3 Months Out
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☐ Track RSVPs and follow up
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☐ Create ceremony & reception timeline
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☐ Finalize song lists & special moments
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☐ Order signage, programs, and seating chart materials
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☐ Apply for marriage license (check state timing)
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☐ Confirm décor delivery and setup plans
💌 1 Month Out
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☐ Final venue walkthrough
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☐ Confirm final guest count
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☐ Finalize vendor payments & tips
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☐ Create detailed day-of schedule for vendors
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☐ Assign a point person for the wedding day
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☐ Pack emergency kit (fashion tape, snacks, lipstick, pain reliever)
🕊️ Week Of
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☐ Pick up attire & accessories
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☐ Final dress fitting
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☐ Confirm transportation times
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☐ Prepare vows & rings
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☐ Relax, hydrate, and get sleep
✨ Wedding Day
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☐ Eat breakfast
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☐ Breathe
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☐ Be present
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☐ Celebrate your love
💕 After the Wedding
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☐ Send thank-you notes
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☐ Preserve attire
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☐ Share photos
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☐ Update name/documents (if applicable)
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☐ Reflect & enjoy married life