The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding: Essential Tasks to Complete 3+ Months Before Your Big Day
Congratulations! You’re officially in the home stretch of your wedding planning journey. With just over three months to go, the excitement is building and the big day is within sight. By now, you should have all of your key vendors confirmed, including your wedding planner, venue, caterer, photographer, florist, and more. However, there are still some key tasks that must be accomplished in order to stay on track.
Here is a comprehensive guide for these final months to help you stay organized and ensure everything goes smoothly from here on out.
Send out Invitations
It’s now time to send out those beautiful invitations you carefully selected. Aim to get them in the mail no later than three months before the wedding. This gives your guests ample time to RSVP, make travel arrangements, and plan accordingly. Be sure to include all the essential information, such as the date, time, venue, dress code, and any other important details.
If sending physical invites, this can be a great opportunity to give your guests a preview of what to expect from your wedding in terms of theme and colour scheme. Feel free to integrate different textiles, such as dried florals, ribbon, and stationary to create visual interest.
If you prefer to go the digital route, many services offer tracking, which can be of great help in keeping tabs on your guest count. However, be wary that some invites can go to your guests spam folders. Follow up as needed if you don’t hear from someone!
Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
Book your hair and makeup trials now to finalize your bridal look. This is a great opportunity to experiment with different styles and find the perfect look that complements your dress and overall wedding theme. Be sure to bring inspiration photos during your trials to share with your hair stylist and makeup artist to help them achieve what you’re after.
HINT - be sure to take the season into account when planning your hair and makeup. Getting married in the heat of summer? Be sure to work with your stylists to find a look that will last, no matter the humidex!
Finalize Ceremony Details
Work with your officiant to finalize the ceremony details. This includes writing your vows, selecting readings, and choose any special rituals or traditions you want to incorporate. If you’re having a religious ceremony, make sure you’ve completed any required premarital counseling or classes.
Order Wedding Bands
If you haven’t already, now is the time to order your wedding bands. Ensure to allow enough time for any customizations or sizing adjustments.
Plan the Rehearsal Dinner
Book your rehearsal dinner venue and start planning the details. Now is the time to finalize the guest list for the dinner, which typically includes close family, the bridal party, and out-of-town guests. Consider a casual, relaxed atmosphere to kick off the wedding festivities.
Create a Seating Chart
Begin working on your seating chart for the reception. This task can be a bit challenging before you receive your RSVPs, but it is worth it to get a general idea on your layout. This will give you plenty of time to make adjustments. Consider relationships, family dynamics, and guest preferences when arranging the seating.
Confirm Vendor Details
Reach out to all of your vendors to confirm the details of their services, arrival times, and any special requests. This includes the caterer, florist, photographer, videographer, DJ/band, and transportation services.
Organize Transportation
Ensure that transportation arrangements are in place for you, your bridal party, and your guests. This includes booking shuttles, taxis, or limousines. Make sure you have a clear schedule and route planned to avoid any confusion on the big day.
Purchase Bridal Party Gifts
Show your appreciation to your bridal party with thoughtful gifts. These can be anything from personalized items to jewelry or even experiences. Be sure to plan a special moment to present these gifts, whether it’s during the rehearsal dinner or on the morning of the wedding.
Prepare Your Marriage License
Research the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your area and begin the application process. Make sure you allow enough time to gather any necessary documents and schedule any appointments. Don’t forget to check the expiration date to ensure it’s valid on your wedding day.
Finalize Honeymoon
Finalize any remaining travel bookings for your honeymoon. Make sure you have all necessary travel documents and confirm any reservations. Start thinking about packing lists and any special items you’ll need for your trip.
Stay Healthy
With all the excitement and planning, it’s important to take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest. Consider scheduling some self-care activities, such as massages or spa days, to help you relax and de-stress. This can be a great activity to do with your bridal party or partner!
Closing Thoughts…
By staying organized and focused, you can ensure that the final months leading up to your wedding are enjoyable and stress-free. Remember, this is a special time in your life, so take the time to savour every moment and enjoy the journey to your big day.
Happy Planning!
Meg
