Planning a wedding is an exciting and joyous journey, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially with just six months to sort it all. At The West Mill, we understand the importance of every detail and have crafted this comprehensive checklist to guide you through the final months leading up to your special day. Follow our wedding planning checklist to ensure everything runs smoothly and you enjoy every moment of your wedding preparation.
6 Months Before the Wedding
1. Set Your Budget
Your budget will shape many of your wedding decisions, so it’s crucial to establish this early on. Discuss with your partner and any contributing family members to set a realistic budget for your wedding.
2. Finalise the Guest List
Create a final guest list to give you an accurate number for catering, seating, and invitations. This will also help you stay within your budget.
3. Book Key Suppliers
- Venue: If you haven’t already, book your venue. Check out our late availability offers if you fancy a 6 month turnaround!
- Photographer/Videographer: Secure a professional to capture the memories of your special day.
- Styling & Florists: Find the perfect team to bring your wedding day vision together.
- Entertainment: Book a band, DJ, or any other entertainment you desire.
- Celebrant/Registrar: Whether you’re having a celebrant ceremony with the legal part before, or you need an official registrar for the big day, find someone you get on with really well.
5 Months Before the Wedding
1. Choose Your Wedding Party
Select your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any other members of your wedding party. Inform them of their roles and responsibilities.
2. Finalise the Menu
Work with our catering team Jenkinsons to plan the perfect menu. Attend your taster evening to get an idea for their creative cooking.
3. Send Your Day Guests Invitations
Send out your invitations for the guests you’d like to attend both the ceremony and reception. Make sure to mention things like accommodation and parking if necessary. You’ll need to get their menu choices along with their RSVP.
4. Brides: Start Dress Shopping
Begin the search for your wedding dress or outfit and schedule fittings.
5. Grooms: Find Your Outfit
Get together with your groomsmen and pick out the perfect suits well in advance.
4 Months Before the Wedding
1. Finalise the Styling and Theme
Decide on the wedding theme, colour palette, and specific decor elements. Consult with your florist and wedding stylist to bring your vision to life.
2. Plan the Ceremony
Meet with your celebrant to discuss the details of the ceremony. Plan readings, vows, and any special rituals you’d like to include.
3. Arrange Transportation
Book transportation for the wedding party and guests if necessary.
3 Months Before the Wedding
1. Send Evening Invitations
Send out your wedding invitations for evening guests. Include all necessary details such as RSVP instructions, directions, and accommodation information.
2. Order the Cake
Schedule a tasting and choose a cake design that fits your wedding theme.
2 Months Before the Wedding
1. Organise the Rehearsal Dinner if you Plan to Have One
Plan the rehearsal dinner and send out invitations to those involved in the ceremony.
2. Purchase Wedding Rings
Select and purchase your wedding bands. Remember to allow time for any resizing.
3. Meet with Suppliers
Have meetings with your suppliers to confirm all details. Create a timeline for the day and ensure everyone is on the same page.
4. Confirm RSVPs
Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded to your invitation. Provide final numbers to your venue.
1 Month Before the Wedding
1. Final Outfit Fitting
Attend your final dress/suit fitting and ensure all alterations are perfect. Make sure the wedding party’s attire is also ready.
2. Create a Seating Plan
Arrange seating for your guests. Consider relationships and dynamics to create a pleasant atmosphere.
3. Prepare Your Vows
Write your vows and practice reading them aloud.
4. Refer Back To This Wedding Planning Checklist
See how you’re getting on and get things crossed off. Have you missed anything?
2 Weeks Before the Wedding
1. Confirm Details with Suppliers
Double-check all arrangements with your suppliers. Confirm arrival times, services, and payments.
2. Pack for Your Honeymoon
If you’re leaving shortly after the wedding, start packing for your honeymoon.
3. Finalise the Timeline
Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day and share it with your venue, suppliers, wedding party, and anyone else involved.
1 Week Before the Wedding
1. Pamper Yourself
Take time to relax and pamper yourself. Schedule a spa day, manicure, and any other treatments you’d like.
2. Rehearse
Attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Walk through the ceremony with your wedding party to ensure everyone knows their role.
The Day Before the Wedding
1. Set Up
If your venue allows, start setting up any personal decor items.
2. Relax
Spend time with family and friends, and try to get a good night’s sleep.
The Big Day
1. Stay Calm and Enjoy
Take a deep breath and enjoy every moment. Trust in your planning and the team you’ve assembled to make your day perfect.
Congratulations! With this wedding planning checklist, you’re well on your way to a beautiful and memorable wedding. If you stick to the list, you can easily plan a wedding in just 6 months.
Team West Mill x
PHOTO CREDIT: ESTHER LOUISE TRIFFITT PHOTOGRAPHY