Planning
Wedding planning timeline & guides
Not the same as your wedding day timeline — planning covers what to book and when, from engagement through the big day. Use the checklist to track tasks, read a focused guide below, then switch to the day-of editor about 6 weeks out.
Main toolWedding planning checklist & timeline — 12 months
Track tasks by phase, set your wedding date for calendar ranges, check off progress with a progress bar, and print — all in your browser. No signup.
Open checklist →Planning guides
Deep dives on how to choose a venue, when to send save-the-dates and invitations, dress shopping, destination weddings, bridal showers, and RSVPs.
- Just engaged — what now?Read →
You don't need a wedding planner on day one. You do need a clear order so you don't book things backwards or panic about dates.
- How to choose a wedding venueRead →
Your venue sets the date, capacity, catering rules, and photo backdrop. Most couples tour venues within the first month of engagement — here's a practical order that avoids booking the wrong space.
- Destination wedding planning timelineRead →
Destination weddings need longer lead times for guest travel, room blocks, and vendor coordination. This timeline assumes a Friday–Sunday celebration — adjust for your location and local requirements.
- When to send save-the-dates and wedding invitationsRead →
Save-the-dates give guests travel lead time; invitations confirm details and collect RSVPs. Mail save-the-dates 6–12 months before (earlier for destination weddings). Mail invitations 6–8 weeks out with RSVP due 3–4 weeks before the wedding.
- How to choose a wedding dress — shopping timelineRead →
Choosing a dress is part timing, part clarity on style and budget. Start browsing 9–12 months out; custom gowns need 8–10 months to order. Off-the-rack still needs 2–3 months for alterations.
- Wedding RSVP timelineRead →
Late RSVPs stress couples and caterers. Set a firm deadline and build reminder touchpoints.
- Bridal shower timelineRead →
Bridal showers usually happen 2–4 months before the wedding — after the engagement buzz, before final wedding crunch. The host (often MOH or family) drives timing; the couple sets guest list boundaries.
Sample wedding planning timelines
Real-style booking order examples — compare month-by-month against your checklist.
Final 2 weeks or 48 hours out?
Sprint checklist for the home stretch — final 2 weeks & 48 hours guide . Then build your hour-by-hour schedule with a welcome hour template or open the editor.
Open day-of editor →