What Am I Forgetting? The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist for Brides Who Feel Behind

It happens all the time: you’ve booked your photographer, secured your venue, maybe picked out a dress and some décor… and then you stop and think: “Wait… what am I missing? Am I forgetting something important?”

If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Nearly every couple hits that “what’s next?” stage of wedding planning. The good news? You’ve already checked off some of the biggest tasks. The better news? Here’s a step-by-step guide with booking timeframes so you’ll know exactly when to lock in vendors and details.

1. Secure Your Core Vendors (12–18 Months Out)

These are the first to book since they get reserved far in advance:

Venue – Choose and secure your date before anything else

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Photographer & Videographer – Book 12–18 months out for the best availability.

DJ or Band – Entertainment pros book quickly, especially for peak weekends.

Planner/Coordinator – Full-service planners often book 12+ months in advance.

Officiant – If you’re using a professional officiant, confirm early.

2. Lock in Beauty & Florals (9–12 Months Out)

These vendors tie directly to your wedding style and look:

Hair & Makeup Artists – Reserve 9–12 months in advance, especially if you want a trial.

Florist – Book 9–12 months out so you have time to design your floral vision.

Caterer – Some venues include catering, but if not, secure this at least 9–12 months out.

3. Guest Experience Essentials (6–9 Months Out)

Keep your guests in mind as you plan:

Save-the-Dates – Send around 8 months before the wedding.

Transportation & Parking – Book shuttles 6–8 months in advance if needed.

Hotels/Room Blocks – Reserve group rates about 9 months out.

Invitations – Order 6–8 months out; send 8–10 weeks before the wedding.

4. Wedding Party & Ceremony Details (6–8 Months Out)

By this stage you’ll want to:

Officially ask your wedding party.

Select and order attire for bridesmaids, groomsmen, or attendants.

Start drafting ceremony details (vows, readings, rituals).

Order wedding bands at least 6 months in advance to allow resizing.

5. Décor, Rentals & Logistics (4–6 Months Out)

Bring your vision together:

Book any rentals (linens, chairs, arches, lounge furniture).

Decide what you’ll DIY vs. outsource.

Confirm signage and décor elements.

Create a rain plan if you have an outdoor ceremony.

6. Timeline & Flow of the Day (3–4 Months Out)

This is when your wedding starts to feel real:

Draft your day-of timeline (ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, dances, send-off).

Confirm portrait times with your photographer.

Give vendors a rough order of events.

Plan the sequence for toasts, cake cutting, and dances.

7. The Fun Extras (3 Months Out or Less)

These aren’t required, but they add personality:

Book a photo booth or specialty entertainment (live painter, caricature artist).

Plan guestbook alternatives (signing board, audio guestbook).

Choose personal touches like signature cocktails or late-night snacks.

8. Final Details (1–2 Months Out)

This is the finishing stage:

Have final dress fittings.

Confirm guest count with caterer.

Write vows and confirm ceremony script.

Provide playlists or must-play/do-not-play songs to your DJ.

Pack your emergency kit.

You’re Doing Better Than You Think

If you’re worried you’re behind, chances are you’re exactly where you should be. The key is to book the vendors that fill up fast first (venue, photographer, entertainment), then fill in the other details as you go. One step at a time—and remember, the most important part is that you’re marrying your best friend.