The secret of a successful and happy wedding lies in the planning, so follow our handy timetable and get hitched without any hitches.

When you set the date

  • Agree a budget for the wedding and honeymoon and
    agree who will pay for what
  • Decide between a traditional formal wedding or a
    more intimate affair
  • Choose a church wedding or civil ceremony
  • Visit potential venues for wedding and reception and
    book as soon as possible, including overnight accommodation
    if needed
  • Visit a wedding fair if possible, or start a scrapbook of
    ideas
  • Invite your chosen bridesmaids and best man to do the
    honours
  • Book the photographer, video company and florist
  • Think about taking out insurance against the worst
    case scenario

Six months to go

  • Choose dresses for the bride and attendants
  • Order wedding cake
  • Book the wedding cars
  • Order wedding stationery
  • Compile guest list
  • Put together a gift list, and register with a store if using
    a gift registry service
  • Book the honeymoon and make sure passports will be
    valid. Check whether vaccinations are needed for your
    chosen destination

Three months before

  • Confirm arrangements with the minister, if marrying
    in church and select music and form of service
  • Discuss both mothers’ outfits to avoid clashing colours
  • Send out invitations with notification of where
    your list is held, maps on how to find the venue
    and suggestions for overnight accommodation
    for guests coming from afar
  • Visit hairdresser and beautician for initial consultations
  • Buy wedding lingerie and shoes, plus accessories
    for the day and going-away outfit if needed

One month left

  • Visit hairdresser with veil and/or headdress to finalise
    style
  • Book final appointments with hairdresser and beautician
  • Have final dress fittings
  • Buy thank-you gifts for the bridesmaids
  • Make a seating plan for the reception and prepare
    place cards
  • Finalise numbers with caterers as soon as possible, and
    advise of any special dietary requirements
  • Plan your honeymoon wardrobe
  • Inform the tax office, doctor, employer, credit card
    companies and bank if you are taking your husband’s
    name

One week left

  • Hold a wedding rehearsal with all key people present
  • Make final checks on flowers, catering, photography
    and cars
  • Arrange delivery of cake to the reception venue
  • Take delivery of brides and bridesmaids dresses
  • Wear your wedding shoes round the house to break
    them in gently
  • Have stag and hen parties

The day before

  • Pack honeymoon suitcases and take them to the reception
  • Locate the rings and give them to the best man for safe
    keeping
  • Don’t panic and have an early night – it’s a big day
    tomorrow…