Wedding Day Checklist: The Ultimate Guide
From the Small Details to the Big Moments
At JTR Media, we’ve created a free wedding planning checklist to guide you through every step of the planning process, from 12+ months out to the big day—and beyond. Stay on top of your to-dos and add your own personal tasks along the way.
With a little organization, you'll have more time to enjoy the journey and celebrate the love you’re about to share!
Wishing you an unforgettable wedding experience!The Ultimate Wedding Day Checklist: Plan Your Perfect Wedding from Start to Finish
At JTR Media, we understand that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It’s filled with joy, love, and memories that will last forever. As photographers and videographers, we’ve had the honor of capturing so many beautiful weddings, and we’ve seen firsthand how much effort goes into planning every detail. To help ensure your big day is everything you’ve dreamed of, we’ve created the ultimate wedding planning checklist broken down by timeline.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Make a Guest List Start by creating an initial guest list. This will help you estimate your budget and choose the right venue. Remember, you can always revise it later, but having a starting point is crucial.
Decide on Style and Theme Choose a theme or style that reflects your personality and the atmosphere you want for your wedding. Whether it's elegant and classic, rustic and casual, or modern and chic, the theme will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
Choose a Bridal Party Select your bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers. It’s a big decision, as these are the people who will support you on your special day!
Book a Venue This is one of the first and most important steps. The venue sets the tone for your wedding day. Whether it's a beach, a garden, or a formal ballroom, make sure it fits the vibe you envision.
Hire a Photographer We always recommend booking a photographer early, especially if you're having a wedding during peak season. The best photographers, like us, get booked months in advance!
Hire a Band/DJ Whether you prefer live music or a DJ, make sure you book entertainment that will keep your guests dancing all night long. Music is one of the most memorable parts of the celebration!
Wedding Dress Shopping Start shopping for your dream wedding dress. This can take time, as finding "the one" and getting alterations may require multiple fittings.
9-12 Months Before the Wedding
Select a Caterer Food is a big part of your wedding experience. Meet with caterers to sample their menus and choose the best option for your guests.
Select Save the Dates & Invitations Your invitations set the tone for your wedding. Choose a design that reflects your theme and personality. Once you've decided, make sure to order them in time.
Bridesmaid Dresses Choose dresses for your bridal party. Make sure they align with the theme and feel comfortable for your bridesmaids.
Book Flowers Select a florist who understands your vision and can create beautiful floral arrangements that match your theme. From bouquets to centerpieces, flowers bring life to your wedding decor.
Create a Wedding Website A wedding website is a great way to share all the details about your big day, from travel accommodations to the schedule of events. Plus, it makes RSVPs a breeze!
Order Invitations Once you’ve selected the design, it’s time to order your wedding invitations! Make sure you allow enough time for them to be printed, addressed, and mailed.
6 Months Before the Wedding
Choose Wedding Rings Start shopping for your wedding bands. Consider your personal style and look for rings that complement each other.
Book Honeymoon Plan the trip of a lifetime! Book your honeymoon well in advance to ensure you get the best destinations and deals.
Schedule Wedding Shower The wedding shower is a fun and intimate way to celebrate with close family and friends. Work with the maid of honor or a trusted family member to plan this special event.
Send Invitations By now, it’s time to send out your invitations. Give your guests enough time to RSVP and prepare for your big day!
Order Wedding Cake Schedule a cake tasting and decide on the flavor and design of your wedding cake. The cake is not only a sweet treat but also an important part of the wedding decor.
3 Months Before the Wedding
Create Seating Chart Start planning where your guests will sit during the ceremony and reception. This is an essential part of the final touches!
Choose Guest Favors Thank your guests for attending with thoughtful wedding favors. These little gifts are a fun way to add a personal touch to your celebration.
Meet with the Officiant If you’re having a religious or civil ceremony, meet with your officiant to go over the details, vows, and any other requirements.
Hair and Makeup Trial Schedule a trial for hair and makeup to ensure you love the look and feel confident on the big day.
Book Transportation Book your wedding day transportation, whether it’s a limo, vintage car, or bus for guests.
Choose Ceremony Songs Pick out your ceremony music, including the processional and recessional songs, as well as any special moments during the ceremony.
1 Month Before the Wedding
Dress Fitting This is the final fitting to ensure your wedding dress fits perfectly. Don’t forget your shoes and accessories for the fitting!
Pick Up the Marriage License Be sure to pick up your marriage license in advance and make sure all legalities are in order.
Write Wedding Vows If you're writing your own vows, now is the time to start! Put your heart into these beautiful words.
Finalize the Guest Count Confirm the number of guests attending and provide the final headcount to your venue and caterer.
1 Week Before the Wedding
Practice Wedding Vows Rehearse your vows and get comfortable with them. You want to say them with love and confidence on your big day.
Mani & Pedi Treat yourself to a relaxing manicure and pedicure to look and feel your best.
Facial Treatment Get a facial treatment to give your skin a glow before your wedding day. You’ll look radiant in every photo!
Hair Appointment Book a hair appointment for the final styling before your big day.
After the Wedding
Send Thank You Cards Show your appreciation to your guests by sending thank-you cards after the wedding. This is a thoughtful gesture that goes a long way.
Order Wedding Photo Album Don’t forget to order a fine art photo album so you can relive the memories of your wedding day for years to come.
Share Photos Share your wedding photos with friends and family on social media or through a private online gallery.
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with this checklist in hand, you can stay organized and ensure every detail is perfect. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating love, so take the time to enjoy the journey, and let JTR Media help you capture every beautiful moment. We're here to make sure you have timeless memories to cherish forever!