From Engagement to Honeymoon Bliss Checklist

Congratulations! You’re engaged, and the exciting journey of wedding planning has begun.

From the initial “yes” to the blissful honeymoon, this comprehensive wedding planning checklist will guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Phase 1: The Engagement Glow (1-3 Months)

• Announce Your Engagement: Share the joyous news with family and friends.
• Set a Budget: Determine how much you can realistically spend.
• Decide on a Wedding Date and Season: Consider availability, weather, and personal preferences.
• Choose a Wedding Style/Theme: Formal, casual, rustic, beach, etc.
• Create a Preliminary Guest List: This will help determine venue size.
• Start Researching Venues: Explore potential ceremony and reception locations. (Related post: Finding A Perfect Wedding Location Has Never Been So Easy)
• Begin Assembling Your Vendor Team: Research photographers, video-graphers, and wedding planners.
• Get Organized: Create a wedding planning binder or digital folder to keep everything in one place.

Phase 2: Laying the Foundation (4-8 Months)

• Book Your Venue(s): Secure your ceremony and reception locations.
• Hire Key Vendors: Photographers, videographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment.
• Choose Your Wedding Party: Ask your closest friends and family to be part of your special day.
• Start Shopping for Wedding Attire: Begin browsing wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and groom’s attire.
• Create a Wedding Website: Share important details with guests. (Related Post: The Best Wedding Websites for Your Big Day)
• Plan Your Ceremony: Decide on readings, music, and vows.
• Book Accommodations for Out-of-Town Guests: Secure hotel blocks.
• Start Planning Your Honeymoon: Research destinations and book flights/accommodations.
• Send Save-the-Date Cards: Give guests ample notice.

Phase 3: The Details Come to Life (6-3 Months)

• Finalize Wedding Attire: Order your wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, and groom’s attire. And don’t forget the mother of the bride and groom dresses, they also deserve better dressed for the big day.
• Choose Wedding Invitations: Select a design that reflects your wedding style. If you’re a modern bride, and have an intimate wedding, you may consider Acrylic Wedding Invitations, the newest wedding trends these days.
• Plan the Reception Menu: Schedule a tasting with your caterer.
• Book Wedding Transportation: Arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests.
• Select Wedding Favors: Choose a thoughtful gift for your guests.
• Purchase Wedding Rings: Find rings that symbolize your love.
• Plan Pre-Wedding Events: Bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette parties.
• Create a Gift Registry: Register for gifts you’ll love.

Phase 4: The Final Countdown (2-1 Months)

• Send Wedding Invitations: Mail invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
• Finalize Guest List: Collect RSVPs and finalize the guest count.
• Create a Seating Chart: Plan the reception seating arrangement.
• Meet with Vendors to Confirm Details: Review timelines and finalize arrangements.
• Get Marriage License: Obtain your marriage license according to local regulations.
• Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials: Ensure you’re happy with your wedding day look.
• Prepare Wedding Day Timeline: Create a detailed schedule for the day.
• Purchase Wedding Party Gifts: Show appreciation to your bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Phase 5: The Big Day and Beyond (1 Week – Honeymoon)

• Pack for the Honeymoon: Ensure you have everything you need for your trip.
• Confirm Vendor Arrival Times: Double-check schedules with all vendors.
• Prepare Payment Envelopes for Vendors: Organize tips and final payments.
• Relax and Enjoy Your Wedding Day: Let go of stress and savor every moment.
• Send Thank You Notes: Express gratitude to guests for their gifts and attendance.
• Enjoy Your Honeymoon: Relax and celebrate your new life together.
• Preserve Your Wedding Memories: Create a wedding album or scrapbook.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful and memorable wedding day. Happy planning!