Big day countdown Start here

We’ve got all of your wedding to-dos – and when to do them.

12 months before

Compile your guest list. Set the wedding budget. Figure out who’s going to be paying for what. Hire a wedding planner if you’ll be using one. Book the ceremony and reception venues.

10 months before

Choose your officiant. Go dress shopping. This is a great way to see what works for your body shape and style. Meet potential vendors, like florists and caterers. Select your bridal party. If you’re going for custom invitations, hire a stationer or graphic designer.

8 months before

Hire the caterer, florist, band/ DJ, ceremony musicians and photographer. TIP! Visit bridal expos to find all of the suppliers under one roof. If you’re making a dress, visit a dressmaker (or two), and get ideas and quotes. Then book your favourite. Start a wedding website now. Send out save-the-dates (especially if you’re having a destination wedding). Add accommodation options for out-of-town guests.

6 months before

Plan your bridesmaids’ dresses. Go shopping together or buy fabric. Book your honeymoon. Shop for wedding bands. Order invitations. Meet with your vendors to discuss details. Choose the getaway car.

4 months before

Order your cake. Set up a wedding registry. Plan the rehearsal dinner. Choose the groom’s and groomsmen’s attire. Mail your invitations.

2 months before

Buy your wedding dress if it’s off the rack. Write vows if you plan to personalise them. Finalise the ceremony with your officiant.

6 Weeks before

Print the programmes, menus, etc. Finalise the party favours.

2 Weeks before

Have your final dress fitting. Submit a shot list to the photographer. Send playlists to the DJ. Review RSVPS and contact any outstanding stragglers.

1 Week before

Provide a final headcount to the site and caterer. Finalise the seating chart. Give your last-minute requests to the vendors.

48 hours before

Pick up your dress. Write cheques due the day of. Put vendor tips in envelopes, and ask the maid of honour or best man to distribute them.

Don’t leave booking your service providers to the last minute, as good The stress of balancing life, work and wedding planning can turn any brideto-be into a monster. If you feel bridezilla coming on, take a break with your groom, get perspective and drink champagne. And if that doesn’t work, hire a wedding planner to deal with the parts that you’re not coping with. It’s what they’re there for!