wedding guide
2025
year
Take a moment to appreciate your incredible bond that's led you to this milestone... you're getting married!
I'm beyond honoured to document your day and offer one important piece of advice: plan a wedding that makes you feel amazing and true to yourself. Leisurely read through all the details of this guide to plan your dream day, or simply skim through for a quick overview. The most important thing is that your wedding feels like you - comfortable, amazing, and unapologetically YOU.
In this guide, I'll cover all the intricacies to help your day run smoothly, so you can focus on saying "I do" and have a blast. Let's dive in!
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH ON EMBARKING ON THIS NEW CHAPTER TOGETHER
welcome
ready
getting
Section one
Your getting ready time can be both fun and stress-free with a few tips to help make everything run smoothly. Here are some ideas to make your getting ready time extra special:
who to get
ready with?
Choosing who to spend the morning of your wedding day with is a meaningful decision
Getting ready for your big day can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Remember that you have the freedom to choose who you want to share this special time with. Whether it's a big group or a few close loved ones, the key is to create an atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed.
If you're feeling adventurous, why not consider spending the morning with your partner? Imagine sharing intimate moments, calming each other's nerves, and creating lasting memories together. These moments can be captured in photographs and cherished for years to come. Embrace the excitement and make the most of this special time before you say "I do".
it will get messy
Keeping your space tidy will create a stress-free environment for getting ready and taking photos
Here are tips to ensure your wedding photos are perfect amidst the excitement and chaos of getting ready.
NOMINATE A TIDY TEAM
Nominating family or friends to help keep things organised during your preparation. They can do simple tasks like picking up empty glasses and bottles or discarded hangers to keep the space tidy.
PRIORITISE NATURAL LIGHT AND SPACE
To help capture gorgeous photos, try to use a room with good natural light and space.
BEAUTY IN THE CHAOS
Despite having friends around to keep things tidy in the morning, some of the mess may still be visible in the photos as I'll be taking shots from various angles around the house. However, as a documentary photographer, I believe there's a unique beauty in every moment, including the chaos.
location
Unsure about where to get ready for your big day? I’ve detailed some potential places for your inspiration below.
Other Accomodation
Show off your personality through your getting-ready location! Whether you choose a luxurious 5-star resort or a quirky retro motel on the side of the road, your photos will be stunning.
If you're staying at a hotel, resort, or motel, ask the staff if you can take photos in public areas. To ensure privacy, you can also request to reserve a specific area or section of the location during your photo session.
airbnb
Airbnbs can be the perfect location for capturing your getting ready photos. Not only can they provide a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, but also a unique and visually stunning backdrop for your photos.
If you're unsure of where to start, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or assistance with researching local options. Let's work together to find the perfect Airbnb that complements your style and vision for your wedding day.
At Home
Getting ready in the comfort of your own home, or your family's home can add lots of sweet, sentimental details. I will take some ‘context shots’ (aka photos to help tell the story of the day) and capturing the meaningful details of the home or family home can make for truly special images.
Makeup / Grooming
If you're having your makeup done, try to position yourself in front of a large window to catch the beautiful natural light. This will cast lots of flattering natural light on your face while your makeup is being applied as well as help me to take the best photos possible.
And if you're not having your makeup done, I still want to capture all the special moments of your getting ready process. Whether you're straightening your tie or putting on your necklace in front of a mirror, just let me know when you're getting ready to add those final touches and I'll be there to capture it all with my camera.
DETAIL photos
+ Socks
+ Perfume
+ Ties
This can include but is not limited to:
These photos are of all the accessories that you will be wearing to complete your outfit, such as cufflinks, necklaces, perfume, shoes, etc.
If you would like these photos, please make sure you gather all the pieces and let me know where they are when I arrive.
+ Shoes
+ Bags
+Cufflinks
+Tie Pin
+ Jewellery
+ Watches
You don’t have to follow the tradition of getting ready separately if it’s not your vibe, don’t feel pressured to do so
together or apart?
+ Starting the day together can help create a sense of calm and happiness, easing any pre-wedding nerves.
+ Spending the entire day with your partner is a beautiful way to celebrate your love and cherish every moment together.
+ Getting ready photos of you and your partner can be incredibly adorable and meaningful.
+ By getting ready in the same location, I can capture more special moments without the need to travel between places.
