Wedding Planning Month-By-Month Checklist + Timeline

Planning your wedding can feel like a daunting task. You’ve likely never planned an event like this before, and, as such, it can be difficult to know where to start. Fear not, in this guide I’ll share a comprehensive wedding planning month-by-month checklist + timeline to help you navigate this exciting journey. Keep this guide handy on your wedding planning journey and leave that stress in your rearview mirror.

Every wedding day is entirely unique. While some couples will plan a luxurious celebration, completing most of the items on this checklist, others will revel in the simplicity of prioritizing those items that matter most. As a result, you may find that some items don’t apply to you or that you are planning your wedding on a different time frame than the 12 months provided below. Modify this guide as needed to suit your unique wedding day!

First Steps on Your Wedding Planning Checklist + Timeline

Celebrate Your Engagement.

Before diving into all the excitement of wedding planning, pause for a moment to cherish this significant step you’ve taken as a couple—you’re engaged! This milestone marks a new chapter in your journey together, so it’s important to celebrate it in a way that feels meaningful to both of you. 

Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two, a bottle of bubbly to toast to your future, or a relaxing staycation, make sure to honor this special moment together. The way you celebrate doesn’t have to be extravagant; what matters most is that it reflects your unique bond and sets the tone for all that lies ahead.

Insure Your Engagement Ring

While this may not have been something you immediately thought to do, it can be very important. If you or your partner made a significant investment in your engagement rings, it is crucial to ensure that they are protected. If the thought of losing or damaging your ring fills you with fear, then insuring it is a smart move.

Anything can happen—a lost stone during a hike, an accidental misplacement, or even the dreaded “ring falling down the sink” scenario. Having insurance in place from the start provides peace of mind and saves you from unnecessary stress.

Take Engagement Photos and Send Engagement Announcements

Capturing your engagement with photos isn’t just about snapping pictures—it’s about preserving moments that will make you smile for years to come. Looking back, these photos will remind you of the joy and anticipation you felt as you began this new journey together.

Besides being timeless keepsakes, engagement photos can serve multiple purposes. Your professional portraits can be used for engagement announcements, save-the-dates, and wedding invitations.

Once you’ve taken your engagement photos, it’s time to share your happiness with loved ones by sending out physical announcements or posting on social media. It’s a wonderful way to announce your next big step and celebrate your love story with those who matter most.

Get Inspired

Finally, it’s time to start visualizing your wedding day and laying the groundwork for your planning journey. Sit down with your partner and begin brainstorming ideas like scenery, locations, and activities. Explore platforms like Pinterest to gather inspiration and hone in on your preferred wedding aesthetic.

When you picture you and your partner saying ‘I do’ and sliding those rings on each other’s finger, where are you? Do you imagine yourselves surrounded by majestic Colorado mountains, beside alpine waters, or in a unique Airbnb? Reflect on the season or month that feels right for your celebration.

If you’re considering Colorado for your wedding and need guidance on the best time of year to tie the knot here, I have a helpful guide for you.

12 Months Before Your Wedding

Start Planning Your Engagement Party

Now is the time to consider hosting an engagement party if it’s something you’d like to include in your wedding journey. While you may have already celebrated the occasion privately, an engagement party allows you to include your loved ones in your celebration. It’s also a great opportunity to showcase your engagement photos, whether on invitations or as part of your party’s decor.

Create a Wedding-Specific Email Address

Setting up a dedicated wedding email address is a good idea for several reasons. Your separate email address can help you stay organized and keep your primary inbox clutter-free, especially as you navigate through the myriad of newsletters and updates that come with wedding planning. This central email hub serves as a shared space where both you and your partner can stay connected and informed throughout the planning process.

Additionally, having a wedding-specific email address makes it easier to unsubscribe from all wedding-related listservs once your big day is over. It’s a simple yet effective way to streamline communication and stay on top of your wedding preparations without overwhelming your personal email accounts.

Begin Budgeting

Set Your Price Limit

First, set your price limit by considering your current financial resources and any potential gifts or contributions from family.

