Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many moving parts. A clear, well‑structured timeline keeps you organised, reduces stress, and ensures you can enjoy the journey as much as the day itself. This guide is written with UK weddings in mind, with tips for photography timelines and links to resources.
Before You Begin: Wedding Planning Foundations
Before booking anything, take time to agree on a few key decisions:
- Set a budget (including a small contingency)
- Draft an initial guest list
- Decide on a date, season, or year
- Prioritise elements that matter most (venue, photography, food, atmosphere)
Having clarity here makes the rest of your planning far smoother.
12–18 Months Before: Book Your Venues and Key Suppliers
Secure the biggest pieces first:
- Finalise your budget and guest numbers
- Book your ceremony and reception venue
- Hire key suppliers: photographer, videographer, planner
- Research ceremony options (church, civil, celebrant-led)
Popular venues and photographers often book well over a year in advance, especially for peak-season dates.
Check out my Portfolio for examples of past weddings to help envision your style.
9–12 Months Before: Send Save the Dates and Start Outfits
- Decide on your overall wedding theme or style
- Send save the dates, especially important for destination or summer weddings
- Start shopping for outfits and accessories
- Confirm ceremony details with your officiant or registrar
Keep a shared document or checklist to track all decisions.
6–9 Months Before: Book Remaining Suppliers and Plan Honeymoon
- Book additional suppliers: florist, entertainment, cake maker
- Arrange menu tastings with your caterer
- Plan honeymoon travel
- Create or organise your gift list
This phase is perfect for refining the details and ensuring everything aligns with your vision.
3–6 Months Before: Order Invitations and Draft Day Schedule
- Order and send wedding invitations
- Schedule hair and make-up trials
- Draft a detailed wedding day timeline
- Confirm logistics with all suppliers
A clear timeline at this stage helps everyone work together smoothly and ensures nothing is missed.
1–3 Months Before: Confirm Numbers and Details
- Track RSVPs and follow up as needed
- Finalise seating plans
- Confirm final numbers with your venue and caterer
- Choose music, readings, and personal touches
Open communication with your suppliers at this stage is essential.
1 Week Before: Prepare and Rehearse
- Share the final schedule with suppliers and wedding party
- Pack an emergency kit
- Rehearse the ceremony if required
- Take time to rest and enjoy the anticipation
Trust your plans and enjoy the last few days of preparation.
Photography Timeline Tips
As a wedding photographer, I often advise couples to consider these timing elements:
- Allow at least 45 minutes of buffer time after getting into your dress before the cermeony if getting ready at your ceremony venue
- Schedule group/family photos immediately following the ceremony for optimal light and energy
- Discuss your preferred shots and priorities with your photographer ahead of time
See more of my wedding photography work in my portfolio and contact me for advice via my contact page.
Your Wedding Day
Hand things over to your suppliers, stay present, and enjoy every moment. The best weddings aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection, emotion, and celebrating your story.
Final Note
This timeline is a guide, not a rulebook. Build in breathing room, allow flexibility, and make your wedding reflect you. For more personalised advice or help creating a photography-friendly day timeline, feel free to get in touch.
Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming, but creating a well-structured timeline ensures your big day runs smoothly and stress-free. This guide will walk you through the key milestones and tasks to help you organise every detail and enjoy every moment of your wedding day.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your plans, this comprehensive wedding planning timeline has everything you need to stay on track.
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