+ You can still have a first look and get ready together by preparing separately but sharing a special moment together before the ceremony. This moment can be shared with just the two of you or with your loved ones present.
Whether you decide to get ready separately or together, this will be an incredibly fun and unforgettable part of your day.
Here are some reasons why getting ready together can be a wonderful experience:
Exchanging Gifts
Between You And Your Partner
With Your Wedding Party
Remember, your wedding day is all about celebrating your love for each other, so don't feel obligated to follow any specific traditions. Do what feels right for you as a couple and enjoy every moment of your special day.
I would be honored to capture this sweet moment for you in a beautiful area of your accommodation with plenty of natural light.
Please don't feel shy or worried, as I'll give you all the privacy you need and mainly shoot from a distance. Once you've exchanged your heartfelt words and gifts, I'll take some pictures of them to cherish forever.
If you're planning to exchange gifts with your wedding party, let me know beforehand. I can take pictures of the gifts before they're given and suggest a location to capture the moment. During the exchange, I'll move around the room to take candid photos of the joyous reactions.
Food
Don't forget to take care of yourselves with a little sustenance during the getting ready portion of the day. If you're surrounded by family and friends, appoint someone to take charge of food arrangements to keep everyone satisfied, especially you and your partner.
But if it's just the two of you getting ready, let's make sure food preparation isn't on your mind. Bring some yummy snacks, order in or head out to a nearby café for a quick bite. Let's keep those stomachs happy!
This can include:
creating the vibe
+ Playing golf
+ Going to the local bar or cafe
+ Group Meditation
+ Gratitude Practice
Whatever will make your morning feel extra special and fun or will help get you in the right headspace, consider adding it to the getting ready portion of your day. Just let me know if you have an activity planned that you would like me to photograph.
+ Tarot or oracle card reading
+ Playing Games
+ Doing Yoga
+ Taking a walk on the beach or in nature
+ Going for a Surf
Put on some music, crack open a bottle of champagne, this is a day of celebration! There are no hard and fast rules for what to do in the morning, so feel free to mix things up and make it your own. You, your partner, and your wedding party can do any activities that will help you get in the mood for the day and make this time even more special.
To ensure I make it to your ceremony location before you and your guests, I will leave from the getting ready location about 30 minutes before you do. This way, I can familiarise myself with the surroundings, photograph the ceremony setup and have a little chat with your celebrant, before anyone else arrives.
I'll Head To Your ceremony location earlier
Heavy Makeup
Spray tan
If during your makeup trial, you feel like the makeup is a bit too heavy-handed, don't hesitate to speak up! It's important for you to feel confident and beautiful on your big day without worrying about looking "cakey" in your photos. Even if the makeup artist assures you that it will look great in pictures, trust us, it won't look any different. So, feel free to ask your makeup artist to try a lighter look or find a new artist who better understands your vision. Remember, it's your day, and you deserve to feel amazing!
I understand the appeal of a nice, sun-kissed glow. However, it's important to keep in mind that fake tans can sometimes look more orange than natural in photographs. If you're unsure about using fake tan, it may be best to skip it altogether.
If you do opt for a fake tan, I will still make sure you look good in all your wedding photos. I’ve got you!
When it comes to the getting ready portion of your day, I typically like to spend around 1-1.5 hour with each partner. If I work with a second photographer, they will cover the 2nd partner while I cover the first partner. This allows me/us to capture all the important details, such as your outfit, hair, makeup, and any grooming that you may need. Of course, if one of you is getting ready faster or slower than the other, we can adjust our time accordingly.
getting ready
time spent with you
what to wear
If you've booked me to capture your getting ready moments, let your family and friends know ahead of time that I'll be taking photos during this time. That way, everyone can feel comfortable and ready for the camera.
To add a fun and cohesive touch to your photos, you and your wedding party could consider wearing matching slips, robes or pyjamas. For those who prefer to wear their own clothes, suggest wearing something casual or anything they feel confident and happy in.
To ensure that we have plenty of time to capture all the precious moments of your getting-ready process, it would be great if your hair and makeup are finished around 30 - 40 minutes after I arrive. Please make sure that your wedding party's hair and makeup are already done before my arrival, and save yours for last.
Although you might prefer me not to take photos of you while putting on your outfit, I recommend waiting for me to arrive before getting dressed. This way, we can discuss and plan what you're comfortable with me photographing and tailor it to your preferences.
