The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

Planning your wedding is exciting—but it’s also a lot to keep track of. From securing vendors to sending invitations, it can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. That’s why we’ve created The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: a step-by-step guide to help you stay organized, stress-free, and on track for your big day.

12 Months Before “I Do”

• Set your budget.

• Hire a wedding planner.

• Choose your date & book your venue.

• Draft a guest list.

• Research key vendors: photographer, videographer, entertainment.

9–11 Months Before

• Book your photographer, videographer, and entertainment.

• Shop for your wedding dress and schedule fittings.

• Choose wedding party and notify them.

• Reserve room blocks for out-of-town guests.

• Plan engagement photos.

6–8 Months Before

• Book caterer and florist.

• Finalize ceremony details (officiant, readings, traditions).

• Send Save-the-Dates.

• Shop for bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire.

• Plan honeymoon.

4–5 Months Before

• Choose cake baker and schedule tastings.

• Order invitations and signage.

• Book hair and makeup artists.

• Finalize décor and rental needs.

• Plan rehearsal dinner.

2–3 Months Before

• Mail invitations.

• Schedule beauty trials (hair & makeup).

• Finalize menu, cake design, and timeline with vendors.

• Secure transportation for guests or bridal party.

• Purchase wedding bands.

1 Month Before

• Apply for marriage license.

• Confirm vendor contracts and delivery times.

• Create a detailed wedding day timeline.

• Break in wedding shoes and finalize attire fittings.

• Plan bachelor/bachelorette parties.

1–2 Weeks Before

• Give final headcount to caterer.

• Pack honeymoon bags.

• Confirm rehearsal details.

• Assign day-of tasks (or let your planner handle everything).

• Enjoy some self-care and relaxation time.

Wedding Day

• Eat breakfast and stay hydrated.

• Trust your planner and vendors.

• Be present in every moment.

• Celebrate your love story—stress-free!

✨ At New Orleans Wedding Planners LLC, we don’t just give you a checklist—we execute it flawlessly. From “yes” to “I do,” we’re here to guide you every step of the way.