You’re engaged. The champagne’s been popped, the photos have been posted, and the congratulations keep pouring in. Then reality hits: the wedding won’t plan itself. Where do you begin?

A wedding is one of the most meaningful and complex events you’ll ever organize. Venues, vendors, guest lists, décor, food, music, the decisions pile up quickly. The good news? It doesn’t have to feel overwhelming if you break it down into clear, manageable steps.

This guide walks you through the process month by month, giving you a roadmap for everything that needs to happen in the 12 months leading up to your big day.

12+ Months Before: Setting the Foundation

Work out your budget: The old rule that the bride’s family pays for everything rarely applies anymore. Today, costs are usually split between both families and the couple. Start with an honest conversation: who’s contributing, and how much? This number will shape nearly every other decision — from venue size to guest list to vendor choices.

Draft your guest list: Your budget determines your headcount. Begin with everyone who matters most, then pare down until the list matches what you can realistically afford. It’s not easy, but clarity now prevents headaches later.

Choose your wedding party: Once you know the size and scale of your celebration, decide who will stand beside you. Maid of honor, bridesmaids, groomsmen, family, flower girl, ring bearer, these are the people who’ll share the spotlight with you.

Consider a wedding planner: Not every couple needs one, but if your budget allows, a planner can take the weight of logistics off your shoulders. Think of them as your insurance against unnecessary stress.

Pick your theme: Rustic countryside or a classic ballroom? Align on a vision that feels true to both of you. This theme will guide your décor, attire, and even the flow of your ceremony and reception.

Book your venue: Venues fill up quickly, especially in-demand ones. Once you’ve locked in your theme, start touring. When you find a space that matches your vision and your budget, don’t wait. Reserve it.

And if you’re looking for a space that already feels like a wedding, Maxwell is it. The rooms are layered, romantic, and full of details, you won’t spend weeks figuring out decor because the atmosphere is already built in. One walk through the Grand Room or the Garden Room, and you’ll see why couples keep choosing it as the backdrop for their vows.

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10–11 Months Before: Building Your Team

Hire your vendors: With budget, guest list, and venue set, it’s time to lock in the people who’ll bring your day to life. Prioritize the vendors who book up the fastest — caterer, florist, photographer, videographer, band, or DJ. The earlier you secure them, the more options you’ll have.

Start dress shopping: Finding the dress takes time. Begin browsing designers and boutiques, try on different silhouettes, and allow room for fittings and alterations. Inspiration boards on Instagram or Pinterest can help you narrow your style.

Arrange guest accommodations: If you’re planning a destination wedding or expect a lot of out-of-towners, research hotels now. Reserve a block of rooms to simplify booking for your guests and often secure a group discount.

Launch your wedding website: A simple wedding site keeps everyone on the same page with details, travel info, and your registry. Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Zola make it easy to design something polished without needing tech skills.

Shop for invitations: Your theme should now guide your paper goods. Explore designs that reflect your style — formal letterpress, playful graphics, or minimalist chic — so your save-the-dates and invites set the right tone from the start.

8–9 Months Before: Making It Official

Say yes to the dress: This is the time to finalize your wedding gown. Place your order now to allow for shipping, fittings, and alterations. At the same time, choose and order bridesmaids’ dresses so everyone has plenty of time for adjustments.

Send save-the-dates: Give your guests plenty of notice, especially if travel is involved. Double-check your guest list for accuracy, then mail or email save-the-dates that match your wedding style.

Build your registry: Skip the guesswork for your guests by creating a registry that fits your lifestyle. Mix practical items with a few fun splurges, and share the link on your wedding website for easy access.

6–7 Months Before: Locking in the Details

Plan the rehearsal dinner: It’s easy to overlook the night before, but the rehearsal dinner sets the tone for the wedding itself. Book the venue now so you can focus later on the menu, guest list, and toasts.

Confirm remaining vendors: By now, most of your major vendors should be secured. If not, this is your deadline to finalize the photographer, videographer, florist, and entertainment. Good ones book quickly, and you don’t want to scramble.

Prep for your honeymoon: If you’re traveling abroad, make sure your passports are current. Apply now if you need renewals — processing can take weeks.

Reserve rentals: Think beyond the basics. Chairs, linens, lighting, and décor all need to be ordered early to guarantee availability and avoid last-minute stress.

Choose your officiant: Whether it’s a clergy member, a professional celebrant, or a close friend, secure your officiant now. If a friend is marrying you, confirm they’re legally able to do so in your state.