Establish Your Wedding Priorities

To help with this, I always suggest my couples do a prioritization exercise:

• Individually, make a list of the top ten most important aspects for your wedding day, such as ambiance, location, or activities. No peeking at your partner’s list!
• Once done, combine the items you both included on your individual lists into a master list of ‘must-haves’.
• Work together to rank your combined list based on priority.

Start Thinking About Your Wedding Guest Count

Next, when planning your wedding budget, consider your guest list. Your guest count will significantly impact your budget, as it affects costs related to food, drinks, and venue size. Decreasing your guest count is the quickest way to reduce costs.

Create a Tool to Track Your Wedding Budget

Finally, create a tool to track your wedding budget. Using a spreadsheet or an online tracker can help you stay organized and ensure you and your partner are on the same page. This will make it easier to manage expenses and adjust your budget as needed.

For a more detailed guide on how to set and track your wedding budget, check out my blog.

Start Researching Venues or Locations

Once you have an idea of the setting and scenery you want for your wedding, it’s time to think about specific locations or venues. Whether you’re eloping or having a micro wedding, the possibilities are endless. Colorado offers over 300 registered wedding venues and more than 23 million acres of public land, featuring landscapes from desert to high tundra. With so many options, you’re sure to find somewhere in Colorado that fits your vision.

For ideas on Colorado wedding venue options, check out this list of my favorites.

And for public land locations, check out my guide which highlights 15 stunning spots to spark your interest.

Buy Event Insurance

More than likely, you are putting a lot of time, effort, and money into planning your wedding day. Just like your ring, you should protect that investment. Your venue may even ask for proof of insurance when you sign your contract. Event insurance comes in various packages and protects you if something impedes your wedding day. You may choose cancellation or postponement insurance, liability insurance in case a guest has an accident, or even special coverage for things like your wedding attire.

The cost of basic event insurance is generally reasonable, especially for micro weddings, sometimes totaling under $100. However, pricing varies based on factors like guest count and coverage options.

11 Months Before Your Wedding

Book Your Venue, Airbnb, or Public Land Ceremony Site

As you approach the 11-month mark on your wedding planning checklist + timeline, it’s time to secure your wedding venue, obtain permits for public land locations, or finalize arrangements with your chosen Airbnb wedding venue. Booking early ensures that your dream location is available for your desired date. If you’re considering an Airbnb for your micro wedding or elopement, check out my curated list of Colorado’s best Airbnbs that are perfect for celebrating your intimate wedding day.

Decide What Other Vendors You Want to Hire for Your Wedding Day

When planning your intimate wedding, the choices you make about vendors should reflect what matters most to you and your partner. Prioritization is key! Not every Pinterest trend or additional detail necessarily enhances your wedding day experience. It’s important to focus on what truly holds significance for you.

There are no strict rules about which vendors you must hire. Your wedding day should be a reflection of your unique vision and priorities. To help you make informed decisions, I’ve compiled a blog that offers insights into common vendors for micro weddings and elopements.

Begin Researching Desired Vendors

Once you’ve decided what vendors you want for your wedding day, finding the right ones is crucial to bringing your vision to life. Whether you need a photographer to capture your special moments or a baker to bring your cake dreams to life, each vendor you choose plays a vital role in creating memories that last a lifetime.

To assemble a stellar team that aligns with your vision and needs, approach your search with knowledge and careful consideration. It’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure prospective vendors understand your vision and are equipped to meet your expectations.

To assist you in this process, I’ve compiled a list of essential questions to ask prospective wedding vendors. This will help you make informed decisions and ensure that every detail of your wedding day reflects your unique style and preferences.

Refine Your Pinterest Boards to Communicate Your Vision Clearly

Take time to refine your Pinterest and inspiration boards. These visual collections are incredibly helpful for communicating your wedding vision to prospective vendors. As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how pictures can speak volumes and convey ideas when words fall short.

