The ultimate wedding checklist for planning your big day in the UK

1 Jul

Planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job – and I don’t mean the fun bits like tasting cake and picking flowers! It’s a whirlwind of decisions, deadlines and let’s be honest, a bit of stress and lots of other people wanting to throw in their ideas about YOUR wedding day.

However, with a solid plan in place, you can tackle each step with confidence and dare I say it, enjoy the process too.

So, to help you out, I’ve put together the ultimate wedding checklist because, let’s face it, you’ve got enough on your plate already without forgetting the small details like the rings.

Here’s your guide to making sure your wedding day is everything you dreamed of and more. The timings may vary depending upon where you live but this is just a guide.

Starting early is better than late and being disappointed because your favourite band is already booked that day or your veil is not ready on the big day!

12 months before your wedding

Set a date
Simple enough, right? But, oh the pressure of choosing a date! You’ve got to think about venues, availability of guests and even whether it’s your favourite season and let’s not even get started on the weather factor! Pick a day that feels right for you and hey, if it’s a weekday, you might get a cheaper deal!
Create a wedding budget
It’s time to get realistic. Set a budget that makes sense for you. Think about your dream wedding and then plan for something 10% more affordable. Trust me, the numbers add up quickly, especially when you realise how much flowers cost.
Start booking your venue
Venues fill up fast, so make sure you book early. Have a shortlist of places you love and be prepared to act quickly. Just remember, this is where you’ll be spending your big day, so don’t rush into it. If you get a gut feeling about a place just go with it.

9 months before your wedding

Pick your bridal party
Choose the people who’ll support you the most, whether it’s your best mate, your sister, or that one cousin who’s been with you through thick and thin. It’s all about surrounding yourself with the right people.
Book your photographer and videographer
These are the people who’ll capture the memories of your day. You want someone who understands your vision and your need for that perfect ‘first kiss’ shot. Start looking early to avoid disappointment.
Book your musicians and/or DJ, photo booth, magician
Depending upon what you have decided, it’s time to book that harpist, pianist, country and western band, DJ etc as they also get booked up early.
Start shopping for your dress (or suit)
This is where the fun begins! Whether you’re going for the full-on princess look or something sleek and modern, make sure you give yourself time to try on a few options. You might fall in love with something totally unexpected or you might end up on the hunt for the one that gives you ‘the feeling.’

6 months before your wedding

Plan your wedding guest list
Ah, the guest list – the necessary evil. It’s time to list everyone you want to invite and the people you don’t (this needs to be done over a bottle of wine!). Once you’ve got your list, send out your save-the-dates. No one wants to hear, ‘Oh, I didn’t know about the wedding!’ when it’s only 3 months away.
Choose your wedding suppliers
Caterers, florists, musicians, makeup artists get snapped up so it’s time to book your team if you haven’t already. You want your day to go smoothly, so don’t leave this to the last minute. Ask for recommendations and check reviews. It’s worth doing your research to get the best team possible. Wedding fayres are a great place to start.
Start planning the honeymoon
You’re going to need a holiday after all this wedding planning. Book your dream getaway early, especially if you’re going somewhere popular. The last thing you want is to spend your honeymoon in a place that was ‘available’ rather than ‘ideal.’

3 months before your wedding

Finalise your wedding vows
Now’s the time to start writing your vows. If you’re nervous about speaking in front of everyone, remember, no one will remember exactly what you said but they’ll definitely remember how you made them feel. So, keep it heartfelt and don’t stress if it’s not perfect.
Order wedding favours and décor
This is where things get fun! Whether you’re going for something quirky or classic, your décor sets the tone for the whole day. Just make sure you don’t get carried away. You don’t need 1,000 candles unless you’re planning on inviting the local fire brigade!
Get your marriage license sorted early
Don’t leave this to the last minute! You need to apply for a marriage license from your local registry office and whilst it is a straightforward process and not expensive, they sometimes are booked up well in advance. Don’t forget to take the required documents (proof of address, ID, etc). The paperwork might not be fun but it is a necessary step!

1 month before your wedding

Confirm all booking and details
Double-check everything with your suppliers and vendors. Confirm times, details and special requests. This is your chance to make sure everyone is on the same page. And yes, it’s also time to make sure your DJ knows that you want ‘Sweet Caroline’ as the last song.
Have your final dress/suit fitting
This is it - the final fitting. Make sure you can move, breathe and dance in your dress or suit. You want to feel comfortable, not like you’re being squeezed into a sausage casing.
Have a wedding rehearsal
Practice makes perfect - even if it’s just the ceremony. Get your bridal party together and rehearse walking down the aisle, exchanging vows and getting everything timed right. It’ll ease any pre-wedding jitters!

The week before your wedding

Get pampered
Treat yourself to a little self-care. Whether it’s a massage, a mani-pedi or just a relaxing bath, make sure you take time to unwind. You’ve earned it!
Pack your wedding day essentials
Make sure everything is packed and ready to go; dress/suit and shirt, shoes, jewellery and any emergency items (like tissues or mints). Also, think about what you plan to wear after the ceremony. And very important - don’t forget your vows!
Relax and enjoy the moment
Take a deep breath and soak it all in. The big day is almost here, so don’t stress. You’ve done all the hard work and now it’s time to enjoy your day.

The biggest takeaway

Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a solid checklist and a bit of humour along the way, you can stay organised and keep things running smoothly.

Remember, at the end of the day, it’s about celebrating love, family and the start of an amazing new chapter. So, take a moment, relax, smile and enjoy every second of your big day.

Your guests will appreciate it and so will you! And if I have forgotten anything, please let me know so that I can amend the blog!

Anna Yates