Announce engagement to family and friends

Select wedding date

Select style, colors, or theme of wedding

Consult officiate about pre-marital requirements

Make budget

Reserve Church

Reserve Reception site

Hire Caterer

Nine to Twelve Months Before Wedding

Announce engagement in newspaper

Reserve photographer and videographer

Select musicians or DJ

Start creating guest list

Shop for wedding dress and accessories

Start planning honeymoon and select travel agent

Six to Nine Months Before Wedding

Select and order bridesmaid's dresses

Reserve limousine or other transportation

Reserve florist

Start bridal registries

Begin tuxedo shopping for groom's party

Four to Six Months Before Wedding

Check requirements for marriage within state (i.e. blood test, marriage licenses, etc.)

Select and order rings

Ask both mothers to coordinate and select their dresses

Complete guest list

Order invitations and stationary

Reserve any decor that needs to be rented

Purchase gifts for wedding party and favors for guests

Purchase accessories (toasting goblets, cake knife, guest book, etc.)

Hire calligrapher to address invitations, envelopes, and write place cards

Order wedding cake and groom's cake

Finalize honeymoon details and make any reservations

Apply for passport if needed

Make sure bridal attire has been ordered

Two to Three Months Before Wedding

Send wedding announcement to newspaper

Make accommodations for out-of-town guests and attendants

Reserve tuxedos for groom's party

Confirm reservations and details with photographer, videographer, musicians or DJ, and baker

Make appointment for formal bridal portraits

Choose guest book attendant

Make appointment with hairdresser and makeup artist

Four to Six Weeks Before Wedding

Send invitations six weeks before wedding

Apply for marriage license and get blood test (if necessary)

Schedule final fittings for bridal party

Finalize food and beverage menu with caterer

Purchase going away outfits

Two to Three Weeks Before Wedding

Finalize time schedule of the day with wedding consultant

Arrange name change on any documents

Send change of address notice to post office

Order traveler's checks for honeymoon (if needed)

One to Two Weeks Before Wedding

Provide caterer with final guest count and seating arrangements

Confirm honeymoon reservations; pick up tickets and traveler's checks

Assign tasks for wedding party for wedding day

Pick up wedding attire

Finalize details concerning out-of-town guests