This clarity not only helps you solidify your vision but also enables vendors to understand your style and preferences more effectively. Whether it’s the ambiance, color scheme, or specific details you envision, curating your boards ensures clear communication.

By investing time to refine your Pinterest and inspiration boards now, you’ll streamline the planning process and pave the way for clear discussions with vendors.

10 Months Before Your Wedding

Book Your Photographer

Now that you’ve done your research and asked all the right questions, you probably have your favorite photographer picked out. Choosing someone to capture and preserve your wedding day is a big deal. These photos will be how you remember your wedding day for years to come and may even be passed down to future generations.

It’s essential to find a photographer who fits your style and vision and who you’ll be comfortable spending time with on your wedding day. Some photographers, like myself, include planning services in our packages. For example, I always offer my couples assistance finding the right location, creating their wedding day timeline, recommending and communicating with vendors, assisting with permits, and helping plan any special activities.

Booking early not only ensures that your preferred photographer is available for your wedding day but also gives you plenty of time to utilize their valuable planning assistance.

Plan Your Honeymoon

If you’re planning to go on your honeymoon right after your wedding, now is the time to start prepping. Decide on your budget, destination, and timing. Starting early ensures that all logistics are taken care of ahead of your wedding, saving you from unnecessary last minute stress. Early planning ensures you can fully enjoy both your wedding and your honeymoon without any last-minute hassles.

Choose Your Wedding Party and Plan Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

If you’re having a wedding party, ask them to participate in your wedding day well in advance. This gives them plenty of time to block off their calendars and prepare for their roles, including any planning help you may be asking for.

Being a crucial part of someone’s wedding day is an honor, and your wedding party will appreciate the time to prepare. When you ask your friends to be part of your wedding, it’s also a good opportunity to discuss plans for your bachelor or bachelorette parties. Decide on a date that works for everyone and whether you’ll have a destination party or stay close to home. This way, everyone can make necessary arrangements and you can ensure a memorable celebration with your closest crew.

Start Shopping for Your Wedding Attire

While 10 months might seem early to start shopping for your wedding attire, time flies when you are wedding planning! Finding ‘the one’ dress or suit may take multiple visits to different shops or websites. And once you find your perfect attire, production and alterations may take several additional months.

Begin by browsing for inspiration, visiting potential shops or online websites, and trying on dresses or suits within your budget. During peak wedding seasons, seamstresses may have long waitlists. Starting early ensures everything is taken care of without any last-minute wardrobe worries.

Begin Creating Your Wedding Registry

Starting your wedding registry early can be highly advantageous. It allows you and your partner ample time to carefully consider what you’ll need as you begin this new chapter together. Whether you choose traditional gifts, contributions to a honeymoon fund, or prefer to request donations to a favorite charity, early planning ensures you have plenty of time to brainstorm ideas and necessities.

9 Months Before Your Wedding

Schedule Tastings with Prospective Caterers

Deciding whether to hire a caterer or private chef depends entirely on your vision. You might envision a family-style table with catered meals, or perhaps a private chef preparing a locally-sourced multi-course dinner for you and your partner. Either way, it’s important to understand their offerings, specialties, and how they can bring your vision to life.

Book Your Room Block at a Nearby Hotel if Needed

If your friends and family are traveling for your special day, it’s wise to procure a room block early. This ensures that you secure enough rooms to avoid the hassle of accommodating guests split between multiple accommodations. Some wedding venues even offer on-site accommodations for you and your guests, making it convenient to stay close to the celebration.

If having accommodations at your wedding venue appeals to you, check out my list of Colorado micro wedding venues that offer guest lodging.

Book Your Florist and Share Your Pinterest Board

Booking your florist is not only a crucial part of wedding planning but also one of the most enjoyable tasks on your wedding planning checklist + timeline! Who can resist the beauty of stunning floral arrangements? Like photographers, florists are in high demand for micro weddings and elopements, often booking up well in advance.

