FREE Printable Wedding To Do List and Checklist Templates

Planning a wedding is easily one of the most exciting and most complicated things that you’re ever likely to do. It can be an extremely busy time and if you’re planning everything yourself, it’s easy to forget something that is of key importance. That’s precisely why it’s so important to create a to-do list ahead of time. That way, it’s a lot easier to stay focused and stay on track.

What is a Wedding To-Do List?

A wedding to-do list is a list of everything that you need to do in order to be prepared for your wedding, broken down into different areas depending on how much time you have before the wedding. This gives you an opportunity to take more time with the things that are more complicated and then address things that need to be addressed in the immediate future as the wedding gets closer.

What Is a Wedding To-Do List Template?

Planning a wedding can be extremely stressful. It’s easy to accidentally let something slip through the cracks. At times, that something can make a huge difference in how the wedding itself actually goes. Using a wedding to do list template can help you remember all of those key points that you might otherwise forget in all the excitement. Consider the example below.


Wedding To Do List Templates & Examples

    The Wedding To-Do List

    As previously mentioned, it’s a good idea to use a template that breaks everything down according to the amount of time that you have prior to the wedding. The following template will give you a better idea of exactly how this works. Of course, you can tailor it to fit your own needs. Please keep in mind, this is only an example. If you need to change or omit something, it’s perfectly fine to do exactly that. The idea is to help you plan better, not add to your stress level.

    12 to 10 Months Before the Wedding

    This is where you will decide all of the major things that take a lot of time to plan. It’s also where you will focus on the things that are of utmost importance, such as selecting your budget. Below is a list of items that should be considered 10 to 12 months before your wedding takes place.

    • Decide on your budget
    • Find an appropriate wedding venue (wedding venue checklist)
    • Decide on colors and theme
    • Agree on whether or not you’ll need to hire a wedding planner
    • Hire your photographer, the band, and your caterer (wedding photography guide)
    • Decide on the theme for your wedding invitations
    • Take engagement photos for your wedding announcement

    9 to 6 Months Before the Wedding

    You may think you have a lot of time, but it will go by quicker than you think. Here are the things you need to address 6 to 9 months prior to your wedding date.

    • Buy your wedding dress (tips for choosing the dress)
    • Decide on bridesmaids dresses and schedule fittings
    • Start deciding on florists
    • Register for gifts
    • Make sure you book your desired venue for the rehearsal dinner
    • Secure all your rented items, such as chairs or a special dance floor
    • If necessary, decide who will officiate at your wedding and make sure they’re available

    5 to 3 Months Before the Wedding

    Here are some additional things that need to be taken care of at this particular juncture.

    • Handle the groom’s tuxedo
    • Book your honeymoon
    • Start looking at transportation for the new couple leaving the wedding and book it
    • Consider Premarital counseling
    • Send out invitations
    • Decide on your cake (tips for choosing the cake)
    • Finalize the menu with your caterer

    2 Months Before the Wedding

    These are some of the more pertinent items that couples sometimes forget to address adequately.

    • Buy wedding bands
    • Decide on vows or readings and select as needed
    • Have a final meeting with your officiant

    1 Month Before the Wedding

    Now, you’re really getting down to it. Here are the things you don’t want to forget a month before you get married.

    • Create a seating chart
    • Decide on your music

    2 Weeks Before the Wedding

    These are the items you’ll want to handle just prior to the wedding. Fortunately, most of the major things you need to take care of will have already been done.

    • Finalize your plans for your hair and make-up
    • Take care of any last-minute issues that pop up

    1 Day Before the Wedding and The Wedding Day

    The most important thing to remember here is to relax and enjoy your day. You’ve been planning this for months. Now you can enjoy your big day. Do your best to be present in the moment and take it all in.

    Honeymoon and Return

    Of course, you don’t want to forget about your honeymoon. All of those plans should have been secured months ago, so go have fun. When you come back, you can start your new life together as a couple by sending out Thank You cards to everyone who attended your wedding or sent gifts.

    FAQs

    Q: How early should I start planning my wedding?

    A: It is recommended to start planning your wedding at least 9-12 months in advance to ensure you have ample time to book vendors, secure a venue, and plan all the details.

    Q: What should be included in my wedding budget?

    A: Your wedding budget should include all the necessary expenses such as the venue, catering, photography, videography, music, flowers, decor, transportation, and wedding attire. It’s important to allocate funds accordingly based on your priorities and what is most important to you.

