You're engaged! 🎉 Congratulations! And now... where do you start?
Don't panic. We've prepared this ultra-complete guide to walk you through it step by step. Whether you have 18 months or 6 months ahead of you, follow along!
🗓️ The Timeline: Your Best Friend
Planning a wedding is a marathon, not a sprint. Here are the major milestones, month by month.
12-18 Months Before: The Foundation
Time for the big decisions!
Must-dos:- Define your budget (see our dedicated guide)
- Choose the date (check availability of your VIP relatives!)
- Book the venue - THIS is what goes fast
- Start the guest list (broad version, we'll refine later)
💡 Tip: Create a shared folder (Google Drive, Notion...) right now. You're going to accumulate A LOT of documents!
9-12 Months Before: The Dream Team
Time to book your key vendors.
Essential bookings:- Caterer - Get at least 3-4 quotes
- Photographer - The good ones book fast!
- DJ or band
- Officiant (if having a secular ceremony)
- Florist
- Prepare marriage license paperwork
- Think about prenup (if needed)
6-9 Months Before: Making It Concrete
Organization:- Finalize the guest list
- Create your wedding website with Ouidolist 🎯
- Send Save the Dates
- Choose your wedding party (if not done yet)
- Order/choose wedding rings
- Wedding dress - first appointments
- Groom's suit
⚠️ Important: A wedding dress can take 4-6 months to be delivered. Don't delay!
3-6 Months Before: The Details
This is where it gets real!
To do:- Send invitations (or activate invites on your website)
- Finalize the menu with the caterer
- Book accommodations for guests
- Organize bachelor/bachelorette parties
- Choose the decor and theme
- First hair/makeup trial
- Add practical info (directions, parking, accommodations)
- Activate the RSVP module
- Create a registry if you want one
1-3 Months Before: The Final Stretch
Confirmations:- Follow up on late RSVPs (there are always some 😅)
- Confirm all vendors in writing
- Finalize the seating chart (good luck!)
- Write your vows (if having a secular ceremony)
- Make the playlist for the DJ
- Final fitting dress/suit
- Prepare wedding party gifts
- Organize the day after (brunch?)
- Think about weather backup plan (if outdoor)
The Final Week: Zen Mode
- Confirm timing with everyone
- Prepare an emergency kit (sewing kit, makeup, snacks...)
- Delegate a point person for the day (someone who handles calls)
- Do a rehearsal if possible
- Rest!!! 😴
💕 Reminder: On the big day, no matter what happens, you'll be married. That's all that matters!
🎯 The 5 Mistakes to Absolutely Avoid
1. Booking the Venue Before Having the Caterer
Some venues require their caterer, others don't. Check BEFORE signing!
2. Underestimating the Number of Guests
"We'll be 80 max" → You'll be 95. Plan for a buffer.
3. Not Having a Weather Backup Plan
Even in July, it can rain. Always have a fallback solution.
4. Doing Everything Yourself
DIY is great, but don't underestimate the time and stress. Delegate!
5. Forgetting to Enjoy
The day goes by VERY fast. Take moments for yourselves, breathe, savor.
🛠️ Essential Tools
To make sure you don't forget anything, here's what we recommend:
| Need | Tool |
|---|
| Wedding site + RSVP | Ouidolist (free!) |
|---|---|
| Budget | Google Sheets or Excel |
| Planning | Trello or Notion |
| Inspiration | |
| Communication | Family WhatsApp group |
💡 Pro Tips
Communicate (A Lot)
With your partner, your families, your vendors. 80% of problems come from lack of communication.
Keep a Written Record
Every agreement with a vendor should be confirmed by email. Avoids "I didn't understand" on the big day.
Accept Imperfection
There will be hiccups. That's normal. No one will remember them but you.
Involve Your Partner
A wedding is planned by two people. Divide tasks according to your strengths.
📱 Create Your Wedding Website
A wedding website has become essential. With Ouidolist, you can:
✅ Create an elegant landing page with your info
✅ Manage RSVPs automatically
✅ Share a photo gallery
✅ Receive messages from your guests
✅ All with a simple Notion-like editor
And the best part? The landing page is free!
Create my site now →In Summary
Planning a wedding is a lot of work, but it's also an incredible adventure to experience as a couple. Take it step by step, don't hesitate to ask for help, and most importantly... enjoy these months of preparation!
We wish you the most beautiful wedding 💕
Questions about planning? We're here to help!