The Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Saying 'I Do'
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming but breaking it down into manageable steps will make the process smoother and more enjoyable for you as a couple. Whether you have 18 months or just a few weeks, this guide will help you stay on track. And if you’re still searching for your dream dress, our Muswell Hill bridal studio offers stunning new and ex-sample designer wedding dresses, ready to take away on the day so no need to wait several months for your bridal gown to arrive! Book your appointment online with us today.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding
• Set a budget and discuss priorities
• Book your venue – this will determine your wedding date!
• Create a guest list
• Hire a wedding planner (if needed, be sure to factor this in your budget)
• Choose if you would both like a theme and/or specific colour scheme
• Start researching wedding dress styles – or visit our bridal studio in North London to explore designer bridal gowns available immediately with up to 60% off RRPs!
Photo by Natasha Fernandez
9-12 Months Before the Wedding
• Book key suppliers: photographer, caterer, florist, entertainment for the ceremony and/or reception
• Shop for your wedding dress – generally traditional bridal boutiques require you to order your gown at least 8-10 months before your wedding, so it’s ideal to start looking from 10-12 months before your wedding. However, if you want to avoid long lead times and have less time to wedding plan, our off-the-peg designer wedding dresses are perfect! They are ready to take home the same day of your appointment, and fittings can be arranged with us
• Send out save-the-dates
• Book hair and makeup artists
Photo by Los Muertos Crew
6-9 Months Before the Wedding
• Plan your honeymoon
• Order bridesmaids’ dresses
• Organise hire items (tables, chairs, décor, etc.)
• Schedule wedding dress alterations – our in-house bridal alterations service ensures a perfect fit without the hassle!
• Book transport for the big day
Photo by Elina Volkova
3-6 Months Before the Wedding
• Finalise the wedding breakfast menu and wedding cake
• Choose and order wedding rings
• Arrange your first dress fitting – at our bridal studio, we ensure every bride leaves feeling amazing in her wedding dress. We book your first fitting in for 6-8 weeks before your wedding day
• Plan your hen/stag dos (or leave this to your bridal party!)
• Confirm the ceremony details
Photo by Leeloo The First
1-3 Months Before the Wedding
• Send invitations
• Have your first and second wedding dress fitting
• Break in wedding shoes (we advise all brides to do this to make sure they’re feeling completely comfortable on the day)
• Create a seating plan
• Confirm timelines with suppliers
2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding
• Collect the marriage licence
• Have a final check and collect your wedding dress
• Prepare a wedding emergency kit
• Pack for your honeymoon
Betty Gets Hitched bride at her final fitting
The Final Week
• Get your nails done, unwind with a facial or massage if you have the time, and enjoy the excitement!
• Rehearse the ceremony
• Have fun and soak in the joy of your wedding day!
#bghbride Stef and husband Josh on their wedding day. Photo by Lydia Joiner Photography
Planning a wedding is a journey, but finding the perfect dress doesn’t have to be stressful. At our Muswell Hill bridal studio, we offer a stunning selection of designer wedding dresses, ready for immediate purchase, along with expert in-house alterations. Whether you’re months ahead or in a last-minute rush, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment today and find the dress of your dreams!