When selecting your florist, it’s essential to discuss your vision and share your Pinterest board for inspiration. Learn about their style and the types of florals they specialize in. Each florist brings a unique touch, so finding one whose aesthetic aligns with your vision is key to creating the wedding day you’ve always dreamed of.

Book Your Videographer or Content Creator

A videographer enables you to capture even more memories of your wedding or elopement day. Additionally, content creation is also quickly gaining popularity, offering a unique behind-the-scenes perspective and quick recaps perfect for social media. 

These professionals enable your loved ones to relax and enjoy an unplugged day while ensuring you have video footage of your special moments. If you choose me as your photographer, I offer content creation alongside my wedding photography packages.

8 Months Before Your Wedding

Purchase Your Wedding Day Attire

If you’ve been shopping around for a few months, you’ve already tackled the hard part of this step! Now, it’s time to purchase your wedding attire so any alterations can be made with plenty of time.

Decide on Wedding Day Attire for Your Wedding Party

If you’re planning to have a wedding party, it’s time to decide on their attire. You may want their outfits to complement the overall aesthetic of your wedding celebration. Consider whether you’ll provide their attire or if they’ll purchase it themselves. If they need to buy it, ensure they have adequate time to save up for the purchase. It’s also important to consider if the chosen attire might become unavailable by the end of the season, requiring all members of your wedding party to promptly purchase.

Ordering attire early ensures you have ample time to address any potential issues, such as sizes selling out or the need for any alterations. This proactive approach helps to avoid last-minute stresses and ensures everyone looks their best on your special day.

Send Save-the-Dates, if You’re Doing So

It’s crucial to ensure your guests have ample time to mark their calendars, especially if they’re traveling from out of town. Mailed save-the-dates can be a fun way to share your engagement photos and are always a joy to receive. Alternatively, virtual save-the-dates offer an eco- and budget-friendly alternative, reducing paper waste and stationery expenses. They also provide a quicker and more reliable way to notify your guests about your upcoming wedding day.

Create Your Wedding Website for Guest Communication

Creating a wedding website is an excellent method to consolidate all your wedding information in one convenient location. It allows you to update details as necessary, ensuring your guests have access to the latest information whenever they need it.

7 Months Before Your Wedding

Begin Working on Any DIY Projects for Your Wedding Day

DIY projects can be a fantastic way to save money on your wedding budget, but they often require more time than anticipated. If you plan to include any DIY elements in your wedding day, ensure you and your partner start early to avoid last-minute stress. The nights before your wedding should be a time of relaxation and excitement, not a rush of hot glue and half-working twinkle lights.

Book Your Event Rentals

If your wedding venue or chosen location doesn’t provide essentials like tables, chairs, linens, decor, and place settings, it’s time to make arrangements with a rental company. For outdoor weddings, also consider a weather contingency plan, such as renting a tent. Renting these items can be a fun opportunity to infuse your wedding decor with personal touches, as there are many specialty rental companies that offer a variety of styles to suit your vision.

Book a Musician and/or Begin Working on Your Wedding Day Playlist

If you can’t imagine your wedding day without music, I’m right there with you! Music has the power to set the entire vibe of an event. Planning your dedicated wedding playlist early allows you and your partner to discover and add new songs and ensures you don’t forget any favorites.

If you’re opting for live music, such as an acoustic soloist or duet, now is the time to book them for your big day. Live music can add a special touch, and booking early ensures you secure your preferred musicians.

6 Months Before Your Wedding

Hire Your Officiant or Ask a Loved One

If you choose to hire an officiant for your wedding ceremony, you’ll want to do so approximately 6 months before your wedding date. Some states, including Colorado, offer the option to “self-solemnize,” meaning there are no strict rules for witnesses or officiants and couples can even marry themselves without an officiant.

If you prefer a more personalized touch but still want someone to guide your ceremony, consider inviting a friend or loved one to officiate. It’s a meaningful way to add a personal element to your wedding.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to self-solemnize in Colorado as well as tips for planning a “just us” ceremony, check out my guide.

