The whole “first comes love, then comes marriage” statement is missing quite a few steps if you’re wanting to host a wedding to celebrate that marriage! Choosing your venue and selecting vendors doesn’t happen all in a day! (The average couple hires 15 wedding vendors!) There is no exact timing to planning a wedding. However, we have guidelines here based on the average engagement length of 15 months to help decide when to book wedding vendors!
When to Book Wedding Photographer & Videographer
What’s a once-in-a-lifetime event without being able to look back on it and share it for future generations?! While some couples forgo a traditional wedding cake or wear something blue, we don’t suggest skipping out on hiring stellar cinematographers for your big day. You definitely don’t want to leave this to-do unchecked for too long, as many other couples are reserving photographers and videographers early on as well. For that reason, you want to make sure you book your photographer and videographer at least a year in advance.
When to Book Wedding DJ
Since every reception needs one, don’t sleep on reserving this key ingredient to getting the party started! Book your wedding DJ at least nine to ten months out from your wedding day. Same as photographers and videographers, DJs are also one of the most highly sought-after wedding services. They bring your party to life! DJs don’t just play music, but will also be the host of your night to take the stress away from you.
When to Schedule Engagement Photo Shoot
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but booking your engagement photoshoot as soon as you’re engaged is a great idea! Well, maybe not right away. Enjoy at least a week or two of being in that newly engaged feeling before you begin wedding planning. The engagement photo shoot is one you want to do in the early stages of planning because you want to capture those raw emotions at their peak! Bonus, your engagement photo shoot can be a great way to get to know a possible wedding photographer.
When to Buy Your Wedding Dress
The dress. This is one of the topmost important parts of the wedding day that you’ll absolutely need. No matter what type of dress style you’re going for, you’ll want to buy a wedding dress ahead of time. If you have the privilege of being engaged more than a year from your wedding date, start researching what kind of style you’d like. Then go ahead and book appointments for the first fittings. Once you’ve decided, you want to actually buy the dress at least a year ahead of your wedding.
When to Reserve a Hotel Block
When touring and booking your wedding vendor, it’s good to first ask the venue manager for their suggestion on nearby hotel options (if your venue isn’t already a hotel). You’ll want to then reserve your hotel block right after reserving your wedding venue or at least a year before the big day.
This twelve-month guideline is especially true if your venue is in a popular location or part of town that draws in tourists. If you have more flexibility and availability with nearby lodging, you’ll still want the hotel block booked at least seven months ahead of time to be able to share the information with your save the dates and wedding website.
Choosing Your Wedding Florist
Begin your search for a wedding florist about 6-8 months before the big day. This advance planning is vital for selecting flowers that not only match your wedding theme but are also available during your wedding season.
Arranging Hair and Makeup Services
Book your hair and makeup professionals at least six months in advance. This gives you ample time for trials to find the perfect bridal look and ensures that everyone in your bridal party can be accommodated on the day.
Selecting Wedding Attire
Start looking for your wedding dress around 9-12 months prior to the wedding, allowing time for fittings and alterations. Grooms should plan to choose their suits or tuxedos about 6 months in advance, which is ideal for tailoring and coordinating with groomsmen.
Booking Your Wedding Transportation
Organize your wedding transportation about 5-6 months in advance, especially if you’re planning to get married during a peak season or require special vehicles like a vintage car or a luxury limo.
Finalizing Your Wedding Day Plan
Three to four months before your wedding, it’s time to finalize your event schedule. This includes all the timings for your ceremony, reception, and any other planned activities. Share this itinerary with your vendors to ensure everyone is synchronized.
By adhering to these timelines, you’ll be able to smoothly orchestrate your wedding preparations. Each step is crucial in bringing your dream wedding to life. Savor the excitement of this planning phase, as it leads up to your unforgettable day of celebration.
Complete Weddings + Events Quad Cities
Complete Weddings + Events offers multiple services to make it easy to reserve your wedding date for the vendors you still need! Contact Complete for availability on needs for your wedding day!