Wedding planning timeline

Backward planning from your date. Generate a dated version with the timeline generator.

12–18 months

• Set the budget and the guest list range. Everything else follows from those two numbers.
• Book the venue. Ask about curfew, outside caterers and the rain plan before you fall in love with the room.
• Book the photographer and the band or DJ; the good ones go first.

9–12 months

• Book caterer (if outside), officiant, florist, videographer.
• Order attire; allow four months for alterations.
• Cultural ceremonies: confirm the priest, rabbi, pandit or officiant and the ceremony order with both families.

6–9 months

• Book entertainment beyond the DJ (ideas), rentals, transportation, hotel room block.
• Send save-the-dates. Build the wedding website.

3–6 months

• Menu tasting; finalize bar package; apply for a Special Occasion Permit if the venue is unlicensed.
• Order invitations; send at 8–10 weeks.
• Collect vendor tech riders and send them to the venue.

4–8 weeks

• RSVP cut-off at 3 weeks; final numbers to the venue at 10–14 days.
• Seating plan, run of show, vendor confirmations.
• Marriage licence from any Ontario municipal office: valid 90 days anywhere in Ontario, $180 in Toronto, two pieces of government ID each.

The week

• Hand the run of show to your coordinator. Pack the emergency kit. Pay balances due.

The day after

• Tips and final invoices. Return rentals. Send the first thank-yous within two weeks.