Plan for wedding perfection

Do you have a wedding on the way? Congratulations! Whether you’re the bride, the groom, one of the parents or a guest, a wedding is something to look forward to and to enjoy planning.

Planning the wedding can be fun, and, once you’ve started, you’ll discover that, actually, there isn’t as much to do as you might have feared.

Remember the most important part of any wedding is that two people who love one another will be there at the ceremony. Anything after that is a bonus.

So, rather than getting wrapped up and worried about which roses are in season and whether it ought to be a city chic wedding or a fairytale affair, or wondering if you can persuade your daughter not to insist on having her dog at the ceremony, take a deep breath.

Then read our wedding planner, delegate tasks to others and enjoy making decisions about orange or turquoise napkins, white or cream sandals, canapés or a cream tea reception!

Most wedding planners like at least 12 months to organise a wedding, so our countdown begins a year before the big day. Of course, some people are planning for far longer, while others have a lot less time.

12 MONTHS BEFORE

Arrange to see the minister/priest/ rabbi/registrar to fix the wedding date and time.

Book the reception venue, caterer, DJ and band.

For weddings abroad take a look at the website www.weddings.co.uk for information on legal requirements for weddings at various overseas destinations.

11 MONTHS BEFORE

Decide on the number of guests and draw up a guest list.

Book a photographer/videographer, check your venue allows photography and filming, and start browsing at wedding shops.

10 MONTHS BEFORE

Choose your attendants, best man and ushers.

Keep looking at dresses and think about attendants’ outfits.

Order your wedding cake.

Start thinking about the honeymoon and consider booking early.

NINE MONTHS BEFORE

Arrange the florist.

Start planning your wedding gift list – usually it is easier to have a list at just one or two stores.

Confirm your menu choice and drinks order.

EIGHT MONTHS BEFORE

If marrying in church, speak to the vicar/organist and arrange to discuss your readings and music. If you’re planning a civil ceremony, ask the registrar what readings and music you are allowed. If you are planning a humanist ceremony after the civil ceremony, discuss readings, music and words to be spoken by the couple (for more information see the website www.humanist.org.uk).

SEVEN MONTHS BEFORE

Book transport to the wedding venue and on to the reception for the couple, parents and attendants, plus a car to the first night hotel or airport.

SIX MONTHS BEFORE

Buy your wedding outfit/arrange fittings with a dressmaker.

Arrange hire of the groom’s, best man’s and ushers’ outfits.

Choose attendants’ presents.

Choose wedding rings.

Send out “keep the date” cards or emails.

Order stationery, including invitations and orders of service

FIVE MONTHS BEFORE

Book your first night hotel.

Book your honeymoon.

FOUR MONTHS BEFORE

Find out if you need visas or inoculations for your honeymoon.

Start thinking about those extras, from exploding balloons to fairy lights for the tables.

THREE MONTHS BEFORE

Buy your going away/honeymoon clothes.

Have a trial make-up/hair session and book your makeup artist/hair stylist for the day.

Send out invitations with maps, and keep a list of acceptances and refusals along with any dietary requirements.

Book the wedding rehearsal.

TWO MONTHS BEFORE

Inform caterers of the final number of guests, if known (or as soon as you do), chase up those who haven’t yet replied to your invitations.

Work out your seating plan.

Check all arrangements are in place including licences, outfits, rings, hotels, transport, caterers, photographers, honeymoon, florist, music and so on.

Try on your entire wedding outfit, including your shoes and underwear.

ONE MONTH TO GO

Arrange for your luggage to be sent to your reception venue or first night hotel.

Order your honeymoon currency.

Have your hen and stag nights.

TWO WEEKS TO GO

Finalise the reception details with any changes in guest numbers.

Double-check arrangements and smaller points such as decorations.

Check your attendants have their duties organised.

Arrange delivery of your wedding gifts after your return from honeymoon.

Try on your wedding outfit once more in case last minute alterations are needed.

ONE WEEK TO GO

Hold a dress rehearsal.

Have fake tan/manicure/pedicure if desired.

Thank all involved for support so far.

ON THE DAY

Enjoy!