Mathilde Lacombe

Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind. One minute, you’re dreaming of the perfect day, and the next, you’re staring at a never-ending list of things to do. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a well-organised checklist, you can break everything down into manageable pieces, making the whole process smoother and (dare we say it?) even enjoyable.

12 Months to Go: The Big Picture

This is where the magic begins. With a year to go, it’s all about setting the foundation. Start by getting the basics sorted:

Set the date – Your wedding date will dictate everything else. Consider the season, your budget, and any key dates for family or friends. Once it’s locked in, you’re on your way.

Budget breakdown – Money talks, right? Deciding how much you want to spend early on is crucial. Chat with your partner about what’s most important to you both and prioritise those areas.

Guest list – This is harder than it seems. Whether you’re keeping it intimate or going all out, your guest list influences everything, from the venue size to the catering.

Venue search – You’ve got your date, your budget, and a rough idea of numbers. Now it’s time to find the perfect place to say “I do.” Do you want a rustic barn, a glamorous hotel, or maybe something a bit quirky? Whatever your style, start researching Cambridgeshire wedding venues early so you can find a special and romantic place for your wedding day.

Book your vendors – Photographers, florists, caterers—oh my! The good ones get snapped up fast, so once you’ve nailed down your venue, start booking the key players. If you’ve had your eye on a specific photographer or catering company, now’s the time to lock them in.

9 Months to Go: The Dream Details

With the big decisions made, it’s time to focus on the details. This is where the fun really begins!

Dress shopping – Now for one of the most exciting parts: finding thedress. Start shopping around, try on different styles, and see what makes you feel like a superstar. Don’t forget about your partner’s outfit, too—they deserve to feel fabulous as well.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen – Your bridal party is there to support you, so choose people who’ll bring joy to the day. Once you’ve decided, think about what they’ll be wearing and any gifts you’d like to give them as a thank you.

Invitations – Whether you’re going digital or traditional, it’s time to design your invitations and get them ready to send out. Be sure to include all the essential details, like RSVP dates and any accommodation suggestions.

Start planning the honeymoon – After all the excitement of the wedding day, you’ll be ready for some downtime. Start dreaming about where you’d like to go and begin the booking process. Whether it’s a beach holiday, a city escape, or something more adventurous, the world is your oyster.

6 Months to Go: The Logistics

This is where everything starts to come together. With six months left, you’re in the final stretch, but there’s still plenty to do.

Book the ceremony – Whether you’re opting for a religious or civil ceremony, make sure you’ve got everything sorted with your officiant. Some require pre-marital counselling, so double-check their requirements early on.

Food and drink tastings – It’s time to taste the menu and finalise what will be served on the day. This is where you can have a bit of fun—who doesn’t love sampling cake or cocktails? Just make sure the choices reflect you as a couple.

Finalise your décor – Think about your theme, colour scheme, and any personal touches you’d like to include. From centrepieces to the overall vibe, now’s the time to get creative.

Entertainment – Whether you’re hiring a live band, a DJ, or something completely different (fireworks, anyone?), make sure everything is booked and ready to go.

3 Months to Go: The Finishing Touches

Now, it’s all about tying up loose ends and making sure every detail is sorted. At three months out, things start to get real.

Hair and makeup trials – You want to feel your best on your wedding day, so book in for trials to make sure you love your look. Bring along any accessories, like a veil or jewellery, so you can see the whole picture.

Send out invitations – It’s time to get those invites in the post (or in inboxes). This gives your guests plenty of time to RSVP, and it means you can start finalising numbers.

Create a day-of timeline – Planning every moment might sound like overkill, but it’s the best way to keep things running smoothly. Work with your vendors to create a schedule, from the ceremony to the first dance and beyond.

Organise transport – Whether it’s a vintage car or something modern, make sure you’ve got transport sorted for both you and your guests.

1 Month to Go: The Home Stretch

With just one month to go, it’s time for the final countdown. You’re almost there!

Confirm with vendors – Double-check everything with your vendors, from timings to final payments. You don’t want any surprises on the day.

Break in your shoes – New shoes can be a killer on the dance floor. Spend some time breaking them in to avoid any discomfort during the big day.

Pack for the honeymoon – Start getting your suitcase together, making sure you have everything you need. It’s one less thing to worry about later.

Pamper yourself – Weddings can be stressful, so take some time for yourself. Whether it’s a spa day, a massage, or just a relaxing evening at home, make sure you’re feeling your best.

On the Day: Relax and Enjoy

You’ve done all the hard work, and now it’s time to soak it all in. Surround yourself with loved ones, stay present in the moment, and enjoy every second of your wedding day. The planning is behind you, and this day is all about celebrating your love story.

Planning a wedding is a journey, but with a solid checklist, you can approach each step with confidence. When you break it down into manageable tasks, you’ll find that the process can actually be enjoyable. And remember—this day is about you and your partner. Keep that at the heart of everything you do, and your wedding will be unforgettable.