Timeline: 9-12 Months

This is the detailed time line for 9-12 months. Most of the items are very important because they are prerequisites for the rest of your planning. The sooner you get these done, the sooner you can get to the fun stuff.

Plan budget*

You can't figure out what you can afford for each vendor if you don't know your total budget. Also it's easier to narrow down vendors, when you know you can't afford them. You should also prioritize what's most important to you and relate it to the wedding. For example, for me the photography was the most important, so that's what I spent the most money on.

Make rough guest list*

To get a basic quote from any vendor, you will need to know a rough estimate of the number of guests you will have. The venues will have occupany limits, so knowing a rough count will help you know if certain venues are even possible.

Set wedding date*

Of course you will need to know a date before you select venues and vendors. Sometimes, if you have your heart set on a specific venue you can choose your date on what they have available, although you will still need to decide a general season you would like your date in.

Book ceremony & reception location*

The venues are the first things to be booked. Popular venues in season may be booked a year in advance, so if you really want a certain venue make sure you book it asap! If you are out of season or have a flexible date, you may have a little more time. Also, the venue may set the tone of your wedding, which will set what you may want to wear, eat and how to decorate.

Select bridal gown*

Unless you know you want to buy an off the rack dress or buy preowned, the dress is one of the first things you should do. If you are ordering from a designer, most dresses have a lead time of 8 months. Some designers can rush the dress or have a shorter lead time, but if you don't want to be restricted by time, start shopping asap.

Select members of wedding party

This is the least important task, especially if you are only going to have a small wedding party and they are in town. Otherwise, if they are out of town, you should give them notice, so they can arrange travel plans etc. You probably already know who will be your maid of honor, best man, groosmen and bridesmaids, but discussing it with your fiance sooner better than later is best.