From the moment most couples say ‘yes!’, they become Event Planners overnight. Google Search histories are filled with venue searches, Pinterest boards are created and enquiries are sent. For some, this is exciting! For others, this is overwhelming. Whatever camp you fall into, I want to ensure you are confident in your wedding planning by giving you the free wedding planning timeline.
Because each engagement period is different from couple to couple, this timeline will be split into phases. Consider it your wedding to-do list, going from top to bottom as you create your wedding day.
Phase 1: Values, Budget, Theme & Guestlist
Shortly after getting engaged, you need to decide with your partner what you value most out of your wedding day and what is important to you. For example, when you envision your day, is it an intimate occasion or a large party? Are there any faith-based or cultural elements that are important to you? What 3 things are non-negotiables on your day?
Woven into your values is your budget. How much is reasonable for you to spend? What is affordable for you now, and what could you potentially save in the future?
How do you want the day to feel and look? Do you want it to feel relaxed or more structured? Do you want a traditional English wedding or something a lot more bespoke? Work out together what is important to you. This is where Pinterest will be your best friend!
Finally, it’s time to gather your guestlist and decide who you want to be present on your day. This will also help inform your venue search and the capacities to look for.
Phase 2: Supplier Search (Round 1)
Below is the suggested order to search for and book your suppliers, based on lead times, availability and necessity.
- Wedding Planner (if having)
- Venue
- Registrar/Church (if having)
- Caterers (if not supplied through venue)
- Photography & Videography
- Entertainment (DJ/Band etc)
Phase 3: Supplier Search (Round 2)
- Wedding Dress
- Florist
- Wedding Cake
- Bar Company (if not supplied through venue)
- Stationery
- Suits & Bridesmaid Dresses
- Styling
- Additional furniture and hire items
Phase 4: Marriage Preparation
This is something that is missed in almost all the weddings I’ve been to, however, in all the preparing for the wedding day, we often forget to prepare for the marriage. As much as we love a fantastic event, your marriage will be longer lasting, and is the reason for the celebration in the first place.
If you are getting married in a church, chances are you will be asked to do some form of marriage preparation course. These are not boring, but on the contrary, often feel like a date night with a marriage focus, just for the two of you. Marriage courses can be accessed here.
If a marriage course isn’t for you, I recommend going on a date and asking each other the six questions to consider as you prepare to get married.
Phase 5: The Final Stretch!
With your suppliers booked and marriage prep done, it’s time for the final stretch before the wedding. If you haven’t booked a Wedding Planner, this is where booking a Wedding Day Coordinator can be particularly helpful, and a more affordable option.
6 weeks before your wedding, my role as a Wedding Coordinator is to gather all your final details about the day, from suppliers to timings. Building your wedding day timeline and communicating with your suppliers ready in preparation, I then take over the logistics of the day, from set-up of your venue, moving guests and ensuring each aspect runs smoothly.
