01 · Section
18–12 Months Before the Wedding
Set a total wedding budget and split it into categories: venue (40–50%), catering (25–30%), photography (10–15%), florals (8–10%), and remaining vendors
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02 · Section
11–8 Months: Vendors & Attire
Visit at least 3 bridal boutiques and place your gown order by month 9; confirm production timeline in writing and ask about rush-order fees if cutting it close
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03 · Section
Save-the-Dates & Invitations Timeline
Mail save-the-dates 8–12 months before the wedding for peak-season or destination events; 6 months is acceptable for local off-season dates
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04 · Section
4–2 Months: Logistics & Legal Paperwork
Research your county clerk's marriage license requirements: ID accepted, blood test required (rare), waiting period after issuance, and expiration window
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05 · Section
Final 30 Days: Vendor Confirmations
Send a finalized day-of timeline to every vendor by 2 weeks before the wedding: photographer, caterer, florist, DJ/band, officiant, hair and makeup, and transportation
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06 · Section
Wedding Week Walkthrough
Drop off ceremony programs, place cards, table numbers, favor bags, and any décor items at the venue during your scheduled drop-off window — not on the morning of
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07 · Section
Post-Wedding Legal & Financial Tasks
Submit your signed marriage license to the county clerk if the officiant did not file it — confirm by requesting a certified copy of your marriage certificate within 4–6 weeks
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