The Timeline.

I hope you've been enjoying the wonderful Portland weather. This is one of the reasons why I love it out here, you get a glimpse of spring in the middle of February!  That certainly doesn't happen back in the midwest. 

Ok, on to business. Today's topic is all about getting down and dirty with planning your wedding day. I remember when I started to plan mine (over 5 years ago already) and opened up a Martha Stewart Wedding mag to find a checklist more than 2 pages long! Holy cow I thought, do I have to do all of this stuff?!

Not necessarily. There a few key tips you should try to stick to. Why you ask? Because many vendors book up quickly, especially for prime dates such as the months of July & August.

Here's a few to consider sticking with the suggested timeline:

9-12 months out.

• choose a few possible dates for the event.
  
• book your ceremony & reception site.
• find your caterer for the reception if one is not included with the space.
• start looking at wedding photographers. 
• start looking at videographers.
• start trying on wedding gowns.
• need help narrowing down your options: get a coordinator!

6-9 months out.

• select a florist.
• decide on your overall look of the event; colors, formal/informal etc.
• decide on music for reception-book Dj or find a band.
• book music for ceremony if needed: such as string quartet.
• start looking for bridesmaids dresses.
• order your wedding gown if getting it from a store...they typically take 6 months to arrive.

4-6 months out.

• book your honeymoon.
• order invitations.
• shop for wedding bands.
• register for gifts...fun!

Ok...that list just kept growing and growing. See what I mean? There is so much to do that it can be overwhelming. I'm exhausted just from writing it! To get more tips and advice on what you should be doing when, check out Barnes and Noble for some of these planners:

 

Peggy Post. Wedding Planner.

Buy local. The Bravo Wedding Planner.

Martha Stewart's Keepsake Planner.