Organizing for your big day

     9 to 12 Months Before

     * Determine who will officiate at the ceremony.

     * Select a wedding date and time.

     * Announce your engagement in the newspaper.

     * Determine how many guests may attend.

     * Determine the type of wedding you want (size, formality, style, color scheme).

     * Select and order the bridesmaids’ dresses.

     * Establish a preliminary budget.

     * Select and secure a photographer.

     * Select a caterer if not already provided by the reception.

     * Select and secure your reception location.

     * Select and secure your ceremony location.

     * Select and secure your DJ/ MC.

     * Begin choosing your wedding cake baker, videographer, and florist. Sign necessary contracts.

     * Pick out engagement ring with fiance.

     6 to 9 Months Before

     * Start compiling the guest list (inform your families to do the same).

     * Select the attendants for your wedding party.

     * Shop for the wedding dress, headpiece, veil, etc.

     * Start planning for honeymoon.

     * Register with a gift bridal registry in your favorite store.

     4 to 6 Months Before

     * Make appointments for a physical exam with your doctor/dentist.

     * Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state (Maine does not require blood tests).

     * Shop for wedding rings.

     * Select and order the invitations and stationery.

     * Decide where to live after the wedding.

     * Complete the guest lists.

     * Begin shopping for trousseau.

     * Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper.

     * Inform mothers to select their dresses.

     * Select and order the men’s attire.

     * Finalize honeymoon details and make the necessary reservations.

     2 to 4 Months Before

     * Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer.

     * Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.

     * Select your wedding rings.

     * Buy a wedding guest book.

     * Set the dates and times with the officiant for the rehearsal.

     * Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties.

     * Determine your resources for designing and printing the program for the ceremony.

     * Finalize the florist details, photographer, videographer, DJ/MC, etc.

     * Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests.

     * Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place.

     * Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.

     6 to 8 Weeks Before

     * Mail invitations and announcements.

     * Prepare a portrait for the newspaper. Check your local newspaper for details and timing.

     * Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait.

     * Select gifts for all your attendants.

     * Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.

     * Hire the limousine or other forms of transportation for the wedding.

     4 to 6 Weeks Before

     * Decide what your menu is going to be for the reception. Estimate the expected number of guests.

     * Buy a gift for the groom.

     * Schedule a final fitting for your gown so it can be ready for your formal bridal portrait.

     * Purchase a going away outfit.

     * Pick up your wedding rings.

     * Purchase (borrow) all wedding accessories such as the ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.

     * Confirm florist details and delivery times.

     * Plan the seating for the reception as well as other details for the ceremony and reception. Start writing placement cards.

     * Make sure all bridesmaids’ attire has been fitted.

     * Buy a gift for the bride.

     2 Weeks Before

     * Set up final consultation with your DJ/MC.

     * Make arrangements to have your wedding gifts moved to your new home.

     * Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc.

     * Prepare the wedding announcement for the newspaper.

     * Reconfirm your guests’ accommodations.

     * Make sure all clothing and accessories for you and the bridal party are ready.

     * Get your marriage license and any blood tests which are needed.

     The Week Before

     * Review any seating details with the ushers.

     * Make sure all wedding attire fits.

     * Finalize the seating arrangements.

     * Reconfirm your honeymoon reservations. Ensure you have any necessary plane tickets.

     * Start packing for your honeymoon.

     * Call any guests who have not responded yet.

     * Finish all the place cards for the reception.

     * Review all the final details with your photographer, videographer, etc.

     * Give a final head count to the caterer.

     * Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day.

     * Wrap and present the wedding party gifts.

     * Finalize your rehearsal dinner arrangements or other plans.

     The Day Before

     * Get a manicure or massage to relax yourself.

     * Stay with your family the night before and go to sleep early.

     * Review and rehearse all the details of your participants.

     The Big Day

     * Rest and relax with a good bath.

     * Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments.

     * Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed.

     * Be sure to eat properly.

     * Make sure the best man and maid of honor sign the wedding certificate.

     * Enjoy your wonderful wedding and cherish each and every moment!!!

     Courtesy The Bridal Association of America