When it comes to planning, being prepared it the key to a successful wedding. We've made it easy with our step-by-step wedding planner checklist! From engagement responsibilities to honeymoon plans, countdown to your special day in a fun, organized fashion. Check everything off of the list as the tasks are accomplished and add on as needed.

Nine to Twelve Months Ahead

Announce your engagement.
Arrange a get-together for the families if they have not met.
Set the date, time and place for your wedding.
Choose Attendants (and ushers) for your wedding party.
Plan your budget and how expenses will be divided.
Estimate the size of your guest list.
Reserve your officiant, ceremony site and reception hall.
Book your photographer & videographer. Give them a checklist.
Choose your bridal gown and headpiece.
Plan for travel, passports, identification, etc.
If plan to hire a wedding consultant, do it now.

Six to Nine Months Ahead

Decide on a style & color theme.
Order attendants gowns, shoes and choose wedding attire for men. Schedule the fittings.
Book caterer.
Book florist & select arrangements.
Plan the music for ceremony.
Hire a DJ or band for reception entertainment.
Arrange for decorations.
Consult your travel agent to make honeymoon plans and reservations.
Order wedding rings.

Four to Six Months Ahead

Choose other attendants. You'll need someone for the guest book, cake, punch, food, flowers, clean-up, etc.
Purchase attendants gifts.
Purchase bride and groom gifts.
Select choose and accessories for the bride and bridesmaid.
Make hotel reservations for out-of town attendants & guests.
Take engagement pictures.
Finalize guest list.
Plan rehearsal dinner.
Select your tableware, linens and gift choices at your favorite stores and websites and list them with the bridal registry.
Order your invitations, inserts, placards, and thank-you notes.
Plan for wedding party transportation. Hire limousine driver if necessary.

Two to Four Months Ahead

Order cake.
Order decorations and party favors.
Purchase all wedding accessories such as a cake knife, wine glasses, tablecloths, guest book, ring pillow, etc.
Start addressing invitations.
Order wedding programs.
Order liquor, beer and beverages for reception.
Make final decisions for vows.

One to Two Months Ahead

Mail out invitations 6 weeks prior to your wedding
Start gathering RSVPs and determine amount of guests for the caterer.
Send out thank-you notes for prior shower gifts.
Verify all bookings.
Plan the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
Get your marriage license.
Make copies of the rehearsal and wedding day schedule and give one to each attendant.
Pick up your wedding rings.
Make beauty appointments for hair, make-up and nails.
Determine receiving line order, head table and immediate family seating for the reception.
Plan your bridesmaids luncheon and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

One to Two Weeks Ahead

Get everyone in for final fittings and make arrangements to pick up wedding attire.
Make arrangements for someone to pick up the mail, newspaper and care for your plants & pets while you're on your honeymoon.
Phone anyone who didn't RSVP and give your caterer the final number of guests.
Address announcements if you plan on sending any out after the ceremony.
Generally, the bachelor and bachelorette parties are one to two weeks before the ceremony. Have fun, but stay out of trouble!
Check the weather forecast the week of your wedding and plan accordingly.

The Night Before - Rehearsal & Dinner

Finish packing.
Make a list of things to remember tomorrow.
Deliver all wedding accessories, party favors, etc. to the ceremony and reception sites. Begin decorating if possible.
Have the final payments ready.
Go over itinerary and seating with attendants.
Give your attendants their gifts after dinner.
Instruct your attendants to eat properly and avoid alcohol before the ceremony to avoid any fainting spells.

Your Wedding Day

Check your to-do list. Pack everything in your car. Don't forget your marriage license, rings, luggage, make-up, extra pantyhose, etc.
Do any last minute arranging or decorating.
Get to the ceremony site or church early and be ready at the time advised by your photographer.
The bride should transfer her engagement ring from her left had to her right.
Don't worry about things beyond your control and enjoy your special day!