I'll be leaving for the ceremony shortly before you do, so please factor in enough time for any unexpected delays, such as makeup or hair running over time. If you need help putting together a timeline that works for you, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
when should i be ready-ish?
If you are open to stepping away from tradition, a first look at your wedding can offer many benefits. This is where you and your partner share a private moment in your wedding attire while I capture every priceless reaction. Taking place between the getting ready and ceremony part of the day, it allows you to share an intimate moment without an audience, savour more precious time together on your special day, and ease any pre-ceremony nerves.
From a photography perspective, a first look allows me to capture raw genuine emotions, from the tears, smiles, and sheer excitement while you scream at your partner, “you look soooo good!“. It can also expand your photography timeline, ensuring a diverse collection of portraits, group shots, and romantic couple moments. Lastly, if your ceremony is later in the day, a first look enables us to make the most of the warm natural light for your portraits.
the first look
ceremony
section two
Tiny humans walking down the aisle are adorable, but past experience has taught me it's best to have a plan B in case things don't go as smoothly as planned. If the little ones get overwhelmed or decide to do their own thing mid-walk, have someone close to them ready to step in and help them down the aisle.
Seeing so many strangers' faces at once can be daunting for young children, especially if it's their first time as flower children. Having a plan B in place will give you peace of mind, so you can enjoy the beautiful moment of walking down the aisle without worrying about any potential hiccups.
flower children
A long veil can be absolutely stunning, but unfortunately, it can cause some practical problems if it gets windy. If you're planning an outdoor ceremony and decide to wear a veil, it's a good idea to show your wedding party how to remove or adjust it so they can help you if it suddenly becomes very windy.
Also, keep in mind that it's perfectly normal to take a moment to adjust your outfit, remove your veil, or even sit down during your ceremony. Your loved ones are there to support and celebrate you, and they will understand if you need to take a break to feel more comfortable.
It can get Windy
This is such a precious moment. Allow yourself to soak it all in and enjoy every second of it. I will be there to capture every moment of you and your partner's reactions so really take your time.
If you’ll be holding a bouquet, it's best to hold it at your belly button with relaxed arms. If you are wearing a long dress, you may need to keep one hand free in case you need to slightly lift it while walking.
If the thought of walking down the aisle feels overwhelming, remember that you have options. You can choose to walk with a loved one, including your partner, to take the spotlight off of you. And if you're not a fan of traditions, feel free to skip the walk down the aisle altogether and show up in a way that feels true to you.
Walking Down the aIsle
Unplugged
Consider a phone-free ceremony, kindly ask guests to keep phones away to fully immerse themselves in the moment. It reduces distractions and helps capture candid shots without obstructions. Your celebrant can easily make the announcement before the ceremony begins to remind guests to turn off their devices and enjoy the ceremony with undivided attention.
Ceremony/Wedding
End your ceremony with a colorful and fun confetti exit to celebrate your marriage. This can make for some truly gorgeous, incredible photos. You can opt for flower petals as an eco-friendly choice for confetti.
To organise the confetti exit, quietly hand out confetti as the ceremony comes to an end or pre-place it on the chairs before guests arrive. Remind your guests not to use it until you both exit the ceremony at the end.
For the best photos, walk down the entire aisle without stopping, while your guests throw confetti or flower petals. To prevent guests from interrupting the moment by hugging or congratulating you, ask your celebrant to announce that congratulations will take place after you have completed the walk.
yay, confetti time!
After the ceremony, take some time to receive the love and well wishes from your guests. Find a clear and open space near the ceremony site and invite your guests to join you for congratulations. Your celebrant can also help facilitate this by inviting guests to come forward.
If you'd like to make it easier for your guests, you can also take the initiative to walk around and say thank you to each of them. They'll understand that this is their cue to offer their congratulations and share their love with you.
congratulations
For optimal ceremony lighting, consider positioning yourselves in either direct light or all shade. It's best to avoid one of you being in the shade while the other is in the sun, as it can be difficult to capture good photos in this situation. If your ceremony is during the day and it's hot, staying in the shade can also help keep you comfortable.
For indoor or nighttime ceremonies, most venues and churches have adequate lighting.
Ceremony Lighting
It's becoming more popular to have a child-free wedding, and it's completely acceptable to request this. You can include this information on your wedding invites if you choose to do so.
