Saying “yes” to the proposal is exciting. Visions of the perfect wedding begin to swirl in your mind: dream venue, colourful décor, exquisite dress and suit, and heartfelt vows. But between the joy and anticipation, there’s also the reality of bringing that vision to life.
Planning 12 to 18 months before the wedding allows you more time to explore options, create a smooth flow for the months ahead, and have more breathing room when inevitable surprises arise. And having a clear wedding planning to-do list can help turn overwhelming tasks into manageable steps. In this blog, we laid out a practical wedding planning timeline so you can enjoy the process rather than panic at the last minute.
A. Right After the Engagement: Create a Vision Board
The moment the engagement ring is slipped on your or your partner’s finger, a new chapter begins, not just in your life together, but in planning the wedding itself. Once emotions settle down from the big “yes,” it’s time to start envisioning what your perfect wedding looks and feels like. At this early stage, sit down with your partner and talk through:
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Realistic budget. Be honest about what you can and want to spend. Set a total maximum spending limit.
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The size of the wedding. Do you prefer an intimate gathering with only your closest friends and family or a grand celebration with everyone you know? How many people do you estimate to be there on your wedding day?
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Type of ceremony. Will it be religious, civil, symbolic, or a hybrid?
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Create a vision board. Browse Pinterest or wedding blogs to gather inspiration. Then, compile images that capture the aesthetic you’re going for, from the colour palette to the florals, dresses, and venues. It will also help your vendor team understand your vision and bring it to life.
B. 12 Months Before: Establish Your Wedding Priorities
Revisit the conversation you had with your partner after the engagement and start turning your shared vision into a concrete plan. This is when you’ll make the big decisions that set the tone for your wedding. Here’s what should be on your wedding to-do list:
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Create your planning system. Organise everything, from vendor quotes to contracts and payment schedules, in one accessible location. This can be in a shared spreadsheet or a physical binder.
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Set your priorities and non-negotiables. Decide what elements matter most to you. Identify what you and your partner won’t compromise on, and find a middle ground for those elements where your preferences differ. Open communication will save time and potential stress later.
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Finalise your budget. Set a realistic total figure and break it down by category, such as venue, catering, attire, décor, entertainment, photography, and any other additional elements. Be sure to include a contingency fund (around 5-10%) for unexpected expenses.
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Draft your guest list. This will directly affect your budget, venue size, and catering needs. Remember to discuss family expectations early to avoid last-minute surprises.
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Set the date and book your venue. These two decisions go hand in hand. Venues often book up a year or more in advance, especially during peak seasons, typically during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). Secure your spot as soon as you decide on your wedding date.
C. 9 to 12 Months Before: Hire Wedding Vendors and Key Suppliers
Once your vision and venue are more concrete, it’s time to hire the professionals who will bring those dreams to life. The best in-demand professionals often get booked a year or more in advance, so don’t wait too long to secure your favourites.
Who should be on your team:
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Wedding Planner. Oversees vendor selection, timeline creation, budget management, and logistics.
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Wedding Coordinator. If the wedding planner does the groundwork, the wedding coordinator focuses on the execution. They manage the logistics on the wedding day itself.
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Decorator. Handles concept development and venue design. They also collaborate with the florist to ensure the flower arrangements align with the chosen theme.
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Florist. Specialises in designing and executing flower arrangements.
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Photographer and/or Videographer. These professionals will capture the fleeting moments of your wedding.
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Caterer. Crafts the menu and dining experience. Ensure they can cater to your estimated guest count and can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies (if any).
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Entertainment. It can be a band, a DJ, or musicians to set the tone and energy for both your ceremony and reception.
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Officiant. Depending on the type of ceremony, it can be performed by a Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrant, a religious marriage celebrant, a minister of religion, or a state or territory officer.
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Hair and Makeup Artists. Secure professionals who align with your style and schedule trial sessions closer to the big day.
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Attire Designers or Boutiques. If you’re planning themed or customised attire for the entire wedding party, choose your designer as early as now. Custom and designer orders often take several months, including fittings and alterations.
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Wedding Ring Jeweller. Start exploring wedding band designs early so you have time for customisation and resizing. Consider visiting reputable jewellers like Paul Bram, known for their timeless craftsmanship and exquisite diamond wedding bands in Australia.
If you choose not to work with a full-service wedding planner, this is when you’ll take the lead on researching, comparing, and booking your key vendors. Before committing to any vendor, read reviews, ask for referrals, and schedule consultations. Remember to clarify any confusion or questions before signing the deal. No question is too small, and vendors prefer upfront queries over mid-planning clarifications.
D. 6 to 9 Months Before: Shop for Wedding Attire and Rings
Once you’ve assembled your wedding team, now is the time to place orders for your wedding day must-haves. Here’s what should be on your wedding to-do list:
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Order wedding attire. Wedding dresses can take several months to be made and delivered, and you’ll likely need multiple fittings to achieve the perfect fit. The same goes for the groom’s suit and the wedding party’s attire. Starting early ensures everyone looks and feels their best on the big day.
