Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be one of the most exciting and memorable experiences of your life. At Svigngarot Media, we've helped hundreds of couples bring their wedding visions to life. Based on our experience, we've created this comprehensive wedding planning guide to help you navigate the entire process from engagement to the big day.

Your Wedding Planning Timeline

A well-structured timeline is essential for staying organized and ensuring you don't miss any important details. Below is our recommended timeline, but feel free to adjust it based on your specific timeframe and circumstances.

12 Months Before
  • Celebrate your engagement
  • Set a budget and determine who is contributing
  • Create a guest list draft
  • Choose your wedding party
  • Start researching venues for ceremony and reception
  • Begin looking at photographers, videographers, and other key vendors
  • Consider hiring a wedding planner if your budget allows
9-10 Months Before
  • Book your venue(s) and set the date
  • Secure your ceremony officiant
  • Book your photographer and videographer
  • Start shopping for wedding attire
  • Research florists, caterers, and entertainment options
  • Create a wedding website if desired
  • Send save-the-dates for destination weddings
6-8 Months Before
  • Order your dress (if you haven't already) to allow time for alterations
  • Book your caterer and decide on a menu
  • Hire your entertainment (band, DJ, etc.)
  • Book your florist after discussing your vision
  • Arrange transportation for the wedding day
  • Book accommodation for out-of-town guests
  • Register for gifts
  • Send save-the-dates (if not already sent for destination wedding)
4-5 Months Before
  • Schedule cake tastings and book your baker
  • Choose and order wedding invitations
  • Plan and book your honeymoon
  • Arrange your rehearsal dinner venue
  • Shop for wedding bands
  • Finalize the menu and any special dietary requirements
  • Begin planning ceremony details and vow writing
3 Months Before
  • Send out wedding invitations
  • Order any rental items needed (chairs, tables, linens, etc.)
  • Have a final dress fitting
  • Confirm details with all vendors
  • Create a wedding day timeline
  • Arrange for hair and makeup trials
  • Choose ceremony readings and music
1-2 Months Before
  • Track RSVPs and follow up with guests who haven't responded
  • Create seating plan and place cards
  • Have final consultations with vendors
  • Confirm honeymoon arrangements
  • Purchase gifts for wedding party and parents
  • Finalize ceremony details with your officiant
  • Apply for marriage license
  • Break in your wedding shoes
2 Weeks Before
  • Confirm final guest count with caterer and venue
  • Create a detailed schedule for the wedding day
  • Arrange wedding day emergency kit
  • Confirm details with all vendors again
  • Pack for your honeymoon
  • Pick up your wedding rings
  • Delegate responsibilities to wedding party and family members
The Week of the Wedding
  • Attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
  • Confirm arrival times with vendors
  • Deliver welcome baskets to out-of-town guests
  • Get a manicure and other beauty treatments
  • Pack a bag for the wedding night
  • Rest and hydrate
  • Enjoy your last few days as an engaged couple

Budgeting Tips

Creating and sticking to a budget is one of the most important aspects of wedding planning. Here are some tips to help you manage your wedding finances:

  • Set priorities: Decide which aspects of the wedding are most important to you both, and allocate more of your budget to these areas.
  • Create a buffer: Allocate about 5-10% of your total budget for unexpected expenses.
  • Track everything: Keep detailed records of all deposits, payments, and contracts.
  • Consider off-peak dates: You can save significantly by getting married on a Friday or Sunday, or during off-peak months (typically November through April in the UK).
  • Be upfront with vendors: Share your budget constraints with vendors; many can suggest ways to achieve your vision within your budget.
  • DIY selectively: Choose DIY projects that you're confident in and that will truly save you money.

Guest List Management

Creating your guest list can be one of the most challenging parts of wedding planning. Here's how to approach it:

  • Start with your must-invites: Create a list of people who absolutely must be at your wedding.
  • Set some guidelines: For example, you might decide to only invite plus-ones for guests in serious relationships.
  • Consider venue capacity: Make sure your guest list works with your venue size.
  • Create tiers: If your initial list exceeds your budget or venue capacity, create a B-list to invite if A-list guests decline.
  • Be consistent: To avoid hurt feelings, apply the same rules to both sides of the family.

Choosing Your Venue

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding and will influence many other decisions. Consider these factors when selecting a venue:

  • Capacity: Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest count.
  • Budget: Remember to ask about all potential costs, including service charges and taxes.
  • Availability: Popular venues book up quickly, especially for peak season dates.
  • Location: Consider accessibility for guests, especially those travelling from out of town.
  • Style: Choose a venue that aligns with your wedding vision and requires minimal additional decoration.
  • Weather contingency: For outdoor venues, ensure there's a solid backup plan for inclement weather.
  • Restrictions: Ask about any restrictions on noise, end times, decorations, or outside vendors.

Working with Vendors

Building good relationships with your vendors is crucial for a smooth planning process. Here are some tips:

  • Research thoroughly: Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and view portfolios before meeting with vendors.
  • Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask about their experience, backup plans, and exactly what's included in their packages.
  • Get everything in writing: Ensure all agreements are clearly documented in contracts.
  • Communicate clearly: Share your vision, expectations, and any concerns upfront.
  • Stay organized: Keep all vendor information in one place for easy reference.
  • Be respectful: Remember that vendors are professionals; value their expertise and time.

Self-Care During Planning

Wedding planning can be stressful, so it's important to take care of yourself throughout the process:

  • Schedule planning-free days: Take regular breaks from wedding planning to maintain perspective.
  • Delegate tasks: Don't try to do everything yourself; involve your partner, wedding party, and family members.
  • Maintain other interests: Continue participating in activities you enjoy that aren't wedding-related.
  • Practice stress management: Whether it's meditation, exercise, or time with friends, find healthy ways to manage stress.
  • Focus on the relationship: Remember that the wedding is just one day, but your marriage is a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Remember that while planning is important, the most beautiful weddings are those that reflect the couple's love story and values. Don't get so caught up in the details that you forget to enjoy the process and the celebration itself.

At Svigngarot Media, we're here to help you navigate every step of your wedding journey. From photography and videography to full wedding planning services, our team of professionals is dedicated to making your special day everything you've dreamed of. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you in creating a truly magical wedding experience.