If you decide to invite children, it's possible that they may cry or become restless during your ceremony, leaving their parents feeling uncomfortable. To ease your anxiety, you can have a conversation with their caregivers beforehand. Let them know that if their child becomes fussy, it's okay for them to step out of the venue. This can reassure them and give them the option to leave the ceremony if necessary.
Child Free Or Not?
Personal vows are optional and it's completely understandable if you feel uncomfortable sharing them in front of your guests.
If you would like to write personal vows, but prefer not to have an audience we can arrange a private moment for just the two of you to exchange them. I will be there to take photos unobtrusively in the background. We can plan this moment after getting ready, after your first look, in between your post-ceremony portraits, or during some sunset portrait session.
PERSONAL VOWS
Choosing the right celebrant for your wedding is crucial since they will play a significant role in your special day. It's essential to select someone who you connect with and feel comfortable around.
Keep in mind that each celebrant has their own style, whether it's delivering a heartfelt speech or keeping things light and fun with some humor. To get a sense of their style, you can ask to see some videos of their past ceremonies. Another option to make your ceremony feel more personal is to have a friend officiate the ceremony, with the celebrant present to officiate.
CHOOSE YOUR CELEBRANT
family portraits and group shots
section three
If you want a group photo with all your loved ones, we can take it right after the ceremony when everyone is gathered together. We'll need plenty of space, so an outdoor location is ideal.
I'll work with the celebrant to direct everyone to the group photo spot. Enlisting a "loud" friend can also help gather everyone together. Though not necessary, a step ladder and loudspeaker can come in handy if we need to get everyone's attention and provide directions.
group photos
group photos
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Parents
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Siblings
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Immediate Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Extended Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Grandparents
Family Photos
Generally, for a family of:
This usually depends on how big your family is, how many groups you’ll be separating your family into, and how easy it is to coordinate everyone during the session.
How Long Do Family Photos Take?
family one
+ 20 (6-8 groups): it will take around 10-20min
+ 30 (9-12 groups): it will take around 20 - 30min
+ 40 (13-16 groups): it will take around 30 - 40 min
+ 50+ (17-25 groups): it will take around 40min - 1hr
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 2 Parents
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 2 Siblings
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 2 Immediate Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 2 Extended Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 2 Grandparents
family two
Your wedding day is an incredible opportunity to capture precious moments with your loved ones. To make sure we get all the shots you want, I kindly request that you provide me with a list of the specific photo groups you have in mind ahead of time. Depending on the size of your family, this can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour.
To help everything run smoothly, I will ask one of your trusted friends or family members to assist me in gathering the different groups.
Example of family photos for you and your partner may be:
If there are any sensitive or challenging family dynamics that I should be mindful of, please feel free to share with me. My goal is to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for everyone on your special day.
couple photos & wedding party photos
section Four
First of all, please know that you don't absolutely have to have a wedding party (i.e. bridesmaids and groomsmen). In fact, the current trend is going towards not having one to keep things simple.
However, if you decide to have a wedding party, I usually prefer to take all the wedding party photos first before taking you both for some intimate shots. This way, you can have a moment to catch your breath and enjoy each other's company for the rest of the shoot.
If you want your wedding party to join in the couple's photo session, we can make it happen. But, I may suggest taking a short walk away from the group to capture some stunning shots of just you two.
Wedding Party Photos
When it comes to capturing stunning photos of just the two of you, I want to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease. I understand your wedding day can be busy, so I'll do my best to work around your schedule and preferences.
To ensure we have enough time to create those beautiful, dreamy shots, I suggest allowing for 20-40 minutes of shooting time (not including travel time between locations). If you would like to visit several locations, allocating 1-1.5 hours for your shoot can give us enough time.
How Long Do Couple Photos Take?
What Should I Bring on the Couple Shoot?
+ Champagne/ Refreshments
+ Sunscreen
+ Emergency kit with safety pins, stain remover, and sewing kit.
+ Tissue for blotting sweat or tears
+ Snacks
+ Touch-up makeup and mirror.
+ Comb & Bobby Pins
+ Spare Shoes (just in case your feet get sore if we’re walking a lot between locations)
+ Permits for shooting locations.
For the most beautiful tones, the ideal time for couple photos is within 2 hours before sunset when the sun isn't too bright. However, if this isn't possible, don't worry! I have years of experience shooting in all types of lighting, so I will ensure to capture stunning photos no matter what. As long as there is some light available, I can work with it to create beautiful images for you to cherish.