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Create your gift registry. This one’s optional, but setting up a registry can help your guests choose gifts you’ll truly appreciate and use. Include a variety of options at different price points so your guests have a wide range to consider.
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Start designing or ordering invitations and save-the-dates. Work with your designer or stationery vendor to choose styles, fonts, and colours that reflect your theme. If you’re having an out-of-town or holiday-season wedding, send out save-the-dates now to give guests ample time to plan their travel.
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Shop for wedding rings. Wedding bands come in a variety of styles, prices, and materials. Shopping early allows you to explore various designs, compare options, and allow more time for personalisations like engraving. Visiting a trusted jeweller like Paul Bram gives you access to a handcrafted selection of wedding band designs and personalised service. Read our Wedding Ring Guide to help you choose the perfect ring you can wear for decades.
E. 3 to 5 Months Before: Finalise the Logistics
Now, the bulk of your planning moves from “concept” to “execution.” At this point, most items on your wedding checklist should include final confirmations rather than last-minute additions. This is the time to confirm details with vendors and ensure everything is on track.
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Confirm the menu, beverage, and catering details. Meet with your caterer to confirm the final menu selections, portion sizes, and any dietary accommodations for guests.
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Finalise the timeline of the wedding day and reception. Include setup times, ceremony start, speeches, meal service, and key transitions. Share this schedule with vendors, your wedding party, and close family members so everyone is aware of their responsibilities and the schedule.
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Arrange hair and makeup trials. Bring inspiration photos, your veil or hair accessories, and wear a white or light-coloured top to simulate your wedding day look. This is the perfect time to see how your makeup photographs under different lighting and how well your hairstyle holds up over several hours.
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Arrange hotel accommodations for out-of-town guests. Reserve room blocks at one or two nearby hotels that offer a range of price options. Ask about group rates and include booking details on your wedding website or information cards.
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Arrange transportation for guests if the ceremony and reception are in different locations. If your venues are in separate places, consider hiring a shuttle service or coordinating group transportation.
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Have a backup plan for any unexpected events, especially if you’re hosting an outdoor wedding. Weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for contingencies. Discuss alternatives with your venue, such as indoor backup spaces or tents, and make sure your vendors are aware of the plan.
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Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and complete any legal requirements. In Australia, couples must lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form with their authorised celebrant before the wedding. This can be submitted at least one month and no more than 18 months before your wedding date. Make sure all paperwork and legal requirements are completed accurately and on time to avoid delays.
F. 2 to 3 Months Before: Send Out Invitations and Do Final Fittings
The final stages of the wedding planning timeline focus on confirmations and refining the details. By now, most of the big decisions are done, so focus on the meaningful details that will make your wedding day personal and stress-free. This is the stage to add emotional touches and ensure your plans are locked in. Here’s what to do:
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Send out the invitations and confirm RSVPs. Track responses as they arrive and follow up with any guests who haven’t replied by the deadline.
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Write your vows and ceremony readings. Practising your vows aloud will also help you feel confident and composed on the big day.
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Arrange the seating chart. Once RSVPs start coming in, start mapping out where everyone will sit during the reception. Group friends and family who know each other to keep the energy comfortable and lively. Don’t forget to share the final layout with your venue and catering team.
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Schedule final fittings. Bring your wedding shoes and accessories to ensure the perfect fit from head to toe. Make sure your wedding party also completes their fittings, so any last-minute adjustments can be made well before the big day.
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Confirm final details with all vendors and suppliers. Reach out to your entire wedding team to review all details, delivery times, and setup instructions. Provide them with your wedding day timeline, contact list, and any last-minute updates.
G. 1 Month Before: Final Preparations
You’re almost there! This month is all about checking off the last few minor items on your wedding planning checklist and preparing yourself (both physically and mentally). By now, most of the planning is done, so this is the time to focus on self-care, practice, and a little bit of celebration before the wedding.
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Schedule beauty treatments. This includes facials, hair colour touch-ups, manicures, and pedicures. Avoid trying any brand-new treatments at this stage. Stick to what your skin and hair are already used to.
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Prepare speeches or playlists. Write your thank-you speech, vows, or reception toast and rehearse your words. If you’re in charge of music, confirm your playlists with your DJ or band.
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Pick up your wedding rings. If you haven’t yet, collect your wedding bands and double-check that they fit perfectly. Keep them safe in their boxes until the wedding day, preferably stored with a trusted person or in a secure location.
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Schedule a full dress rehearsal. Walk through the processional, recessional, and key moments like readings or ring exchanges with your officiant and wedding party.
H. 1 Week Before: Prepare for a Smooth Wedding Week
You’ve made it to the final countdown! With just one week to go, it’s all about double-checking logistics and giving yourself space to rest before your big day. A well-prepared week means you’ll be able to enjoy every moment on your wedding day without worry.
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Pack your honeymoon luggage. If you’re heading straight to your honeymoon after the wedding, pack your bags early so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Don’t forget to set aside a separate small bag for your wedding night and honeymoon essentials.
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Reconfirm timing with vendors and the bridal party. Send a copy of the final timeline to your wedding party so everyone is aware of their responsibilities and the schedule.
