DEVENT planning resources
Wedding Planning Checklist: 12, 6 or 3 Months
Start with decisions that unlock other decisions: the date, rough guest range, spending limit and the type of celebration. This checklist can be shortened without assuming that every supplier is available.
Start with a range, not a perfect number
List the people who must be involved in the initial decisions and agree who has the final say. Sketch a guest range, a spending ceiling and your preferred ceremony and reception arrangements. The range helps venues quote; you can refine the list before invitations are sent.
If you have around twelve months
Check potential dates and compare venues against the guest range. Ask an authorised celebrant about your circumstances and the required paperwork. Once the key bookings are confirmed, approach the suppliers whose work is most important to you and keep each quote and payment date together.
If you have around six months
Focus first on the venue, ceremony arrangements and suppliers that need the same date. Shortlist realistic alternatives if a preferred provider is unavailable. Start the guest list and invitation wording while confirming food, music and photography; avoid paying overlapping suppliers for the same service.
If you have around three months
Ask venues and suppliers for actual availability before sending a date to guests. Give the celebrant your timing immediately and seek advice about notice and documentation; do not assume an exception applies. Choose a simpler scope if needed, and send invitations only when the important details are confirmed.
The final month and event week
Follow up replies before the venue and caterer require final numbers. Confirm the seating plan, accessibility arrangements, supplier arrival windows, balance payments and weather backup. Share a dated run sheet and a lead contact with everyone delivering part of the day.
Worked example · illustrative details
A shorter planning window
A couple has twelve weeks and wants a small reception. They first check a celebrant and venue for the same date, then ask a caterer and photographer about availability. Their invitation goes out after those essentials are confirmed; decorative extras can follow.
Your next steps
- Agree the guest range, budget and decision-makers.
- Confirm the date, ceremony arrangements and venue.
- Book essential suppliers and give guests clear information.
- Review replies, handovers and the final run sheet.
Common questions
Can a wedding be planned in three months?
It may be possible if the necessary legal arrangements, venue and suppliers can be confirmed. Speak with an authorised celebrant promptly about your individual circumstances.
When should the guest list be final?
Use an estimated range for early quotes. Set a reply deadline that allows follow-up before the venue and caterer need their final numbers.
Useful next steps
Sources and further reading
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