The Ultimate Bridal Wedding Checklist: Your Step by Step Guide to “I Do”
Planning your dream wedding? This ultimate bridal wedding checklist walks you through every step from engagement to honeymoon so you never miss a thing.
You’re engaged, congratulations! 🎉
Now comes the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part: planning your big day. Whether you have eighteen months or six, a wedding checklist keeps everything on track and helps you actually enjoy the journey.
This ultimate bridal wedding checklist breaks down what to do and when, covering everything from your venue and dress to invites, décor, and that all important honeymoon.
Twelve Months Before Dream Plan and Book
Your engagement glow is still fresh but this is the time to get the big decisions locked in.
To do list:
- Set your wedding budget and priorities
- Draft your guest list (approximate numbers)
- Choose your wedding theme and colour palette
- Book your ceremony and reception venue
- Hire a planner if you are using one
- Research and book key vendors such as photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, band or DJ
- Start dress shopping and schedule fittings early
- Create your wedding website and registry
- Check marriage licence requirements in your area
💡 Pro tip: The earlier you book major vendors, the more choice and savings you will have.
Eight to Six Months Before Design and Decide
You have locked in the big pieces. Now it is about details and design.
To do list:
- Finalise guest list and send save the dates
- Choose bridesmaids’ dresses and groomsmen attire
- Book transportation and guest accommodation
- Do cake tasting and confirm your baker
- Order wedding invitations and stationery
- Book hair and makeup trials
- Purchase wedding rings
- Confirm menu with your caterer
- Start planning your honeymoon
💡 Pro tip: Keep all your contracts, invoices and inspiration in one shared folder to save hours later.
Five to Three Months Before Finalise the Fun Stuff
This stage is where everything starts to feel real. Time to pull it all together.
To do list:
- Send formal invitations and set an RSVP deadline
- Order or make wedding favours and signage
- Create your seating chart draft
- Confirm ceremony details with your officiant
- Choose playlist or songs for key moments
- Confirm rental items such as chairs, décor, or lighting
- Buy bridal accessories such as veil, shoes and jewellery
- Write or personalise your vows
💡 Pro tip: Book your final dress fitting early as alterations can take weeks.
Two to One Months Before Prep Polish and Confirm
It is the home stretch. This is where communication and organisation matter most.
To do list:
- Follow up on RSVPs and finalise numbers
- Send your final guest list to caterers and venues
- Schedule hair, makeup, and beauty treatments
- Buy gifts for your bridal party and family
- Create your wedding day timeline for vendors and bridal party
- Confirm vendor arrival times and payments
- Break in your wedding shoes
- Have a rehearsal dinner and final run through
💡 Pro tip: Keep an emergency bag handy with safety pins, tissues, double sided tape, band aids, and breath mints.
The Week Of Stay Calm and Enjoy the Countdown
You are nearly there. Breathe, relax, and focus on the celebration.
To do list:
- Steam your dress and veil
- Confirm all vendor timelines and deliveries
- Prepare final payments and tips in labelled envelopes
- Pack for your honeymoon
- Do a venue walk through with your coordinator
- Lay out your outfits and accessories
- Get a good night’s sleep before the big day
💡 Pro tip: Appoint a friend or planner to handle any last minute issues so you can stay stress free.
The Big Day Soak It All In
Morning checklist:
- Eat something light and drink water
- Be ready for hair and makeup on time
- Have your photographer capture getting ready moments
- Keep essentials nearby such as lipstick, tissues, and perfume
- Hand over rings, vows, and schedule to your planner or maid of honour
Then simply smile, breathe, and enjoy every second. You have earned it.
After the Wedding Wrap Up and Relax
To do list:
- Send thank you notes to guests and vendors
- Clean and preserve your dress and veil
- Leave reviews for your favourite vendors
- Pay any outstanding balances
- Collect your photos and video
- Share your story, maybe even in a blog like this one
💡 Pro tip: Create a digital album and share your favourite shots on your wedding website or social media.
Final Thoughts
Weddings can feel like a full time job but they don’t have to. With a clear checklist, a little planning, and people you trust around you, it becomes one of life’s most rewarding projects. Remember, perfection is not the goal, celebration is.