Determine your budget and the type of wedding (formal,informal)
Choose a location for the wedding (banquet hall, church, etc)
Visit your officiant (church) with your fiancee. Select date
Plan and attend several bridal shows for ideas
Choose your attendants (wedding party)
Write up a tentative invitation list, for number of guests
Select your entertainment: Band or Disc-Jockey. NOTE:Since bands and
mobile DJ's do private events you may not be able to view one of their receptions
live. Ask to see a video, and check references. Ask the band how long they
have been in business and what is their long term projection for being together
for your wedding date. Ask the band what style of music they play and
do they take requests. Ask the DJ service about Back-up equipment and what
they use for their music source to stay current. Look for a DJ who is a wedding
specialist. Ask how long they have been in business. Some DJ's may help you
with photographer and videographer (Since larger DJ's work with
most of these professionals in your area regularly.) Ask about discounts
and specials if you utilize multiple services. The Band/DJ will actually be your
wedding/time coordinator and make or break your reception. If you plan on
a memorable event, hire a "professional wedding specialist" and not a friend
of a friend or uncle Joe and his CD player! As far as what you pay, look
at what you just paid for your cake and even your veggie trays. Is the person
who will actually run your special day worth more than these items? Most services like the reception hall, Band, DJ and
photographer will require a deposit. Either
way, make sure you have a signed contract. Also check their refund policy on your deposit. It is not uncommon for many wedding professionals to have a "no refund" policy as they have reserved your date expressly for you.
Choose your location for the reception. Call around to several locations(just
in case) and compare prices and services.
Pick your date, determine day or evening, color schemes
etc.
Enroll with a bridal registry at your local department store
Select your dress, veil, accessories. Select your bridesmaid's dresses.
The Groom should also consult a formal wear specialist.
Select photographer and/or Videographer
Select a florist or floral supplier, determine fresh or artificial
flowers
(NOTE: If traveling out of the USA, have appropriate proof of citizenship and other travel documentation (Passport). Check with your travel planner or travel agent.)
Plan accommodations for out-of-town guests. Adding a "Welcome" packet to each room is a professional touch. Welcome Packs can include extra toiletries, map, water bottles, snacks, coupons for area stores and restaurants along with a note from the bride and groom.
Arrange for your rehearsal dinner. Rehearsal Dinner Invitations add a nice touch especially if you're including more than the wedding party such as out of town guests.
Select a baker for your wedding cake. (This is the best part! Go out
and try samples of different bakeries and choose your baker. Then decide
the configuration of the cake(s).)
2 to 4 months
ahead
Address wedding invitations - Ask your wedding consultant for correct protocol for addressing, stuffing, and sealing
envelopes.
Don't forget you'll need a cake knife and server, along with your cake topper. Cake Boxes or Bags may also be needed. We always suggest using Cake Boxes. Boxes are the same price as bags but make for a better take home presentation.
Select music for your church service (if any)
Choose and purchase gifts for your attendants (bridal party). Don't forget the parents gift.
Buy Wedding Rings
Make a date to get your marriage license
Make a map to the church and reception hall, for local and out-of-town
guests
Make appointment with hairstylist, manicurist, etc
Have final dress fitting, bride and bridesmaids
Groom verify all groomsmen have been fitted for their outfits
Mail invitations - before stamping bring one "finished" invitation to
your local postoffice and verify the cost. Then purchase additional outer
and inner stamps. (TIP: The post office makes self-adhesive stamps for most
wedding envelope costs, much better than licking them if you have a lot to
do.)
Confirm with all hired professionals (DJ, Photo,Video, Reception) Correct
dates and times
1 month
ahead
Send your wedding announcement and photo to local newspaper.
Review seating plan for reception
Meet with DJ to select music and special events during the reception.
Remember the DJ will be the coordinator for events at your reception, as
well as master of ceremonies and playing music. You should be able to see
a breakdown of time frames for the entire reception as far as what is being
done (cocktail hour, dinner, traditional wedding events) Most DJ's have a
wide selection of music and will play for your crowd appropriately. Don't
be misled and think you need to choose every song, that is the job of a
professional entertainer. If you would like special songs for your wedding
dances , choose them at this time.
Confirm your honeymoon arrangements.
2 weeks
ahead
Have final consultation with caterer and florist
Write out checks(or withdraw cash) for hired professionals to give to
Best-man for distribution.
Verify tickets and seating (if flying), obtain all travel documents.
(NOTE: If traveling out of the USA, have appropriate proof of citizenship
and other travel documentation. Check with your travel planner or travel
agent.)
12 to 18 months
ahead
