The wedding

Your countdown to the big day...

15 months to go

• See the minister, priest or rabbi to book the big day. Register office weddings can also be booked well in advance.
• Book your reception venue and caterers/ band/disco.
• Start deciding what you are going to wear and plan well ahead if your dress, shoes, bridesmaids' dresses etc, are being made.
• Decide upon and book your honeymoon to avoid disappointment.
• Consider taking out an insurance policy against possible disasters such as your dress being damaged or the pictures not coming out.
• Compile your guest list and decide upon your best man, ushers, bridesmaids and pageboys.

5 Months to go

• Book cars, especially if you want something unusual.
• Book professional photographer or video company.
• Window shop to get ideas for your gift list.

4 Months to go

• Confirm arrangements with the person who is performing your ceremony and decide what service you will have and how you will decorate the venue.
• Order your stationery – invitations/service sheets/ printed serviettes/place cards, etc.
• Organise your flowers.
• Buy those all important wedding ring(s).
• Decide upon your menu with the help of your caterers.

3 Months to go

• Finalise your honeymoon plans and book a hotel if needed for your wedding night.
• Shop for your goingaway outfit, lingerie, etc.
• See your doctor/ family planning clinic if necessary.

2 Months to go

• Send your invitations and gift lists out at least six weeks before the wedding. As your gifts arrive, send out thank you letters.
• Make sure that your guests have details of hotel and B&B accommodation.
• Buy presents for attendants, best man, bridesmaids, etc.

1 Month to go

• Chase up late invitation replies and finalise guest list. Work out seating plan.
• Check that all the wedding clothes are near completion. Visit your hairdresser and book your final appointment.
• Check that all transport is organised.
• If you want your wedding to appear in the local newspaper now is the time to organise it.

1 Week to go

• Now is the time to get involved with: Rehearsals, final checks on clothing, wearing in your wedding shoes at home, final checks on honeymoon arrangements, stag and hen nights