Consider wedding insurance: It’s not romantic, but it’s smart. Weather, illness, or emergencies can derail even the best-laid plans. Cancellation insurance helps protect your investment.

4–5 Months Before: Fine-Tuning the Experience

Arrange transportation: Think through the logistics of the day: will guests need a shuttle from the ceremony to the reception? Do you want a getaway car, vintage ride, or classic limo for your exit? Secure bookings now before availability narrows.

Book your honeymoon: This is the sweet part of planning. Whether it’s a beach escape, mountain retreat, or city adventure, reserve flights and accommodations while there are still plenty of options.

Outfit the wedding party: Grooms and groomsmen should have tuxedos or suits ordered by this point. Decide whether you’ll buy or rent, and allow time for fittings.

Finalize food and drink: Schedule a tasting with your caterer to lock in menu choices and cocktails. Use the opportunity to select your wedding cake as well.

3–4 Months Before: Bringing It All Together

Send invitations: Place your final order and get your wedding invitations mailed. This is also the right time to prepare enclosure cards or digital RSVPs to keep responses organized.

Lock in the menu: After tastings and revisions, confirm your full menu — hors d’oeuvres, entrées, cocktails, desserts, and late-night bites. Once decided, share final choices with your caterer so they can plan accordingly.

Plan guest favors: Decide on gift bags or keepsakes for your guests. These don’t have to be extravagant; thoughtful or handmade items often leave the biggest impact. Include rehearsal dinner favors if you’d like.

Prepare ceremony details: Work with your officiant to finalize the flow of the ceremony. Write your vows, select readings, and review any rituals or traditions you want included.

1–2 Months Before — Final checks

Send rehearsal-dinner and wedding invitations: Confirm that everyone who got a “save the date” also receives a formal invitation. Mail rehearsal-dinner invites now so guests can plan accordingly.

First dress fitting: Schedule your initial fitting about two months out. Expect a final fitting roughly one week before the wedding.

Secure your marriage license: Handle the legal paperwork at least a month in advance so there are no last-minute surprises.

Touch base with vendors: Visit your florist to review mock-ups of centerpieces and arrangements. Share your must-play list with the DJ and any ceremony musicians, and confirm timing with all key vendors.

Purchase small items: Make a checklist of anything not covered by vendors or rentals, then shop: guest favors, gift bags, and any last décor details.

Pay your vendors: Gather payment dates and settle outstanding balances in the final weeks. Prepare tip envelopes for the catering and service teams.

Iron out seating: Grab a glass of wine, this can take a while. Arrange tables with conversation in mind, avoid awkward pairings, then print place cards (and extras).

1 Week Before

Book self-care appointments: After months of planning, it’s time to focus on you. Schedule a manicure, pedicure, hair trim, or brow appointment. If you can, treat yourself to a full spa day to unwind.

Do your final dress fitting: Bring your wedding shoes, veil, and accessories so you can see the complete look and make any last adjustments.

Pack for the honeymoon: Get your bags ready ahead of time, it’s one less thing to stress about, and it makes the post-wedding getaway that much smoother.

Confirm your guest list: Track down any lingering RSVPs and finalize your headcount with the venue and caterer.

Break in your shoes: Wear your wedding shoes around the house to avoid blisters and sore feet on the big day.

Check in with vendors: Confirm arrival times, load-in details, and day-of schedules with every vendor.

Prepare payments: Have checks or envelopes with final payments and gratuities ready to distribute on the wedding day.

Wedding Day

Rest and recharge: Easier said than done, but do your best to get a solid night’s sleep. Start the morning with a good breakfast to fuel you for the day ahead.

Take care of last-minute details: Hand the rings to the best man, settle any remaining payments (like your officiant), and thank your wedding party for their support.

Be present: The planning is done. Trust the work you’ve put in, let go of the logistics, and focus on enjoying the celebration. This day is yours.

Say “I Do” in Just One Year

Your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. With this timeline as your guide, a year is plenty of time to turn that vision into reality. By pacing the planning, making thoughtful choices, and leaning on the right people, you’ll keep stress low and joy high.

When the day arrives, all that’s left is to be present, savor the moment, and say “I do.”

Let Maxwell be the setting for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration. With its classic ambiance and interiors, and spaces that already feel timeless, Maxwell makes it easy to host a wedding that’s both meaningful and unforgettable. Each space provides a ready-made backdrop that brings your vision to life.

Book a private tour today and see how naturally Maxwell fits your wedding.