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Wedding timeline
Courtesy of Tie The Knot

Six to twelve months

Contract wedding consultant

Determine budget

Create guest list

Choose ceremony and reception sites

Reserve rehearsal dinner site

Choose officiant

Select wedding gown and accessories

Select formalwear

Select attendants' attire

Order wedding rings

Contract caterer

Contract photographer and videographer

Contract florist

Contract musicians

Have engagement portrait taken

Four to six months

Order invitations

Choose wedding cake

Arrange for accommodations if needed

Register for wedding gifts

Make arrangements for rehearsal dinner

Arrange for event insurance if required by location

Make plans for wedding transportation

Plan honeymoon

Two to four months

Have mothers of the bride and groom select their attire

Address wedding invitations

Plan ceremony

Get marriage license (no more than 90 days prior to wedding)

Make décor and menu choices

Make hair and makeup appointments

Plan rehearsal dinner

Purchase attendants' gifts

Plan attendants' luncheon

One to two months

Make musical selections

Order documents for name change

Send invitations (6 weeks in advance)

Have final gown fittings

Pick up wedding rings

Order favors (optional)

Record gifts received and start thank-you notes

Two weeks

Contact those who have not RSVP'd

Draw up seating plan for reception

Have seating cards printed

Finalize plans with wedding coordinator

Confirm plans with vendors

Confirm accommodations

Confirm all reservations

Wedding week

Make last-minute changes with wedding coordinator

Have a massage and manicure

Enjoy family and guests as they arrive

Have rehearsal