Eighteen months prior to wedding date

* Announce engagement.
* Discuss wedding style, budget,ceremony, and reception site.
* Select wedding date.
* Consult with clergy or officiant.
* Begin compiling the guest list, consulting family on both sides.
* Visit reception sites; interview caterers; book your selections.
* Gather referrals for musicians, florists, photographers, and other vendors you may need.
* Start to shop for your wedding gown.

One year to six months

* Discuss honeymoon preferences.
* Determine wedding-party size.
* Choose and invite attendants.
* Finalize guest list.
* Shop for rings; order engraving.
* Hire musicians, photographer, videographer.
* Select wedding gown, accessories.
* Start thinking about where to register and what gifts you will register for.

Six to four months

* Shop for wedding invitations. Order invitations and thank-you notes.
* Schedule vacation time at work.
* Book honeymoon reservations.
* Review menu with caterer.
* Arrange lodging for visiting guests.
* Shop for attendants’ gowns.
* Finalize honeymoon plans. Make sure passports are current.
* Arrange limousine transportation.
* Make wedding-day hair and makeup appointments.

Three to two months

* Discuss flowers, including bouquets and boutonnieres, with florist.
* Finalize ceremony details.

Ten to eight weeks

* Have invitation address list ready; begin to address invitations or have them addressed professionally.

Eight to six weeks

* Mail invitations.
* Print program for ceremony.
* Prepare song list for musicians.
* Purchase gifts for bridal party.
* Purchase favors.
* Order formal wear for wedding party.

One month

* Apply for marriage license.
* Plan rehearsal dinner.

Two weeks

* Confirm guest list with caterer.
* Draw up seating chart.
* Write out place cards.
* Prepare photo list for photographer.
* Confirm delivery dates and times.
* Confirm all wedding-day travel and honeymoon reservations.

One week

* Remind guests of rehearsal dinner.
* Give caterer final guest count.
* Pick up formal wear; check for fit.
* Write out instructions for ushers.
* Obtain travelers’ checks for trip or confirm that ATMs will be available and will work with your card.
* Seal tips in marked envelopes.
* Relax, and get ready to enjoy your wedding week.