From Engagement to ‘I Do’-A Wedding Planning Checklist

From Engagement to ‘I Do’: A Comprehensive Wedding Planning Checklist

Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting time marks the beginning of a beautiful journey towards your wedding day. Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with a well-structured checklist, you can navigate the process with ease and confidence. At All Class Entertainment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your wedding is as seamless and magical as you’ve always dreamed.

12-18 Months Before the Wedding: Laying the Foundation

  • Announce Your Engagement: Share the joyous news with family and friends. Consider hosting an engagement party to celebrate this special milestone.

  • Set Your Budget: Determine your overall wedding budget and prioritize spending based on what matters most to you, whether it’s the venue, entertainment, or floral arrangements.

  • Create a Guest List: Draft a preliminary guest list to get an idea of the size of your wedding. This will influence your choice of venue and overall budget.

  • Choose a Date: Pick a few potential dates for your wedding, considering factors like season, venue availability, and family schedules.

  • Hire a Wedding Planner: If you’re considering professional help, now is the time to hire a wedding planner to assist with logistics and vendor coordination.

  • Select Your Venue: Start touring venues and book your ceremony and reception locations. Consider the style and atmosphere you want to create.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding: Building Your Dream Team

  • Choose Your Wedding Party: Decide who will stand by your side on your big day. This includes the best man, maid/matron of honor, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers.

  • Book Key Vendors: Secure your DJ, Photographer, Videographer, and Caterer. (At All Class Entertainment, we offer top-notch DJ, Lighting & Photo Booth services to ensure your reception is unforgettable)

  • Say Yes to the Dress: Begin shopping for your wedding dress and bridal party attire. Remember to schedule fittings and alterations well in advance.

  • Reserve Accommodations: Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests and arrange transportation if needed.

  • Create a Wedding Website: Set up a website to share important details with your guests, such as travel information, accommodations, and the schedule of events.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding: Adding Personal Touches

  • Send Save-the-Dates: Once your guest list is finalized, send out save-the-date cards to ensure your loved ones mark their calendars.

  • Plan the Ceremony: Meet with your officiant to discuss the structure of your ceremony and any special readings or traditions you want to include.

  • Select Floral Arrangements: Work with a florist to choose bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces that complement your theme and color palette.

  • Book a Photo Booth or 360 Booth: Enhance your reception with a classic photo booth or even a 360 Booth for a modern twist, providing guests with a fun and interactive photo/video experience. (We offer both if you’re interested!)

  • Plan the Menu: Schedule a tasting with your caterer and finalize your menu selections, considering any dietary restrictions your guests may have.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding: Focusing on Details

  • Order Invitations: Choose your wedding invitations and any additional stationery, such as programs and thank-you cards.

  • Start Pre-Marital Counseling: If desired, engage in pre-marital counseling or classes to strengthen your relationship and prepare for married life.

  • Plan Your Honeymoon: Decide on a honeymoon destination and book your travel and accommodations. Don’t forget to apply for or renew your passport if you’re leaving the country.

  • Arrange Entertainment: Confirm your entertainment details with All Class Entertainment, ensuring your DJ and MC are aligned with your music preferences and event timeline.

  • Select Wedding Bands: Shop for wedding bands and arrange for any necessary engravings.

1-3 Months Before the Wedding: Final Preparations

  • Send Invitations: Mail your wedding invitations, including RSVP details and any necessary enclosures, such as maps or accommodation information.

  • Schedule Final Fittings: Ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly by scheduling your final fittings for your dress and suits.

  • Create a Day-of Timeline: Work with your planner or coordinator to draft a detailed timeline for your wedding day, including vendor arrivals, ceremony start time, and reception activities.

  • Confirm Guest List: Reach out to guests who haven’t responded to finalize your headcount and update your caterer and venue.

  • Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: Arrange the details for your rehearsal dinner, including venue, menu, and guest list.

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown

  • Confirm Vendor Arrangements: Touch base with all vendors to confirm arrival times, services, and any last-minute details.

  • Pack for Your Honeymoon: Ensure you have everything you need for your post-wedding getaway, including travel documents and essentials.

  • Prepare Wedding Day Essentials: Gather items like your vows, rings, and emergency kit (safety pins, tissues, etc.) for the big day.

  • Relax and Enjoy: Take time to relax and enjoy the final days leading up to your wedding. Consider a spa day or a quiet evening with your partner to unwind.

Wedding Day: Celebrate Your Love

  • Stay Present: Amidst the excitement, remember to savor every moment. Trust in your planning and the support of your vendors to handle the details.

  • Dance the Night Away: Let loose and enjoy the celebration with your loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Our team at All Class Entertainment will ensure your day is filled with joy and celebration, capturing the essence of your love story through music.

  • Make Time For Your Partner: With so much going on, it’s easy to get pulled in multiple directions throughout the night. Don’t forget, the day is meant to celebrate your union. You can greet tables, eat dinner and do group photos together, but don’t be afraid to take a quick break with your new spouse away from the hustle and bustle of the party to soak in the moment. A 5 minute break with just the two of you can do wonders!

Planning a wedding is a journey filled with love, excitement, and a touch of magic. By following this comprehensive wedding planning checklist, you can navigate each step with confidence, ensuring a seamless transition from engagement to “I do.” At All Class Entertainment, we’re here to support you every step of the way, offering expert guidance and exceptional services to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision to life.

Scroll to Top