Plan smart. Stress less. Celebrate more!
Planning a wedding is one of life’s most exciting journeys—but let’s be real, it can also feel like running a full-time event company! From booking the dream venue to choosing outfits and managing vendors, there’s a lot that needs to come together. Whether you’re planning a grand destination shaadi or a cozy ceremony at home, this month-by-month wedding planning checklist is your best friend.
Follow this timeline to stay organized, reduce stress, and make space for joy, laughter, and dancing through it all.
12 Months Before – Let the Planning Begin!
Set the wedding date and confirm it with key family members.
Decide on the wedding budget—get everyone on board.
Create a rough guest list to estimate headcount.
Begin researching venues for all wedding events (engagement, mehendi, sangeet, reception).
Discuss and decide whether you’re hiring a wedding planner.
11 Months Before – Secure the Foundation
Finalize and book your wedding venue(s)—early bird gets the best locations!
Lock in top-tier vendors: photographer, videographer, décor team, event planner.
Research themes, colors, or cultural inspirations for your wedding aesthetic.
Start creating your personal wedding website or planning app.
10 Months Before – Let the Styling Begin
Begin bridal and groom outfit shopping (lehenga, sherwani, reception outfits, etc.).
Discuss your wedding theme with your décor team.
Shortlist mehendi artists, makeup artists, and stylists.
Create a mood board with outfit inspiration, hairstyles, and décor elements.
9 Months Before – Final Touches on the Look
Finalize your bridal and groom wear selections.
Book your makeup and hair artists.
Start designing wedding invitations—e-invites, printed cards, or both.
Begin detailed catering discussions and shortlist food vendors.
8 Months Before – Entertainment & Memories
Confirm caterers and food tastings.
Lock in entertainment: DJs, live bands, dancers.
Plan your pre-wedding shoot with your photographer and choose a location.
Finalize your guest list and create a travel/accommodation plan for out-of-town guests.
7 Months Before – Gifting & Staying Guest-Ready
Order and proof wedding invitations.
Book hotel blocks or guest houses for guests.
Plan wedding favors and return gifts.
Start collecting guest RSVPs via your website or planner.
6 Months Before – Legal & Logistical
Begin marriage registration paperwork—especially for interfaith or destination weddings.
Finalize all vendor contracts and payment schedules.
Book pre-wedding wellness sessions (spa, facials, fitness).
Begin prepping for pre-wedding functions (haldi, mehendi, engagement).
5 Months Before – Dress Rehearsal Time
Go for outfit trials and initiate alterations.
Finalize wedding accessories: jewelry, footwear, clutches, turbans, etc.
Confirm wedding day rituals and timings with priest/pandit or officiant.
Collaborate with choreographers for sangeet performances.
4 Months Before – Taste, Try, and Plan
Do menu tasting with caterers and finalize dishes.
- Go for bridal hair & makeup trials.
Recheck guest RSVPs and follow up with missing ones.
Choose sangeet or reception music playlists.
Begin assembling your bridal emergency kit (bobby pins, safety pins, lipstick, etc.).
3 Months Before – Time to Get Real
Print and send out wedding invites.
- Coordinate outfits with your partner—especially for themed events.
Apply for a marriage license (if required).
Purchase remaining wedding essentials—bags, bangles, ceremony props, etc.
Finalize transportation and logistics for the couple and VIPs.
2 Months Before – Almost There!
Confirm all bookings—venues, makeup, décor, catering, logistics.
Finish final dress fittings and practice walking in your bridal shoes.
Complete honeymoon bookings and visa paperwork if needed.
Plan your bachelorette and bachelor parties!
1 Month Before – Focus on You
- Confirm your wedding day itinerary with the planner.
Do a final walkthrough of the venue(s).
Pack your wedding trousseau and honeymoon luggage.
Focus on self-care—meditate, sleep well, and eat right.
Enjoy your pre-wedding shoot and soak in the excitement.
Make your wedding stand out from the rest! Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nunc non magna tortor.