What Time of the Day Should We Take These Photos?
The most important thing to remember is to just be yourself! I understand that having photos taken can be daunting, but trust me, I will be there every step of the way, guiding you and making you feel at ease. Also, unlike individual portraits, you'll be at least 2 people interacting, walking and chatting with each other and myself. It'll be a nice genuine relaxing time and I'll just happen to have a camera.
FEELING GREAT IN YOUR COUPLE PHOTOS
HOT TIP FOR
If you have a special location in mind for your portraits that's away from the venue, I suggest booking your wedding transport to cover the entire time needed. That way, you won't need to worry about transportation logistics on the day.
TRANSPORT
dinner &
reception
section Five
photographing the reception styling
Intricate details of your reception styling can add to the beautiful story of your special day. To ensure the photos look their best and there are no unwanted distractions, I would love to capture them before your guests arrive. When I work with a second photographer, they typically get to the venue early to cover this.
If you're unsure about the lighting at your reception venue, don't worry - I'm here to help. I have plenty of experience working with different lighting situations.
That being said, if the venue asks your preferences for dancefloor lighting, make sure to say no to coloured dappled lights!
reception lighting
To make sure we capture the heartfelt moments of your speeches and guests' reactions, you can ask the DJ (if you have one) to use a spotlight on the speaker. If not, thats ok too.
the Speeches
To make your cake cutting moment more special, I suggest planning ahead with the venue to have a knife and champagne set up on the table. This way, you won't have to worry about a thing and can just focus on enjoying the moment.
cutting the cake
hot tip
first dance
Ask your venue to dim the lights and your guests to hold up their phones with their torches on. This will create a concert-like vibe and make for some incredible photos. Just let your band or DJ know, and they can inform your guests to head over to the dancefloor and take part in the magic.
Be sure to invite your loved ones to stand around the dancefloor during your first dance, and I'll be sure to capture their reactions to this special moment.
The moment after your first dance is the perfect opportunity for everyone to hit the dance floor for a song or two. It's also an excellent chance for me to capture some early dance floor photos, especially if we're on a tight timeline. If your guests need a little nudge to get the party started, your wedding party can lead the way by joining you on the dance floor first and encouraging everyone else to follow. Let's make some memories! Let's light up the dance floor with some unforgettable moments!
DANCEFloor Time
be sure to schedule some
Depending on the photography package you choose, photographing your final exit, such as a sparkler exit, may not be the most efficient use of our time together. However, if you would like this moment captured, please let me know in advance so we can discuss the day's timeline and potentially book additional hours if necessary.
It's important to keep in mind that sparkler exits can be unpredictable. Although they can create some beautiful and fun photos, coordinating a large group of people to hold sparklers and form two lines can be challenging, especially when alcohol is involved. I will do my best to capture this moment though!
leaving with a bang
section Six
what else?
In the event of rain, don't fret! Rainy shots can be incredibly romantic and unique. If you're unsure of the weather or if rain is forecasted, I highly recommend purchasing some nice white or seethrough umbrellas just in case (I also have some in my car). This way, we can still capture some beautiful moments without getting drenched. Let's work together to make the most out of whatever weather comes our way.
The weather
As much as I am dedicated to capturing every moment of your special day, I am only human and will need to eat something at some point. I always bring some snacks with me, but when dinnertime comes, the best time to eat is at the same time as you and your guests, since 'chewing' photos are not the most flattering anyway!
taking a break
should i hire a videographer?
If you do choose to hire a videographer, I will work closely with them to capture all of your precious moments in the best way possible.
If you're not sure who to hire, don't worry. I'm happy to recommend some trusted videographers. If you decide not to book a videographer, make sure you ask one of your guests to at least film the speeches. Believe me, you won't regret it and will love watching the replay!
Timeline Examples
section Eight
Getting ready photography
Travel time to ceremony
Ceremony
Congratulations/ Hugs
Family/Friends photos
Couple photos
Couple entrance + cake cutting
Dinner + speeches
First Dance followed by dancefloor
Photography concludes
8-Hour Coverage
5-Hour Coverage
3-Hour Coverage
example
example
example
13:00
14:30
15:00
15:45
16:00
16:30
17:30
17:45
20:00
21:00
I arrive at the ceremony location/shoot the location and guests arriving.