Research Marriage License Requirements for Your Wedding State

Researching the legal requirements for your wedding shouldn’t be left until the last minute. You may need to gather rarely accessed documents and schedule appointments ahead of time. Some locations may have limited availability, so having a backup plan for appointment locations is a good idea. Ensure you thoroughly research the requirements in your state to avoid any surprises.

If you’re interested in learning how to obtain your Colorado marriage license, you can find more information at the link below.

Hire Your Caterer or Private Chef

If you’ve already completed tastings with potential caterers or private chefs, you’ve likely narrowed down your favorites. Now is the time to secure their services and start envisioning the delicious meal you’ll enjoy on your wedding day. Booking early ensures you lock in your preferred choice and allows ample time for menu planning, sourcing ingredients, and accommodating any special requests you may have.

Book Your Hair and Makeup Artist

Your wedding day hair and makeup artist plays a crucial role in ensuring you feel your best on your special day. When doing your research, find someone who specializes in your hair type or the specific style you envision. Share your Pinterest boards or other inspiration photos to gauge if they can bring your desired look to life.

Once you’ve gathered all necessary information and are confident in your stylist’s ability to create your desired look, you’ll want to secure their services approximately six months before your wedding day. This timeframe allows ample opportunity to coordinate any necessary trials or consultations.

Plan Your Wedding Shower, if Doing So

Wedding showers have evolved beyond traditional norms, offering couples a chance to celebrate in unique and meaningful ways. While traditional showers often focused on “showering the bride” with gifts and playing games, modern couples are embracing creative twists. Many opt for showers that honor both partners, reflecting their shared journey.

If you prefer to forego gifts, consider hosting a brunch, cookout, or even a group wine tasting instead. These alternative ideas provide opportunities for guests to enjoy each other’s company while celebrating your upcoming wedding in a more relaxed and personalized manner.

5 Months Before Your Wedding

Design Your Wedding Invitations

Designing your wedding invitations is an exciting milestone in your wedding planning checklist. It’s an opportunity to incorporate elements of your chosen wedding theme or color palette or share your engagement photos for a personal touch. Whether you opt for traditional paper invitations or virtual ones, ensure your RSVP system is clear for guests.

When ordering paper invitations, consider getting a few extras to photograph on your wedding day or to keep as cherished mementos.

Plan and Book Your Rehearsal Dinner

Your rehearsal dinner offers a final chance to gather with your loved ones before your big day. Whether you envision a cozy backyard gathering or a reservation at your favorite restaurant, this event can be as casual or elegant as you desire. It’s a time to unwind, enjoy good food and company, and build the excitement and anticipation for your wedding day.

Finalize Your Registry

After spending about 5 months adding items to your wedding registry or considering alternative gift ideas, it’s time to finalize your registry and begin sharing the link with your guests. This step ensures that your registry reflects your needs and gives guests ample time to contribute.

Book Cake Tastings

This has to be one of the most fun parts of your wedding planning checklist. With more flavor combinations than there are mountains in Colorado, you can get as creative and personal as you like. Whether you envision a traditional tiered cake or something more unique and personalized, it’s essential to ensure your cake meets your expectations both in appearance and taste. Booking tastings allows you to sample different options and make an informed decision that aligns with your wedding day vision.

Begin Planning Your Ceremony and Writing Your Vows

Planning your wedding ceremony is where the magic truly begins! Visualize how you want your ceremony to unfold: Who will walk you down the aisle? Will you include music? Will there be any flower girls or ring bearers joining you?

Consider your ceremony traditions—what will you keep or leave behind? Are there special rituals you’d like to include, such as handfasting or ‘jumping the broom’?

Writing your wedding vows is an incredibly personal and moving part of this process. While traditional vows are meaningful, crafting your own allows you to express your love, promises, and hopes in a way that is uniquely yours. Incorporate special memories, inside jokes, and aspirations for your future together. This is your journey together—sharing your heartfelt words adds a deeply personal touch to your ceremony.

For tips on writing your wedding vows, check out this dedicated section of my guide.