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Prepare a wedding day emergency kit. Include safety pins, double-sided tape, tissues, blotting paper, a mini sewing kit, stain remover wipes, headache or allergy medicine, and touch-up makeup. Give this kit to your maid of honour or a trusted attendant to keep handy throughout the day.
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Don’t forget the rings! Designate someone you trust (often the best man or maid of honour) to be responsible for bringing them to the ceremony.
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Get your beauty rest. Don’t let the excitement get to you too much! Drink plenty of water, maintain a balanced and healthy diet, and aim for a full night's sleep. Taking care of your body and mind this week will ensure you feel radiant, calm, and ready to enjoy every moment when the big day arrives.
The Wedding Day
After months of planning, the big day is finally here! It’s the moment when all the items on your wedding to-do list come together into one unforgettable celebration. Let your wedding coordinator (if you have one) take the lead, but don’t forget these important details to ensure the day runs smoothly:
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Assign a trusted friend or family member to pack up your gifts and belongings after the reception. Provide them with clear instructions and storage containers in advance so that nothing gets misplaced. This allows you to leave the celebration carefree and head straight to your honeymoon suite or after-party.
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Allow buffer time for travel and photos. Allot extra time in your schedule for travel between locations, outfit adjustments, or spontaneous photo opportunities. Timelines can shift, and having a buffer keeps the day relaxed and allows you to fully enjoy each moment without feeling rushed.
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Hydrate, eat, and enjoy. Definitely the most important of all! With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to eat or drink water, but staying nourished will help you stay energised throughout the day. Have a light meal before the ceremony, keep water on hand, and make time to enjoy the food you thoughtfully chose for your reception.
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Take a private moment together during the celebration. Step away from the crowd, breathe, and soak in the joy of finally being married. These quiet moments often become the most cherished memories of the day.
After the Wedding
As the music fades and the last guest waves goodbye, your journey as a married couple officially begins. While the celebration may be over, there are still a few meaningful and practical steps to take to wrap up your wedding beautifully and start this new chapter with ease.
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Send thank-you notes and share your photo gallery with guests. A personal message to guests and vendors expressing gratitude goes a long way.
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Sign your marriage documentation and apply for the official marriage certificate. After your ceremony, your celebrant or officiant will lodge your signed marriage documents with the appropriate registry office in your state or territory. Don’t forget to apply for your official marriage certificate. This is the legal proof of marriage you’ll need for any name changes or administrative updates.
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Begin any name change steps. If you’re choosing to change your name, start by updating your identification and financial records. Create a checklist of what needs updating, from your driver’s licence and passport to your tax and insurance. Having a system in place makes the process smooth and stress-free.
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Leave reviews for your vendors while details are fresh. Your vendors worked hard to bring your dream day to life. Take a few minutes to leave thoughtful reviews and testimonials for your photographer, florist, planner, and others.
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Preserve your wedding memories. Consider printing a photo album, framing your favourite shots, or preserving special items like your bouquet or invitation suite. These keepsakes will become treasured reminders of your day for years to come.
Start Your Forever with Paul Bram
After months of planning and a celebration filled with love, your wedding day marks not just an ending, but a beautiful beginning. Just as your engagement ring marked the start of your love story, let your wedding rings become the symbol of the journey ahead. With beautifully crafted, ethical, bespoke options, Paul Bram brings artistry and meaning to your wedded bond.
Book an appointment with us, and let us help you choose the perfect rings that accompany you from “Yes” to “I do” and beyond.
FAQs
1. What is the 30-5 rule for weddings?
It is a wedding planning timeline strategy that suggests things that normally take five minutes will take 30 minutes on a wedding day. The 30-minute buffers act as a safety net for unexpected delays, such as a vendor being late, a wardrobe issue, or a family member running behind.
2. Do you wear your engagement ring on your wedding day?
Yes. Many move the engagement ring to the right hand for the ceremony, then wear both rings on the left afterward.
3. How early should you send wedding invites?
You can send invitations 6-8 weeks before a local wedding or 10-12 weeks if guests need to travel. Save-the-dates go out 6-12 months in advance
4. How much to put aside for a wedding?
In a 2025 survey, the average cost of an Australian wedding is approximately $36,000, although this varies significantly depending on wedding size, venue, and preferences. Once you have a target figure, create a savings plan, potentially using dedicated savings accounts and automating deposits, to reach your goal within your desired timeframe.
5. What are must-have wedding items?
Must-have wedding items include the wedding rings, essential attire like the wedding dress and shoes, and a wedding day emergency kit for last-minute fixes.
6. Do I need a wedding planner?
Not necessarily. If you have time, organisational skills, and enjoy coordinating details, you might manage well on your own. But a planner or wedding coordinator can reduce stress, catch oversights, and make sure your vision is executed smoothly on the day of the wedding.
7. How do I create a wedding budget?
Start with a total maximum you’re comfortable spending. Identify major categories (venue, food/beverage, attire, photography, décor, entertainment). Allocate percentages or amounts to each, leaving a cushion (say 5–10%) for unexpected costs. Track all expenses continuously against your wedding to-do list or spreadsheet.