You don't know what you don't know. Until you're planning a wedding.
You're engaged! Between celebrating and dreaming about the day, there's a lot to figure out. And you're planning one of the biggest days of your life without being a professional wedding planner.
I was that bride. I started with a checklist, but kept discovering things I'd never thought to include—big decisions and details I didn't realize mattered.
That's why I created this checklist: everything I learned, including what I missed the first time.
A sneak peek at 5 of the 124 items on my complete checklist.
Timelines are flexible—adjust them to your wedding and vendor availability.
If you're hiring a wedding planner, reach out before booking other vendors. They can help with early decisions and building your team. Already 9–12 months out without one? Now's the time. Popular venues and vendors book far in advance, too.
Many dresses are made to order and can take up to nine months to arrive. Off-the-rack is an option, but either way, allow time for multiple fittings. I needed three to get my dress and bustle just right.
Give guests time to plan, especially if they'll need to travel or book accommodations.
Use your invitations, RSVPs, and wedding website to keep guest details in one place.
Your photographer knows how to capture beautiful images, but not which people, traditions, and moments matter most to you. Tell them ahead of time.
Including skincare or beauty treatments in your wedding plans? The complete checklist has a dedicated Skincare & Beauty Timeline, too. Not your thing? Simply skip it.
Everything I learned, from big decisions to easily missed details, organized month by month through wedding week and beyond.
See the shop for the current price. The free Checklist Tool is available separately.