COUNT DOWN TO THEBig Day Check List:

• Months before the wedding •

10 - 12 months

(or as soon as you get engaged) o Announce your engagement o Arrange a meeting with both sides of the family o Decide on a wedding date o Discuss your budget with everyone involved in the wedding o If using a wedding planner ask for recommendations and start the interview process o Look for reception sites o Shop for your wedding gown o Book a venue o Hire an Officiant

7 - 9 months o Choose a wedding party o Get your bridal registry started o Order your wedding gown o Select what type of food you are having and choose a catering service o Shop for bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen tuxedos o Hire a photographer and videographer o Choose your florist o Book your DJ or band o Shop for your cake o Shop for wedding rings

5 - 7 months o Order or make your wedding invitations o Hire your limousine driver or other transportation o Hire your hair stylist o Compile a guest list o Start planning your honeymoon destination o Order your rings

2 - 4 months o Send out RSVP invitations o Arrange your rehearsal dinner o Get fitted for tuxedos o Meet with DJ or band to discuss ceremony and reception music o Order bridesmaid gifts and groomsmen gifts o Order your wedding cake o Order your wedding favors and place card holders

Weddings take time to organize. For most of us it’s the most time consuming and complex event we will ever attempt. Here is a comprehensive list of activities and the time lines necessary to have a successful and memorable wedding. The two of you are entering into a lifetime partnership so don’t hesitate to share these responsibilities with your future spouse.

5 - 8 weeks o Decide on your makeup and do a quick check wearing your headpiece o Make any alterations to your wedding dress o Call the clerk’s office to find out the requirements for your marriage-license o Decide on any critical insurance information that might need changing

2 - 4 weeks o Confirm all the details with your DJ, florist, caterer and any other service you’re booking o Decide on the seating arrangements o Give your caterer a final count of your wedding guests o Pack for your honeymoon o Assign simple tasks such as transporting all reception and ceremony items o Write a nice toast

1 day Day Of o Have the planner reconfirm details such as transport arrangements, flowers, music, cake delivery, photography, etc. o Try to get an early night o Take a deep breath you’re almost there! o Before you leave the house, take time to thank your mother and father, bridesmaids and other attendants for all their help and support and give each of them a gift o Relax and have fun! It’s your big day

After the Honeymoon

o Send out your thank-you notes and include a reference to the gift.

o For the caterers, entertainers, florists, etc. that gave good service, write them a thank you letter praising their professionalism o Finally, begin your married life!