This checklist is intended as a tool to help you get started with your wedding plans. There are many excellent wedding planner books and etiquette books available in major bookstores which can provide you with even greater detail. We recommend that you start planning your wedding at the soonest possible time. Keep in mind that it is not uncommon for ceremony and receptions locations, as well as vendors, to be booked up to one year or more in advance. Quick action on your part will help ensure you get the date, location, and vendors you desire!
Book wedding officiate (priest, minister, rabbi, notary, etc.)
Usually at the same time the location is being lined up
$______
Determine number of guests
Needed to determine reception location, and food budget and selection for caterer
$______
Establish a budget
This should be done in conjunction with determining the number of guests and before proceeding so that you will be able to determine the facilities and services you can afford. Do you want 200 people, hors d'oeuvres and no honeymoon, or 100 people, a nice buffet, and a weekend trip? You should have a firm idea of what you can spend before talking to the following vendors. Most of them will have different options for different price ranges.
$______
Determine attire for attendants
Formal, semi-formal, informal
$______
Choose attendants
$______
Guest list
Have each set of parents/family make out their guests lists.
$______
Reception location/caterer
Be sure to investigate at least three before booking a date. Depending on your choice and budget, this may end up being two separate entities (e.g., reception at Philippi Mansion being catered by The Waterside Room).
$______
Hair & make-up
Be sure to book a date with your hair and make-up artist for you and your wedding party.
$______
Photographer/videographer
It's usually a good idea to interview three or four to see how they work, what they offer, and what they charge. Depending on your budget, you'll have to decide if you want photography, videography, or both.
$______
Florist
Again, talk to at least three different florists. Reserve your date - coordinate specific bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, etc. based on your florist's recommended timetable.
$______
Baker
Reserve your date - coordinate details of wedding cake and other items as appropriate.
$______
Musicians, disk jockey, etc.
Reserve your date - coordinate details one-two months in advance.
$______
Set appointments for hair, medical, dental
$______
Select bride's gown
$______
Select attendants' gowns and accessories
$______
Select china, crystal and silver patterns
$______
Register with gift & department store registries
$______
Record gifts and write thank-you notes as they arrive
$______
Plan the seating for the bridal table, parents' table, and other tables, if applicable
Checklist
