Congratulations! The ring is on your finger, and now the real fun begins. Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming at first, but having a solid wedding planning checklist makes everything so much easier. Whether you have 12 months or just a few to plan, this wedding planning timeline will guide you through each step.
At Norman's Bridal in downtown Springfield, Missouri, we've watched countless brides navigate this exciting journey. We know that staying organized is the secret to enjoying the process instead of stressing over it.
Ready to start planning? Book your dress fitting appointment at Norman's Bridal today and check one of the most important items off your list!
12 Months Out: Set Your Foundation
Start by setting a realistic budget. Knowing your numbers from day one helps every decision that follows.
Draft your guest list next. This number drives almost everything—from venue size to catering costs.
Pick your date and book your venue. Popular spots fill up fast, especially for weekend weddings.
Consider hiring a wedding planner if you want expert help coordinating everything. Start gathering ideas on Pinterest and create your vision board.
Choose your wedding party now so they have plenty of time to prepare. According to wedding planning experts, this is also the perfect time to research and book top-priority vendors like photographers and caterers.
11-10 Months Out: Book Your Key Vendors
Now's when you lock in the vendors who book up months in advance. Start with your photographer, videographer, DJ, and caterer.
This is the perfect time to visit Norman's Bridal and shop for your wedding dress. Wedding dresses can take months to arrive, plus you'll need additional time for alterations. The average wedding dress costs about $2,000, but your bridal dress budget can vary based on style, designer, and fabric choices.
Schedule your engagement photos. These photos work beautifully on save the dates and give you practice being in front of the camera.
Start browsing wedding invitations to get ideas for your theme and style.
9-8 Months Out: Spread the Word
Time to send the save the date cards! For local weddings, send them 6 to 8 months before your big day. Planning a destination wedding? Send them 9 to 12 months in advance so guests have time to book travel.
Set up your gift registry at a few different stores to give guests options. Share the link on your wedding website.
Choose your florist and start discussing arrangements. Book your hair and makeup artists now before their calendars fill up.
Figure out everything related to your bridal party. Order bridesmaid dresses, plan groomsmen fittings, and pick out gifts for your wedding party.
7-6 Months Out: Handle the Details
Book your rehearsal dinner venue if it's not at your wedding location.
Hire your officiant and discuss ceremony plans. This is also when you should order any rental items like chairs, linens, or specialty lighting.
Continue working with Normans Bridal on any dress alterations. Our consultants can also help you find the perfect jewelry and accessories to complete your bridal look.
5 Months Out: Finalize Travel Plans
Book all transportation for your wedding day, whether that's a limo, party bus, or vintage car for your exit.
Start planning your honeymoon in detail. Compare destinations, check flight prices, and book accommodations.
Mail your wedding invitations! Guests typically need 6-8 weeks to respond, so timing this right is important.
Rent or buy the groom's tux. If you're doing premarital counseling, schedule those sessions now.
4 Months Out: Taste and Try
Schedule your final catering tasting and finalize the menu. This is one of the fun parts!
Choose your wedding cake after sampling different flavors and designs. Shop for your wedding bands since these rings carry so much meaning.
Take your wedding dress to get altered if needed.
3 Months Out: Add Personal Touches
Start writing your vows if you're doing personal ones. Choose any ceremony readings you want included.
Create playlists with your DJ or band. Pick out your first dance song, processional music, and other special moments.
Begin DIY projects like favors, centerpieces, or signage. Starting now prevents last-minute panic.
2 Months Out: Nail Down Final Numbers
Get your marriage license. Requirements vary by state, so don't wait too long.
Buy remaining small items, including gifts for parents and wedding party members. Follow up with any guests who haven't RSVP'd yet.
Start working on your seating chart. It's like solving a puzzle, but you'll figure it out!
1 Month Out: The Home Stretch
Schedule your final pick up at Norman’s Bridal.
Complete your seating chart and order or make place cards. Confirm the day-of timeline with all vendors and share it with your wedding party.
Give your final guest count to the caterer and venue. Pay remaining vendor balances.
Break in your wedding shoes by wearing them around the house. Pack for your honeymoon so it's one less thing to worry about.
1 Week Before: Final Touches
The finish line is in sight! Confirm all vendor arrival times one last time.
Pick up your wedding dress and the groom's suit or tux. Pack an emergency kit with safety pins, stain remover, pain relievers, and tissues.
Treat yourself to final beauty appointments like a manicure or pedicure. Practice your vows out loud and clean your rings until they sparkle.
Clear your schedule and delegate any remaining tasks to trusted friends or family. This week is about relaxing and preparing to enjoy your day.
Key Wedding Planning Tips
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Start dress shopping early: Plan for 9-12 months before your wedding to allow time for delivery and alterations
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Set your budget first: Knowing what you can spend helps prioritize what matters most
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Send save the dates on time: For local weddings, 4-6 months is ideal. Destination weddings need 6-12 months notice
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Build extra time into your timeline: Unexpected delays happen, so padding your schedule prevents stress
Ready to Find Your Dream Dress?
Planning a wedding involves countless decisions, but finding your perfect dress should be exciting, not stressful. At Norman's Bridal, our experienced consultants help you navigate everything from dress selection to accessories.
We carry a beautiful selection of wedding gowns for every style and budget. From classic ballgowns to modern silhouettes, we'll help you find a dress that makes you feel absolutely stunning.
Book your appointment at Norman's Bridal today and take the first step toward your dream wedding look. Visit us at our downtown Springfield store, give us a call at 417-866-9800, or check out our website to browse our collections of wedding and prom dresses.
Remember, this wedding planning checklist is a guide, not a rulebook. Every couple's timeline looks different, and that's perfectly okay. Focus on what matters most to you, stay organized, and don't forget to actually enjoy this special time. Before you know it, you'll be walking down the aisle in the dress of your dreams!
Normans Bridal is located in downtown Springfield, MO, serving brides throughout Southwest Missouri with exceptional service and unforgettable bridal shopping experiences.