Ceremony starts
Ceremony ends + Congratulation Photos
A few family group photos
We go take couple photos.
Couple entrance + cake cutting
Dinner + speeches
First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Photography concludes
14:00
14:30
15:15
15:30
16:00
17:00
17:30
19:30
20:00
I arrive at the ceremony location/shoot the location and guests arriving.
Ceremony starts
Ceremony ends + Congratulation Photos
A few family group photos
Couple photos
Photography concludes
14:00
14:30
15:15
15:30
16:00
17:00
DOs and DONTs
section Nine
Remember to take a deep breath, today is a celebration of your love story, so soak up every moment of joy and excitement.
Create a photo timeline for the day to make sure we capture all the special moments.
Write down a list of all the family group shots - send to me before the wedding and hand it over to someone who can identify people on the day.
Holla whenever you want a photo of you or you with a group.
Gather all the accessories you want in your detail shots and have them ready in the morning. You don't need to arrange them nicely, that's my job.
Bring your wedding invitations, and I'll make sure to capture them for you.
To make sure everything runs smoothly, tidy up the getting ready location before I arrive - nominate someone to help you with this.
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DOs
DONTs
Get caught up in trying to please everyone else. Remember, this day is about you and your partner. It's okay to say no to certain requests or traditions that don't align with your vision.
Worry about the photos - I got you.
Stare at the camera - just be yourself and pretend I'm not even there, except if I ask you to do so.
Forget to eat and drink water throughout the day. You want to have enough energy to enjoy the day and make it through the long haul.
Feel like you can't take breaks and recharge. It's a long day, and you may need some downtime to rest and reflect.
Be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted family members or friends. You don't have to do everything yourself, and it's okay to ask for help.
Hesitate to reach out to me about anything.
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wedding planning
Below is some complimentary checklist to help you plan your big day. These aren't 'have to' lists as a wedding can look however you want and involve anything that aligns with you. For this reason use this list as a guide for what your wedding day could involve. You can print out the planner and use the checkboxes to mark off what you've accomplished or if something doesn't apply to your wedding, just mark it as N/A.
wedding checklist planner
Getting Ready Location
▢ Bluetooth Speaker
(for the tunes while you get ready)
▢ Games
▢ Food & Drinks
▢ Clothing Iron/s or steamer
▢ Lint Roller
▢ Someone to Tie the Ties
▢ Hair Dryer
To Take to the Wedding
▢ Little Sewing Kit
▢ Deodorant
▢ Tissues
▢ Spare Bobby Pins
▢ Comb
▢ Hairspray
▢ Painkillers
▢ Band-aids
▢ Floss
▢ Safety Pins
▢ Lipstick, Gloss and/or Chapstick
▢ Shawl
(incase you get cold)
▢ Umbrellas
Wedding Planning Checklist
Purchase / Find for the Couple:
▢ Rings
▢ Dress
▢ Heels
▢ Jewellery
▢ Veil / Headpiece
▢ Nude Underwear / Pasties
▢ Perfume
▢ Suit
▢ Belt
▢ Tie
▢ Tie Clip
▢ Pocket Square
▢ Watch
▢ Cuff Links
▢ Shoes
▢ Socks
▢ Reception Outfit
▢ Reception Shoes
▢ Shawl
To Book / Organise:
▢ Photographer
▢ Videographer
▢ Stylist
▢ Wedding Coordinator
▢ Makeup Artist / Hair Stylist
▢ Celebrant
▢ Acoustic Act for Ceremony
▢ Reception & Dancefloor DJ / Band
▢ MC
▢ Transport
▢ Nail Parlour Appointment
▢ Getting Ready Location/s
▢ Ceremony Venue / Location
▢ The Reception Venue / Location
(if different from ceremony)
▢ Signage
▢ Florist
▢ Catering
(If not part of the venue service)
▢ Bar
(if not provided by venue)
▢ Wedding Cake
▢ Photo Booth
▢ Wedding Arch Styling
▢ Ceremony Seating
(If not provided by venue)
▢ Reception Tables & Seating
(If not provided by venue)
▢ Napkins
▢ Cutlery
▢ Plates
▢ Lights for Reception
(if outside or in dark venue)
▢ Candles
▢ Table Cloths
▢ Table Decorations
To Hire
To Purchase / Find - General:
▢ Wedding Invites
▢ Confetti
(or petals from your florist)
Create Styling Mood Boards For:
▢ Ceremony Styling
▢ Reception Styling
▢ Dinner Sets
▢ Flowers
