The wedding plans can take months to complete. It is helpful to have some idea as to what needs to be done and when it should be completed. Certain things take longer (ordering bridesmaid dresses) while some things don’t require as much time (Planning the vows). Here is a comprehensive list of what needs to be done and how far in advance of the wedding it needs to happen. Be aware that you can plan a decent wedding in just a few months if you try hard.
Booking the church
The church or synagogue you want may book up a year in advance. Remember that spring and summer dates book more quickly. Shortcut – if you have less than a year choose a Friday or Sunday wedding date or opt to have the ceremony at an alternate location.
Reception Hall
These book up 12 months to 24 months ahead of time. If you have less time consider other options including alternate places and using a caterer. Always have your venue date secured before proceeding.
Invitations
If ordering from a printer may take 6 – 12 weeks. Allow extra time to stuff and address the envelopes. Invitations should be sent out about 8 weeks ahead of date. Shortcut – Print your own invitations on your home computer for timesavings of more than 6 weeks.
Bridesmaid Dresses
Ordering these requires 6 months or more. Don’t forget to allow some time for trying on the dresses before finally choosing one. You should also allow at least a month between picking up the dresses and the wedding date to allow for alterations. Shortcut – Choose off the rack dresses in similar colors. A fun way to dress your bridesmaids!
Tuxedos
Most formal wear shops require about 6 months in advance, more if the wedding is around the time of local proms. Shortcut – Dress the men in suits instead of tuxedos, which can be more easily obtained from a department store.
Photographer
Book the photographer at least 6 months ahead of the date. The best local photographers may book up to a year in advance. Shortcut – If you have less time, call around for cancellations. Also, ask for the names of other reputable photographers in the area.
Florist
Good florists may book 6 months ahead of date. If you know of a good florist secure the date as soon as possible. Follow up later with the complete order and color requirements. Shortcut – Order paper or silk flowers, which are available all the time.
Wedding Cake
Order your wedding cake as early as possible, usually about 8 months ahead of date. Shortcut – order a single layer wedding cake for display and get pound cake and a chocolate fondue.
Table Decorations and Favors
These may take a long time to make or a little time to make depending on the intricacy of design. Shortcut – Use simpler décor ideas for the tables and order decorated cookies as favors.