4 Months Before Your Wedding

Plan Any Other Wedding Weekend Events

As your wedding day approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in planning the main festivities. Around 4 months before your wedding, start planning any additional gatherings or events happening during your wedding weekend, such as a post-wedding brunch or a welcome dinner for out-of-town guests. This proactive approach prevents you from feeling overwhelmed in the final months, ensuring you can enjoy each celebration without added stress.

Order Your Wedding Invitations

If you’ve decided to mail paper invitations for your wedding, it’s crucial to place your order with a few months to spare. Although you’ve already completed the design process, starting early ensures ample time to make any necessary adjustments. This proactive approach helps mitigate potential issues and ensures your invitations are ready well in advance of your wedding day, allowing time to mail them and receive RSVPs.

Order Your Cake

That cake that stole your heart during your tastings? Now’s the time to chat with your baker and place your order! Bakers can get quite busy, especially during peak wedding season. Ordering your cake a few months in advance ensures that the baker and cake of your dreams are available for your special day. 

Book Wedding Day Transportation

Arranging transportation for your wedding day can be crucial, especially if your event spans multiple locations or your venue requires it. Providing group transportation not only simplifies logistics for guests but also promotes eco-friendly practices.

You can even look into creative transportation options like limos or trolley cars!

3 Months Before Your Wedding

Send Wedding Invitations

Now that you have designed and ordered your wedding invitations, it’s time to address and send them out! This step allows your guests ample time to RSVP, ensuring you have a clear headcount for your big day.

Order Wedding Rings

If you plan to exchange rings on your wedding day, now is the time to order your wedding bands. While you likely already have your engagement ring, ordering your wedding bands about three months out allows time for sizing and any necessary adjustments to ensure they are ready for your wedding day and beyond.

Purchase Gifts for Your Family, Wedding Party, or Significant Other

Thoughtful gifts can be a meaningful way to express gratitude to your loved ones for their support on your wedding day. Whether you’re planning to share special gifts with your family, wedding party, or significant other, it’s important to start ordering them now. Customized gifts or items from distant locations require extra time for production and shipping.

Confirm Honeymoon Travel Plans + Ensure Your Passport is Up to Date, if Needed

If you are planning your honeymoon, it’s time to finalize and book your travel arrangements. If you plan to travel internationally, make sure your passport is up to date and has empty pages available. Waiting until the last minute to renew or apply for your passport can cause unnecessary stress. Taking care of this now will help you avoid any potential delays or issues that could impact your honeymoon plans.

2 Months Before Your Wedding

Purchase Any Last-Minute Wedding Accessories

Two months out, it’s time to purchase any final touches for your wedding day attire. This includes items like jewelry, a custom hat, or a special pair of shoes. Purchasing these final items two months ahead allows you time to try on your complete ensemble and make any necessary adjustments before your wedding day.

Begin Alterations for Your Wedding Attire

By this point, you should have your wedding attire picked out and ordered. Now, it’s time to try on your outfit and determine if any further adjustments are needed before your wedding or elopement day. 

Meet with Your Officiant to Finalize Your Ceremony

If you’re hiring an officiant or having a loved one officiate your wedding, it’s important to plan with them well in advance. Discuss your expectations for your wedding ceremony, outline the structure, and clarify any specific parts they need to prepare for. This ensures everyone is on the same page and helps create a seamless ceremony.

Finalize Your Wedding Day Headcount

By this point, you should have received all of your RSVPs. If not, reach out to those who have not responded to get a definite headcount. This step is crucial as it helps you finalize the setup and arrangements for your wedding day.

Finalize Your Wedding Day Timeline

Now that you have your wedding day priorities, a final headcount, and a vision for how your wedding day will unfold, it’s time to finalize your wedding day timeline. This step is essential for coordinating with every wedding vendor and ensuring a smooth experience. A well-planned timeline specifies where everyone needs to be and when, preventing any unnecessary delays.

