Congratulations, you’re engaged. Now the fun begins. Whether you have twelve months or half that time, this guide breaks planning down into manageable steps so the process feels exciting rather than daunting.
12 months to go
First, celebrate. Host an engagement party, pop some champagne, and take a moment to enjoy being newly engaged. Then set a date. Ceremony venues and registrars get booked quickly so secure yours early. Think about guest numbers and budget at this stage too, especially if families are contributing. Create a mood board that reflects how you want the day to feel before you start contacting suppliers.
11 months to go
Book your key suppliers. This is the time to secure your venue, photographer, band or DJ, and catering team. The venue will often influence your guest list, menu, flowers and overall style, so make sure it feels right for you both.
10 months to go
Write your guest list. Budget and venue size will determine numbers, so put everything on paper and then refine. This is also the stage to talk about the formality and style of your day—black tie in a ballroom or laid-back garden party. Start looking at dresses, giving yourself time to explore different designers and shapes.
9 months to go
Decide on a colour palette or design direction. This will guide everything from stationery to flowers. Create a wedding website and send out save-the-dates if you are having them.
8 months to go
Meet your florist and talk through seasonal options. Draw inspiration from your home, wardrobe and travels so the style feels personal. If you are growing your own flowers, plant hardy annuals that will last the season.
7 months to go
Turn your attention to stationery and invitations. These are the first glimpse of your wedding for guests, so make sure they set the tone. Start honeymoon planning too, whether that means booking through an operator or researching the best times of year for your dream destination.
6 months to go
Arrange your hair trial and put a plan in place if you want to grow or improve condition. Shop for bridesmaids’ outfits and think about flower girl or page boy looks. Keeping the style cohesive but letting your bridal party feel comfortable always works best.
5 months to go
Set up a gift list. Modern registries can include everything from homeware to weekend breaks, charity donations and honeymoon activities. Begin facials or treatments now if you want your skin in peak condition.
4 months to go
Organise the groom’s outfit and groomsmen attire. Whether morning suits or black tie, make sure fittings are booked early enough for adjustments. If you are marrying abroad, ensure paperwork is completed well ahead of time.
3 months to go
Start finalising details: order your cake, buy wedding rings, confirm readings, and prepare speeches. Small details locked in now will make the final weeks less stressful.
2 months to go
Send invitations. Arrange your menu tasting with your caterer and finalise choices based on seasonal produce. Buy thank-you gifts for your bridal party.
1 month to go
Have your final dress fitting. Print your stationery—orders of service, menus, table plans—and map out your seating arrangements. Create a clear schedule for the day and circulate it to key suppliers and the bridal party.
24 hours to go
Eat a good dinner, hydrate, and get an early night. Lay out your outfit, shoes and accessories so the morning feels calm. Hand over the timeline and supplier contacts to your maid of honour or best man so you can switch off.
On the day
Eat breakfast, stay hydrated and give yourself more time than you think for hair and make-up. Keep your phone out of reach. Most importantly, enjoy it. The day will go faster than any other, so savour each moment.
