Ceremony Page

Second to the Normandy invasion, there's probably nothing that requires more careful long-range planning than a wedding. To prevent things from slipping between the cracks and to help you stay on track, use the following checklist:

12 Months Before

The question has been popped and you're in planning mode. Now is the time to pick the date, decide the style and scale of the event, and work out a budget. (If you're still speaking to each other after this important initial planning stage, that's a very good sign.) Once you've accomplished the above, it's time to:

If you haven't already, buy an engagement ring. Get tips on buying a diamond, check out nearby jewelers and browse for great diamond rings.
Hire a wedding consultant (if you want professional help)
Book wedding and reception sites
Find a caterer
Hire a photographer
Choose a florist
Select bridal attendants, best man, ushers
Plan for your financial future and discuss prenuptial agreements

6 to 12 Months Before

Start shopping for your wedding finery - it will take longer than you think! You'll need extra time if your garments are being made to order. And here's your moment to explain to your fiance that no one wears powder blue tuxes. Overcome his objections with some honeymoon planning.

Choose a gown for yourself and your bridal attendants
Find a tuxedo
Choose a person to officiate at the wedding, such as a clergyperson or judge
Plan your honeymoon
Determine the guest list and order invitations
Reserve a wedding night suite
Make arrangements for wedding music

2 to 4 Months Before

Book a restaurant for the rehearsal dinner
Book accommodations for out-of-town guests and plan their entertainment guide
Book the bride's beauty appointments
Address invitations.
Make a wedding wishlist (and check out these wonderful gift ideas)
Buy your wedding rings
Make appointment for a physical exam
Arrange wedding day transportation
Order the wedding cake
Start looking for a new home?

1 to 2 Months Ahead

You're heading for the wire. Don't forget to:

Mail invitations four to six weeks before the ceremony
Complete arrangements with the photographer, florist, caterer, musicians, reception hall, and wedding officiator
Write the vows/ceremony
Plan the rehearsal dinner
Get final fittings for bride's and attendants' gowns
Buy gifts for bridal attendants, best man, ushers
Buy bride and groom gifts for each other (if you're following this custom)
Send copies of ceremony readings to wedding participants

2 to 6 Weeks Ahead

Let's make it official. Time to get that marriage license. Contact city hall to find out the requirements for your state. Generally, you'll need:

Proof of age (birth certificate)
If divorced, a copy of divorce decree
If widowed, spouse's death certificate
License fee

Some states require a blood test. You must deliver the license to the officiant before the marriage can be performed. After the ceremony, the officiant will complete the license, sign it, and return it to the town clerk's office within the time specified by your state. Then don't forget to:

Complete legal and business details, such as changes to insurance and medical forms, bank accounts, etc.
Send wedding announcements to local newspapers
Get a formal bridal portrait

1 Week Ahead

Go over final details with your caterer, florist, reception hall management, DJ or band, and the officiant at your wedding. Make lists of all last-minute questions and leave nothing to chance (think Murphy's Law)! Sketch out your ideal scenario of how everything should work during the ceremony and reception. Then examine each detail to be sure you have it covered.
Give photographer/videographer the final list of pictures/shots you want
Call the etiquette-challenged guests who haven't RSVP'd
Go to your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner - relax and enjoy!

The Day Before

At this point everything should be covered. Take a breather! Pamper yourself at a local spa, get a massage or a manicure. Most important - get plenty of rest! You don't want bags under your eyes in those wedding photos.

The Big Day

Don't forget to eat something in the morning
Bride, have your hair/makeup done about three hours before the ceremony. Start dressing at least one hour before.
Groom, give your best man the bride's wedding ring. Put officiant's fee in envelope and give it to the best man to deliver after the ceremony. Don't forget to bring the marriage license!
Music starts 30 minutes before the ceremony. Five minutes before the ceremony, seat the groom's parents. Immediately before the processional march, seat the bride's mother.
Groom, dance first with your bride and then with your mother, your new mother-in-law and the bridesmaids.

After the Wedding

Send the announcement and wedding photo to local newspapers
Write and mail thank you notes