Weddings - Planning Checklist

Easy Checklist for Your Perfect Wedding
Reprinted from the West Michigan Bride Planner Publication

Announce your engagement
Discuss the formality, size, and location of the wedding/reception with both families
Set the wedding date and time
Meet with clergyman or judge to confirm date and time
Reserve site for the ceremony

Talk to the wedding official and organist about music, decorations and procedure at the ceremony
Select readings and music for the ceremony
Select music for the reception
Schedule rehearsal dinner
Get a list of services and menu possibilities from the caterer or other reception contact

Order invitations, announcements and other stationery
Select attire for the groom and groomsmen
Confirm delivery dates of all attire and schedule fittings from bridal and
bridesmaids' gowns
Purchase wedding album and guest books
Schedule wedding portrait

Address invitations
Select bridesmaids' and groomsmen's gifts
Have formal bridal portraits taken
Make lodging arrangements for out-of-town guests and attendants
Arrange transportation for bridal part to and from the ceremony and reception sites
Coordinate menu plan from the rehearsal dinner with the groom's family
Finalize the arrangements for flowers, menu, wedding cake(s) and music
Change insurance policies, charge accounts, bank accounts, will, driver's license and Social Security listing to reflect name and/or address change
Write wedding announcement for newspapers
Make appointment with hairdresser from the day of or day before your wedding

Mail invitations
Send maps to out-of-town guests
Set up table for wedding gifts
Record all gifts and write thank-you notes as gifts arrive
Notify the wedding party of rehearsal time and invite guests to the rehearsal dinner
Make bags of rose petals or rice for throwing as you leave the reception
Make arrangements for a dressing place for the bridesmaids
Make a household check for home furnishings that are still needed

Double-check all arrangements
Have blood tests done and pick up marriage license
Have final fittings for all attire
Address and stamp announcements
Record each gift as it is received and write a thank-you note promptly
Check on all accessories for wedding outfit and for bridesmaids' outfits
Provide photographer with a list of desired photographs
Send wedding announcement to photographer
Draw up a seating plan for reception: make place cards for bride's table
Give caterer or reception contact a final estimate of number of people attending
Pack for honeymoon