Your Twelve Month Wedding Planning Guide

You’ve got the sparkly ring on your finger, your friends and family have shared in the celebrations and now is the time to get down to business and plan your wedding day! At first many couples can be more than a little daunted about where to begin, trust us, we know it’s not plain sailing for all of you. To ensure nothing is forgotten and your planning is as easy as possible have a look at our twelve month guide to getting it right. If your wedding is further away, or of course, sooner than twelve months, simply alter the months to suit you.

Twelve months before…

  • Set a date

  • Set your budget – your figure will be a main deciding factor in every other choice you make!

  • Choose your bridal party

  • Decide on number of guests and draw up a first draft guest list

  • Choose your ceremony and reception locations and book

  • Consider hiring a wedding planner and book if your decide to use one

  • Send save the date cards to guests travelling from overseas

  • Choose and book your photographer, videographer and entertainment

Six to nine months before…

  • Shop for and order your wedding dress and accessories

  • Apply for your marriage license

  • Choose your bridal and grooms party attire

  • Book your florist

  • Organise your wedding transport

  • Book guest accommodation at your venue, or nearby

  • Choose and order your wedding cake

  • Order wedding rings and arrange to have your engagement ring cleaned closer to the big day

  • Choose your guest list

  • Choose and order your stationery – remember to include directions, gift list details etc

  • Plan and book any extra music and entertainment including ceremony performers

Four to two months before…

  • Send out invitations

  • Have your final dress fitting

  • Arrange a wedding rehearsal, let everyone know date and time

  • Finalise your honeymoon – don’t forget to arrange any vaccinations you might need before travelling

  • Book your hairdresser and makeup artist

  • Confirm all arrangements with all individual suppliers

One month before

  • Chase any outstanding RSVP’s and compile seating plan – deliver it to reception

  • Collect your wedding dress – remember to bring underwear, shoes and accessories to make sure you are happy with the final look

  • Collect your wedding rings

  • Remind your fiancé to write his speech

  • Have a hair and makeup trial

  • Keep a note of what each guest buys for your gift, this will save you time when writing Thank You cards


  • If you are changing your name, prepare the necessary forms and documents to do so

  • Break in your wedding shoes

  • Pack your wedding night bag and honeymoon suitcase

Week and day before…

  • Enjoy the build up!

  • Finalise all transportation arrangements for the bridal party and your parents


  • Deliver your wedding cake and overnight bag at your venue

  • Prepare any envelopes with payment for suppliers

  • Try to have an early night and don’t stress!