Are You Ready? Your Essential Wedding Planning Timeline Tips for a Stress-Free Day

So, you’re engaged? Pop the champagne, do a little happy dance, and get ready to plan the wedding of your dreams! Planning a wedding is a big task, but with an 18-month timeline, you’ve got plenty of time to make magic happen. Here’s your step-by-step guide to staying on track and making sure no detail gets overlooked.

18 Months Out – Dream & Research

This is the fun part! Start by picturing your dream wedding—location, vibe, and guest count.

• Set a rough budget (trust us, this will help everything fall into place).

• Create a Pinterest board for all your inspo.

• Book a wedding planner if you’re using one.

• Start researching venues and vendors. (Psst… check out our directory for some amazing options!)

16-12 Months Out – Lock in the Big Stuff

Now’s the time to start making it official!

• Book your venue and lock in your wedding date.

• Choose your bridal party (get ready for happy tears!).

• Secure key vendors: photographer, videographer, caterer, and band/DJ.

• Say yes to the dress! Some designers take months, so don’t delay.

• Create your guest list—yes, this can be tricky!

9-6 Months Out – Get Into the Details

Things are starting to feel real now!

• Finalise your décor style and book rentals.

• Send your save-the-dates if you haven't already.

• Choose bridal party attire.

• Start planning your honeymoon.

• Book hair and makeup artists.

• Schedule your engagement shoot.

5-3 Months Out – The Finishing Touches

It’s crunch time!

• Send invitations.

• Plan your seating chart.

• Have dress fittings.

• Organise your wedding timeline.

• Book transport for the day.

• Choose wedding bands.

2-1 Months Out – Nearly There!

Deep breaths—you’ve got this.

• Have your final dress fitting.

• Confirm all vendor details.

• Prepare vows and speeches.

• Pamper yourself with a spa day.

• Break in your wedding shoes.

• Have a final venue walk-through.

The Final Week – Enjoy the Moment

• Pack an emergency kit (hello, bobby pins and tissues!).

• Delegate last-minute tasks to your bridal party - such as sorting the wedding morning food and drinks or ensuring everyone's dresses are steamed.

• Get a good night’s sleep before the big day.

Enjoy every second, because your dream day is finally here! And remember, our wedding directory is here for any last-minute inspiration and vendor needs.