▢ Signage
▢ Dress
▢ Heels
▢ Suits
▢ Belts
▢ Ties
▢ Cufflinks
▢ Shoes
▢ Buttonhole Flowers
▢ Corsage
(For parents)
▢ Flower Crown
(For flower children)
▢ Flower Children Outfits
▢ Ring Bearer Outfits
Purchase / Find for the Wedding Party:
To Do:
▢ Write Wedding Vows
▢ Print Wedding Vows
(If written digitally)
▢ Write Card for Partner
Print the Wedding Checklist
Item Checklist
Getting Ready Location
12-18 Months
8-12 Months
4-8 Months
▢ Finalise guest list
▢ Book an engagement photo session (with me ☺)
▢ Send save-the-date cards or create a Facebook event your save-the-date cards or Facebook event can feature one of your engagement photos
▢ Plan the wedding ceremony, including any readings or special traditions
▢ Book accommodations for out-of-town guests and/or send guests accommodation recommendations
▢ Book transportation for the wedding party and guests (if needed)
▢ Start planning your honeymoon
▢ Register for wedding gifts or organise a wishing well box
▢ Hire any additional vendors as a wedding day-of coordinator or a calligrapher for invitations
▢ Choose and purchase wedding rings
▢ Choose and order wedding party attire
▢ Select, order and send out wedding invitations
▢ Choose and order a wedding cake and other desserts
▢ Plan and book the rehearsal dinner
▢ Plan the wedding day timeline
▢ Book a meeting with your celebrant to go over the
ceremony details
▢ Arrange for any necessary rental equipment, such as tables, chairs, linens, etc.
▢ Choreograph and practice the first dance
practice makes perfect, so it's good to start early. If
you want a more relaxed first dance - prepare a
month before or make it up on the spot. Have fun with it!
The Day Before
On Your Wedding Day
2-4 Months
1 Month
1-2 Weeks
wedding Timeline Planner
▢ Set a budget for the wedding
▢ Determine the size and style of wedding you want
▢ Begin creating mood boards for your stylist or yourself can easily be created in Pinterest, see 'Create Styling Mood Boards' in the Checklist
▢ Choose your wedding date
▢ Select your wedding party if you are having one
▢ Research and book your ceremony and reception venues
▢ Hire a wedding planner (if desired)
▢ Begin compiling a guest list
▢ Research and book vendors see 'To Book / Organise' in the Checklist and Recommended Vendors' in the Wedding Guide
▢ Start shopping for wedding attire and accessories
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
the wedding
▢ Book wedding attire fittings for you, your partner and wedding party
▢ Choose wedding music including special dances, entrances and reception music
▢ Finalise menu with the caterer
▢ Book wedding bands
▢ Confirm guest count with caterer and venue
▢ Pick and buy place cards, menus, seating chart,
signage, and table No
▢ Purchase gifts for the wedding party and parents
▢ Obtain marriage license if registering your marriage before the wedding. You do this so a friend can unofficially officiate your ceremony on the day
▢ Make and share wedding day timeline with vendors, party, and family
▢ Finalise all details with vendors
▢ Confirm guest count with caterer and venue
▢ Finalise seating chart
▢ Purchase any last-minute items like favours or gifts.
▢ Attend final wedding attire fittings
▢ Write vows have someone review your vows for similar length and emotional style
▢ Return my questionnaire with all info on timeline
and group shots
▢ Confirm any uncertain final details with all vendors
▢ Pack for honeymoon
▢ Pick up wedding attire
▢ Arrange for any final payments to vendors
▢ Have a final meeting with your wedding planner
(if applicable)
▢ Provide vendors and guests with an alternate number for the wedding day it could be the number of your wedding planner or a knowledgeable friend/family member
▢ Relax and enjoy time with family and friends
▢ Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
▢ Get a good night's sleep!
▢ Get ready with your partner and/or wedding party
▢ Feel free to ask your friends and family for help on your big day whether you need drinks, snacks, or anything else, your friend and family want you to have an unforgettable time. So go ahead and reach out to them, and let them know what you need.
▢ Take a deep breath and enjoy each and every moment!
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