    Q: How can I find the perfect wedding venue?

    A: You can start by researching venues in your preferred location, considering the capacity and style of the venue, and checking availability. Schedule visits to the top contenders and ask plenty of questions to ensure it’s the perfect fit for your wedding.

    Q: What should I consider when choosing my wedding photographer?

    A: Look for a photographer with a style that matches your vision, a portfolio that showcases their experience, and reviews from past clients. Schedule a consultation to get to know the photographer and ask about their approach, equipment, and pricing.

    Q: What should be included in my wedding day timeline?

    A: Your wedding day timeline should include the ceremony start time, cocktail hour, dinner, speeches, first dance, and other special moments such as cake cutting and bouquet toss. Be sure to leave some buffer time for unexpected delays.

    Q: How can I create a unique wedding ceremony?

    A: Consider incorporating personal touches such as writing your own vows, having a friend or family member officiate, including a unity ceremony, or incorporating cultural traditions. You can also customize the ceremony music and decor to reflect your style.

    Q: What should be included in my wedding website?

    A: Your wedding website should include important details such as the date, time, and location of the wedding, as well as RSVP information, registry links, and accommodations for out-of-town guests. You can also include photos, stories, and other fun details about your love story.

    Q: How can I make my wedding reception memorable?

    A: Consider adding unique touches such as personalized decor, signature cocktails, interactive food stations, or surprise entertainment. You can also create a photo booth or guest book station to capture memories from your guests.

    Q: What should I consider when choosing my wedding attire?

    A: Choose attire that matches the formality and style of your wedding, and that you feel comfortable and confident in. Consider your budget, the season and location of your wedding, and any cultural or religious traditions that may influence your choice of attire.

    Q: How can I ensure my guests have a great time at my wedding?

    A: Provide plenty of food and drinks, a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, and entertainment that matches the style of your wedding. Consider hiring a DJ or live band, providing games or activities, and providing transportation for guests if needed.

    Q: How can I make sure my wedding day runs smoothly?

    A: Consider hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator to manage all the details and ensure everything runs smoothly on the big day. Provide detailed timelines and instructions to all vendors and wedding party members, and designate a point person for any last-minute issues that may arise.

    Q: How can I involve my family and friends in the wedding planning process?

    A: Consider delegating tasks to family and friends who are willing to help, such as DIY decor, organizing the guest list, or coordinating transportation. You can also involve them in the decision-making process by asking for their input on certain aspects of the wedding.

    Q: What should be included in my wedding favors?

    A: Wedding favors should be a small token of appreciation for your guests and can include items such as personalized mementos, edible treats, or charitable donations in lieu of physical gifts. Consider choosing something that reflects your wedding theme or personality as a couple.

    Q: How can I accommodate guests with dietary restrictions?

    A: Consider offering a variety of menu options that accommodate various dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options. Ask guests to indicate any dietary restrictions on their RSVP and communicate this information to the caterer. Be sure to have options available for guests with severe allergies.

    Q: What should I consider when choosing my wedding cake?

    A: Consider the style and theme of your wedding when choosing the design of your wedding cake. You should also consider the flavor and texture of the cake, as well as any dietary restrictions of you or your guests. Schedule a tasting with the bakery to ensure you love the flavor and design of your cake.

    Q: How can I make my wedding eco-friendly?

    A: Consider reducing your carbon footprint by choosing eco-friendly options for your wedding such as recycled paper invitations, using locally sourced and in-season flowers, or choosing a venue that uses renewable energy. You can also choose to donate leftover food or flowers to a local charity.

    Q: What should be included in my wedding vows?

    A: Wedding vows should reflect your love and commitment to your partner, and can include personal stories and anecdotes that showcase your relationship. Be sure to communicate your promises and intentions clearly, and don’t be afraid to incorporate humor or emotion into your vows.

    Q: How can I make my wedding ceremony more inclusive?

    A: Consider including readings or rituals that reflect the diversity of your guests, such as readings from different religious or cultural traditions, or including a moment of silence to honor loved ones who are no longer with us. You can also provide accommodations for guests with disabilities or mobility issues.

    Final Thought

    There you have it. As you can see, planning a wedding can be a very intense endeavor. Of course, it doesn’t have to be this intense, nor does it have to be so detailed. Remember, you can change your template to suit your needs. At least this way, you have something to go on that can serve as a guide.