Essential Checklist for Planning Your Dream Wedding

Planning a wedding is both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. There are several moving parts and a budget to consider, which can cause you to feel flustered. While choosing one of our After The Tone audio guestbook vintage phones is a perfect way to capture the memories of your big day, there are several details to consider well before saying “I do.” No stress! To help you enjoy the ride, we’ve put together a wedding checklist to ensure a smooth, organized, and memorable experience before, during, and after your nuptials. 

12-18 Months Before Your Wedding

Start your wedding planning checklist as far in advance as possible! Starting 12-18 months ahead can help you establish your budget and secure the vendors of your choice. Keep in mind that you may need additional time to coordinate if you plan on having a destination wedding. Here’s what should be on our to-do list in the beginning planning stages. 

• Set a Budget: Determine how much you can spend and prioritize spending categories.
• Draft a Guest List: Create a preliminary list of guests to estimate the size and cost of your wedding.
• Choose a Wedding Date: Pick a few potential dates and be flexible in case your dream venue is already booked
• Select a Wedding Theme/Style: Decide on the overall look and feel of your wedding, including a signature color scheme.
• Book a Venue: Reserve your ceremony and reception locations.
• Research Vendors: Look into photographers, videographers, florists, and caterers.
• Hire a Wedding Planner: If you’re feeling overwhelmed and your budget allows, find a planner who aligns with your vision.

9-12 Months Before Your Wedding

The 9-12 months in your wedding planning timeline are critical for solidifying plans and ensuring that everything is on track. You may think you still have enough time, but trust us — at this point, it’s going to go fast, so stay organized!

• Send Save-the-Dates: Inform guests of your wedding date and location.
• Purchase Wedding Attire: Shop for your wedding dress, groom’s attire, and outfits for the bridal party.
• Hire Key Vendors: The research time is over! If you haven’t already, it’s time to commit and book your key vendors. 
• Plan the Ceremony: Decide on officiants and any special rituals or traditions to help honor and blend your families. 
• Create a Wedding Website: Share information and updates with your guests.

6-9 Months Before Your Wedding

The 6-9 months leading up to your wedding are a critical period in the planning process, so it’s time to finalize key details. 

• Order and Send Invitations: Choose and order wedding invitations, programs, and other stationery. You can also go the digital route with platforms like Bliss & Bone or Paperless Post 
• Finalize the Guest List: Update your list based on RSVPs and any changes.
• Book Transportation: Arrange for transportation for you, your partner, and your guests if necessary.
• Plan the Menu: Work with your caterer to finalize food and drink selections — plan a tasting to ensure your menu meets your expectations and satisfies any dietary requirements if needed. 
• Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials: Test out styles and finalize your look so you won’t be disappointed or surprised on your big day. 

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3-6 Months Before Your Wedding

• Purchase Wedding Bands: Choosing your wedding bands can be as exciting as the big day itself! Go for metals and styles that feel true to you—whether it’s timeless gold, sleek platinum, or something with a little sparkle.
• Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: Organize the dinner location and menu, then send invites to your chosen attendees.
• Finalize Details with Vendors: Confirm timelines, contracts, and any special requests before your big day.
• Create a Seating Chart: Arrange where guests will sit during the reception.

1-3 Months Before Your Wedding

Now is the time to button up all of those crucial wedding arrangements and crucial details! 

• Get a Marriage License: Check local requirements and obtain your marriage license.
• Confirm Details with Vendors: Double-check all arrangements and schedules.
• Have a Final Fitting: Ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly.
• Prepare a Wedding Day Timeline: Create a schedule for the wedding day.
• Write Vows: If you’re writing your own vows, it’s time to put pen to paper and finalize them!

1-4 Weeks Before Your Wedding  

• Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with guests who haven’t responded.
• Create a Wedding Day Emergency Kit: Include items like a needle and thread, pain relievers, and snacks.
• Prepare Payments and Tips: Organize cash or checks for vendor payments and tips.
• Finalize Details with Your Venue: Confirm setup, décor, and other specifics.
• Pack for Your Honeymoon: If you plan on leaving within a day or two of your wedding, pack in advance so you’re not frazzled. 
• Relax and Pamper Yourself: Schedule some downtime to de-stress and enjoy the moment! 

Preserve Your Memories With After The Tone Audio Guestbook

You’ve done the heavy lifting and checked all the boxes on your wedding to-do list, so allow us to help on our end by making it easy to create memories that last a lifetime with one of our vintage After The Tone audio guestbook phones — the ultimate wedding guestbook alternative! Learn how influencers and guests alike have utilized our unique audio guestbook.  Book Now

While we feel we top the list in terms of wedding guestbook ideas, allow us to share our 40,000-plus orders and over 2,300 stellar client reviews with you so you can make a firm decision for yourself! We’re confident you’ll want to book your After the Tone audio guestbook for your big day!

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