Below is a checklist of everything that needs to be thought of, planned for and done before the wedding day dawns. We do not believe in the 12-months-to-go-you-must-have-done-this kind of list, as every wedding is a unique event that needs to be planned with the families of those taking part in mind. Some weddings can be organised from start to finish and take place all in a 4-week time frame, others will take a year - the message being that you need to choose what suits your situation. Just remember, though, that if you want to get married on a Saturday in the summer months, you will need to book your venue and photographer at least a year in advance.
First things first...

1. Select a date (preferred wedding date and back-up date).
2. Set budget and priorities, ie style of wedding, time of day, attendants etc.
3. Draw up a guest list with both sets of parents.
4. List venue criteria.
5. Set ceremony criteria.
6. Buy engagement rings

Next...

1. Select possible venues - choose one and book. If possible, arrange to view the venue when it is set up for a wedding.
2. Choose and book ceremony venue
3. If using a hall, book a caterer.
4. Set criteria for:
   Photographer
   Videographer
   Music
   Stationery.
5. Select possible photographers and book one.
6. Select possible videographers and book one.
7. In case of a hall - confirm with caterer as to who will be responsible for the hire of tables, chairs, crockery, cutlery, kitchen equipment, toilets, marquee, dance floor.
8. Select possible musicians and book (ceremony, pre-function drinks and function).
9. Choose wedding dress style - find dress designer/maker.
10. Select florist/decor artist.
11. Book make-up artist and hairdresser for trial run and the wedding day.
12. Arrange transport.
13. Select wedding gifts from a gift registry company.
14. Choose cake baker/decorator of the wedding cake.
15. Wedding stationery - select, print and send (if possible, 6 to 8 weeks in advance).
16. Buy dress accessories, ie shoes, underwear, headgear, jewellery etc.
17. Choose table gifts/favours (if required) for the wedding guests.

Last weeks before the wedding...

1. Follow up on invitation replies that have not been received.
2. Notify venue/caterer of the final number.
3. Final dress fitting - try on dress, shoes, underwear, veil etc to see that everything co-ordinates as it should.
4. Pack for honeymoon.
5. Assign responsibilities between family members
6. Draw up and sign ante-nuptial contract with attorneys.
7. Have a manicure, pedicure, final trial for hair and make-up, if needed.
8. Buy thank-you gifts for attendants (if required)

Meetings with service providers
It is a good idea to ask as many questions as possible when you meet with the various service providers - this is the time to establish exactly what you can expect from them and make your own wishes clear. Where applicable, obtain as much as possible in writing, to avoid misunderstandings later.

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