Your Wedding Planning Checklist: From Start to Finish

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming without a clear roadmap. From the moment you say "yes" to the big day itself, there are countless details to organize and decisions to make. This step-by-step checklist will guide you through the entire process, ensuring nothing is overlooked as you create the wedding of your dreams.

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

1. Set Your Budget

Establish a realistic budget to guide all your planning decisions. Discuss contributions from family members and prioritize expenses.

2. Create a Guest List

Draft an initial guest list to get an idea of the event’s size. This will help you choose a venue that can accommodate everyone.

3. Choose Your Wedding Date

Select a date that works for you, your families, and any key guests. Consider the season, weather, and venue availability.

4. Hire a Wedding Planner

If your budget allows, hire a wedding planner to help organize and execute your vision.

5. Book the Venue

Secure your ceremony and reception venues early, as popular locations can book up quickly.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

6. Choose Your Wedding Party

Ask your closest friends and family to stand by your side on your special day.

7. Find Your Vendors

Start researching and booking key vendors, including:

• Caterer

• Photographer/videographer

• Band or DJ

• Florist

8. Shop for Attire

Begin shopping for your wedding dress or suit. Don’t forget to account for tailoring and fittings.

9. Decide on a Theme

Choose a wedding theme or color scheme to guide your décor and design decisions.

10. Send Save-the-Dates

Once your venue and date are confirmed, send save-the-date cards to your guests.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

11. Plan Your Ceremony

Meet with your officiant to discuss the ceremony structure and any special traditions or rituals you’d like to include.

12. Book Accommodations

Reserve hotel blocks for out-of-town guests and make arrangements for your honeymoon.

13. Finalize the Guest List

Refine your guest list and ensure you have accurate contact information for everyone.

14. Design Invitations

Work with a stationer to design your wedding invitations. Include all necessary details like time, location, dress code, and RSVP instructions.

15. Arrange Transportation

Book transportation for the wedding day, such as limousines, shuttles, or vintage cars.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding

16. Select Décor

Work with your florist and decorator to finalize the design for your ceremony and reception.

17. Plan the Menu

Schedule a tasting with your caterer and finalize the food and beverage menu.

18. Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials

Book a session with your stylist and makeup artist to decide on your wedding day look.

19. Order Wedding Favors

Choose personalized wedding favors for your guests as a token of appreciation.

20. Write Your Vows

If you’re writing personal vows, start drafting them early to ensure they reflect your feelings.

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

21. Mail Invitations

Send your wedding invitations and include RSVP deadlines.

22. Confirm Vendor Details

Touch base with all vendors to confirm schedules, details, and any outstanding requirements.

23. Plan the Timeline

Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day, including when vendors arrive, the ceremony start time, and reception activities.

24. Purchase Wedding Rings

Shop for and order wedding rings, leaving enough time for engraving if desired.

25. Arrange Rehearsal Dinner

Book the venue and plan the menu for your rehearsal dinner.

1 Month Before the Wedding

26. Obtain a Marriage License

Check your state or country’s requirements and obtain your marriage license.

27. Final Dress Fitting

Attend your final dress or suit fitting and ensure everything fits perfectly.

28. Assign Tasks

Delegate responsibilities to your wedding party or trusted friends, such as managing the guestbook or coordinating with vendors.

29. Confirm Guest Count

Provide a final headcount to your caterer and other vendors.

30. Pack for Your Honeymoon

Start packing for your honeymoon and ensure all travel documents are in order.

1 Week Before the Wedding

31. Confirm Details

Double-check all arrangements with vendors, including arrival times and payment balances.

32. Practice the Ceremony

Hold a rehearsal at the venue with your wedding party and officiant.

33. Pack an Emergency Kit

Prepare a kit with essentials like safety pins, a sewing kit, stain remover, pain relievers, and breath mints.

34. Relax and Pamper Yourself

Schedule a spa day or take time to relax and mentally prepare for your big day.

Wedding Day

35. Start Early

Wake up early to allow plenty of time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed.

36. Eat Breakfast

Have a healthy breakfast to keep your energy up throughout the day.

37. Stick to the Schedule

Follow the timeline to ensure everything runs smoothly.

38. Enjoy the Moment

Take a moment to soak in the day and cherish the celebration with your loved ones.

39. Thank Your Guests

Make time to thank your guests for attending and celebrating with you.

40. Celebrate!

Dance, laugh, and enjoy every moment of your special day. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so savor it!

Planning a wedding takes time, effort, and organization, but with this checklist, you can navigate the process with confidence. Start early, stay organized, and focus on the joy of celebrating your love. By following these steps, you’ll create a wedding day that’s not only beautiful but also unforgettable for you and your guests.

When it comes to checking off items on your wedding planning checklist, The Luxury Lounge in Beverly Hills simplifies the process with its all-in-one offerings. From its stunning 4,000 sq. ft. indoor space and 3,500 sq. ft. outdoor courtyard that fit perfectly into your venue booking to its customizable layouts that align seamlessly with your decor and theme selection, this venue ensures every detail is effortlessly managed. Planning your rehearsal dinner? The Luxury Lounge’s versatile spaces can accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. With its prime location in Beverly Hills, you’re also minutes away from premium accommodations for your out-of-town guests. By choosing The Luxury Lounge, you’re not just booking a venue—you’re securing peace of mind, knowing that every step of your wedding planning journey is supported by a venue that prioritizes your vision and convenience.

Visit or contact us TODAY:

9665 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA  90212

(323) 488-4114