Planning Your Dream Wedding? Find Your One-Year Checklist Inside

12 Months To Go: Start With The Big Picture

Anjali highlighted that the first step to stress-free planning is setting your foundation. She recommends starting by deciding the basics like finalising your wedding date and creating an estimated budget. A clear budget is your anchor as it determines everything from your venue options to the scale of your décor.

Next, compile your guest list. Even an approximate headcount will guide your decisions about the size of the venue and catering. Once this is done, move on to booking your venue which needs to be secured as early as possible. Whether you dream of a romantic beachside ceremony or a regal palace wedding, booking ahead ensures you’ll get the location you love.

Anjali recommends hiring a professional wedding planner. Planners streamline decision-making, manage logistics and help bring your dream wedding to life without the stress.

9-11 Months To Go: Form Your Dream Team

Anjali mentioned that with the date and venue set, start curating your wedding vendors. She recommends booking your photographer, videographer, caterer, florist and entertainment during this window. The best professionals are often booked months in advance, so lock them right away to avoid disappointment.

She also recommends that at this point, you could start looking at bridal outfits, (for the ceremony, pre-wedding functions, and receptions) to allow ample time for fittings and customisations.

Don’t forget accommodations for your out-of-town guests. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, block hotel rooms well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

6-8 Months To Go: Design And Décor

This phase is all about your wedding’s personality. Anjali recommends sitting down with your planner or decorator to finalise the theme, colours and the overall vibe of the event. Think about florals, centrepieces, table settings, lighting - all the elements that will transform your
venue.

According to Anjali, begin designing your wedding invitations as well. Whether it's Digital or printed, make sure they align with the style of your celebration. If you plan to send save-the-dates, now’s the time to get them out.

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3-5 Months To Go: Details, Details, Details

According to Anjali, this is the time to establish whether everything starts coming together. She recommends scheduling food and cake tastings to finalise menus for every function. Work closely with your caterer to accommodate dietary preferences and themes You can start shopping for wedding accessories, including footwear, jewellery and other finishing touches. Additionally, arrange for makeup and hair trials to ensure your look is exactly as envisioned. You can also begin choreographing dances if you’re planning a sangeet or reception performance.

1-2 Months To Go: Final Countdown

Anjali recommends sending out invitations to your guest list and keeping track of RSVPs. She suggests creating a seating plan for the ceremony and reception. Confirm all bookings and timelines with your vendors - photographers, florists, entertainment, and transportation providers - so everyone is aware of their role. Prepare a wedding day itinerary for yourself, your partner and your family to ensure a smooth flow of events.

Final Weeks: Take A Deep Breath And Enjoy

With just weeks to go, Anjali advises you to focus on yourself. Schedule spa treatments, finalise vows and pack your honeymoon bags. Trust your vendors and planner to handle last-minute logistics. Let go of perfection and know that you’ve put in the effort. It’s finally time to enjoy your big day.

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Bookmark this wedding planning checklist for stress-free wedding planning.

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