Are you wondering how to plan a wedding? To make planning your wedding a breeze, we have put together the ultimate wedding planning stages.

Wedding Planning Stages

The stages of the wedding planning checklist are broken down to make sure nothing is missed.

12-18 Months to Go

With 18 months to go before you want to get married, there are many things you need to tick off on your wedding planning list. Most couples start planning with a year and a half to go.

1. If you want to book the venues and suppliers of your choice at the best prices, start your wedding planning more than a year ahead. It is possible to save money by booking a mid-week wedding.
2. Where are you getting married? Are you getting married in your hometown or abroad? If you’re marrying in the UK, it’s easier to plan your wedding yourself, but if you’re getting married outside of the country, you might need a professional.
3. Do you want to plan your wedding, or do you need the help of a professional wedding planner? You can design the wedding on your own, but it’s better to call on the expertise of a wedding planning or styling company.
4. For a more exciting wedding inspiration you need under one roof, book tickets to a Wedding Show, and it’s a fun day out to celebrate your engagement with your nearest and dearest.
5. Save-the-date cards can be sent to make sure your guests don’t miss out on your special day.
6. Make your budget realistic, so you don’t end up going into debt while wedding planning. You can save money by drawing up your guest list and keeping both families happy. If you don’t know the friends of the family well enough to invite them to the wedding breakfast, then have a separate evening reception guest list.
7. Everything else will be more accessible if you book your venue sooner. You have to choose a venue for your ceremony and reception. You may also include a place for your wedding breakfast and party. Consider seating capacity, room hire costs, and indoor and outdoor settings for pictures. You can save thousands on expenses by booking out of season.
8. You can let your friends be part of your special day by appointing bridesmaids, best men, and ushers. 
9. The minister/registrar will be able to answer all your questions about the ceremony.
10. Hire a live band or get classical musicians for your reception, or book a DJ to dance the night away if you so choose. If the reception venue you have booked is not preparing your food, you’ll need to consider hiring an outside caterer. If you want something more traditional or unusual at your wedding, decide.
11. Are you booking your transport for weddings? You need to make a booking now. Maybe you need to arrange transportation for your guests too.
12. Determine how many flowers you would like and where to get them. If you are getting married in Glasgow, check out flowers for weddings Glasgow. If you want a different look at your wedding, consider embracing the trend for dried flowers. 
13. You need to book your honeymoon in the correct name if you want to change it, and wedding insurance can save you thousands if a supplier suddenly lets you in. It’s worth it for the peace of mind that comes from planning a wedding.
14. If you have a custom wedding dress made for you, you need to start this process now. You should allow yourself at least six to eight months for your wedding dress to arrive and be altered if you buy it from a bridalwear shop. You need less time for alterations if you want to buy a vintage wedding dress or shop for a pre-loved one but still be careful when shopping.
15. If you decide to use your wedding as a chance to improve your health, start your well-being regime. If you want to make sure you’re feeling your best on your wedding day, you could start practicing yoga and eating a healthy diet.

One Month to Go

1. Bring along your mother, sister, or best friend to the fitting for your perfect wedding dress.
2. Speak to your suppliers directly and confirm you have confirmation of dates, places, and times in writing.
3. If you’re having a church wedding, arrange the wedding rehearsal more often than not. They can give you an overview of what will happen. If you wanted, you could celebrate the American tradition with a celebratory dinner with a bridal party.
4. You need to contact any guests who haven’t replied to your invitation to ensure you have the final numbers.
5. If you want the best man to do this for you, arrange a date to pick up clothing and make a note of when it needs to be returned.
6. If you’re going to give a bride’s speech or a groom’s speech, make sure it’s written and prepared in time. It also takes time to write your vows.
7. Treat yourself to a facial to make sure your skin is glowing and have a patch test if you have sensitive skin.

One Day to Go

It’s a good idea to take the day off work, so you don’t have any extra stress, and read up on what to do the night before your wedding.

It does not have to be. If wedding planning feels a bit much, read our guide to remaining calm. Don’t worry about it taking over your life; follow the plan on the list, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. What is important is that you get married.