I always encourage couples to include moments alone on their wedding day. With the day passing quickly, taking a moment together to soak in the joy and significance of the occasion can be truly meaningful. When you work with me as your wedding photographer, I’ll help you create and refine your wedding day timeline to make sure your day is designed how you envision it.

1 Month Before Your Wedding

Print Any Paper Goods for Your Wedding Day

About a month before your wedding day, it’s time to print any remaining paper goods you’ll be including in your wedding day, such as schedules or signs. This step is not only practical but also an opportunity to get creative. Some couples choose to create personalized “wedding day programs” that include photos and background information about the couple, wedding party, and highlighted vendors, along with the weekend’s plans or the wedding day’s timeline. It’s a thoughtful touch that keeps everyone informed and on the same page.

Choose Music for Your Ceremony and First Dance

As you finalize your wedding day playlist, it’s crucial to select specific songs for your key wedding moments like your walk down the aisle and your first dance. Communicate your choices with whoever is assisting you with your music to ensure everything runs smoothly on the big day.

Break in Your Wedding Shoes

Here’s a tip you might not have considered: break in your wedding shoes early. There’s nothing worse than getting blisters on your special day, whether you’re wearing new hiking boots or fresh heels. To ensure comfort, start wearing your shoes around the house about a month before your wedding. This allows them to mold to your feet without risking scuffs or dirt before your big day.

Finalize Your Seating Chart

With your guest count confirmed and a clear list of attendees in hand, it’s time to finalize your seating chart, if you’ve chosen to have one. This step adds some of the finishing touches to your wedding day preparations. A practical approach is to visualize your wedding venue and use Post-it notes on a poster board to organize and arrange your seating chart. 

Get Your Marriage License

If you’ve already researched how to obtain a marriage license in your ceremony state, you should be familiar with the process. Gather all necessary documents for both you and your partner and keep them in a safe place where you won’t forget them. If you need a refresher on how to obtain a marriage license in Colorado, you can revisit the section of my blog that provides information on the process.

Confirm Wedding Day Plans with All Vendors

With just a month left before your wedding day, time seems to fly by quickly. Make sure to confirm your wedding day plans with your vendors. Provide them with a copy of your finalized timeline so they know where and when to be ready. Also, ensure they have a designated wedding day contact person. This could be a trusted family member who will answer calls and questions, or your own contact information if you plan to keep your phone on hand throughout your wedding day.

1 Week Before Your Wedding

Practice Your Vows

Let’s be honest – practice doesn’t always lead to perfection, and that’s perfectly fine. Whether you stumble over words or pause to shed a tear, it’s all part of the heartfelt process. The goal of practicing your vows is to feel comfortable and at ease when you speak them. If you’ve written your own vows, they come straight from your heart. Practicing them aloud can help you deliver them more smoothly and gauge their emotional impact. It’s a chance to connect deeply with your words and ensure they resonate on your special day.

Pack for Your Wedding

From wedding day essentials to a well-stocked emergency kit, there’s a lot to remember for your wedding day. To stay organized, create a clear checklist and tick off items as you pack them.

As someone dedicated to ensuring a stress-free wedding experience, I provide my couples with a Stephanie Yves Photography branded tote bag for all their wedding day details. This tote serves as a convenient place to keep your wedding day details, ensuring everything stays organized and easily accessible throughout the day. 

For more information on what to pack, check out my guide linked below.

Pack for Your Honeymoon if Leaving Straight from Your Wedding

If you’re heading directly to your honeymoon from your wedding location, it’s essential to have everything you need packed and ready to go. Prepare a list of items you’ll use on your wedding day, such as a phone charger and hairbrush, that you’ll transfer to your honeymoon bag once you’re finished with them. Additionally, ask a loved one for help returning those items that won’t be going with you on your honeymoon. This ensures a smooth transition from wedding to honeymoon without any last-minute packing stress.

Prepare Tip Envelopes for Your Vendors

As your wedding day approaches, it’s thoughtful to prepare tip envelopes for your vendors. While not all vendors expect tips, it’s a gesture that’s always appreciated. Whether you decide to tip or not, having clearly labeled envelopes for each vendor helps prevent confusion and ensures that tips are not forgotten amidst the excitement of your wedding day.

1 Day Before Your Wedding 

Steam Your Wedding Day Attire

Your wedding attire may become wrinkled during travel, whether from a far away destination or just a short drive into the mountains. As one of the final tasks on your wedding planning checklist + timeline, take a moment to steam your wedding attire. This ensures it looks exactly as you envisioned for your special day tomorrow!

Rehearse Your Ceremony, if Doing So

If you’re planning a wedding rehearsal, do so the day before your wedding. This ensures that everyone knows their roles and tasks, helping to set expectations for the big day. If you have a celebration planned after your rehearsal, remember not to overdo it, as you’ll want to feel your best for your wedding day!

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Prioritize getting a good night’s sleep the night before your wedding. Wedding days can be exhausting, so ensuring you’re well-rested will make a big difference. Sweet dreams!

Day of Your Wedding 

Follow Your Normal Beauty Regimen

On your wedding day, stick to your usual beauty routine unless otherwise advised by your hair and makeup artist. Continue with your regular practices of washing and moisturizing and show up ready with a clean face.

Eat a Hearty Breakfast

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast that will keep you feeling happy and energized throughout the day. While there should be snacks available, having a substantial breakfast ensures you won’t run out of steam or get hangry during the festivities. Choose foods that provide sustained energy, making it easier to enjoy every moment of your special day without feeling fatigued.

Enjoy Every Moment!

It’s your wedding day! This is the day you and your partner have been planning and eagerly awaiting. After all the hard work you’ve put into preparing for this day, now is your time to relax and savor every moment. Today, you get to marry the love of your life and embark on this incredible adventure together—soak it all in and cherish every single moment.

After Your Wedding Day

Return Any Wedding Rentals

If you rented anything for your wedding, whether it’s your attire, tables, chairs, or other items, it’s important to coordinate their return. Make sure you’re aware of the specific arrangements and timelines for returning these rentals to avoid any mishaps or additional costs.

Preserve Your Wedding Dress and/or Bouquet

Preserving your wedding dress and bouquet is a growing trend, and it allows you to cherish these items for years to come. There are several floral preservation options available, such as using shadow boxes or even integrating them into a resin piece or table. With so many creative options, do your research ahead of time and select a preservation method that best reflects your preferences and memories of your special day.

Send Thank You Cards

Sending thank you cards after your wedding is a thoughtful gesture to express gratitude to everyone who contributed to your special day. Take some time after the excitement settles to write and send these notes. It’s a meaningful way to acknowledge the efforts and contributions that made your wedding day memorable.

Change Your Name, if Doing So

Now that you’re married, if you or your partner decide to change your last name, it’s a process that requires a few steps. I recommend starting with updating your social security card. You can find the necessary forms and information on the Social Security Administration website to begin this process. Once your social security card reflects your new name, you can proceed to update other important documents and accounts, such as your driver’s license, bank and credit cards, loans, memberships, passport, and more.

Each institution or agency may have specific requirements for name changes, so it’s wise to review their guidelines and necessary documents to ensure a smooth transition. Often, you’ll need to provide a certified copy of your marriage license, so be sure to have an extra copy on hand. 

Let’s Start Crossing Off Your Wedding Planning Checklist + Timeline

Planning your wedding should be a joyful experience. Each decision, from selecting the perfect venue to finalizing the finest detail, plays a crucial role in creating your dream day. Intentional planning ensures your wedding day unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to fully enjoy your celebration.

It’s important to remember that every wedding is unique, and timelines can vary. You may find that some items in this guide don’t apply to your specific plans, or you might be working on a different schedule than the 12 months outlined here. Don’t forget you can always modify this guide as needed to fit your individual wedding vision.

And remember, I’m here to support you every step of your journey to create the perfect intimate wedding day. Reach out for personalized guidance to craft a wedding day that reflects your love story. Click below to get started!