6 to 8 Months Before Your Wedding
8 Months
Choose the Bridal Party Dresses:
It's time to shop for bridal party attire. Start by browsing bridesmaid dresses and consider shades or patterns that complement your wedding's theme and go well with a range of skin tones. Also, consider how much your bridesmaids will be comfortable spending on a dress. If your bridesmaids live nearby, ask them to come shopping with you.
Order and Send out Save-the-Dates:
Make your wedding official and send out save-the-date cards (or stickers, chocolate bars, magnets) to share the news with potential guests! The save-the-dates should include your names, wedding date, and general location. And it should let recipients know that a formal invitation will soon be on the way. Keep in mind that everyone who gets a save-the-date will also get an invitation.
Create a Gift Registry:
Your wedding registry is basically a list of gifts you and your partner both want. Choose a store and items you desire and then create the registry online or in person. Once your registry is complete, you can share it with guests through your wedding website.
7 Months
Start Planning Your Rehearsal Dinner:
Traditionally held the night before the wedding, your rehearsal dinner is a time for your family and close friends to spend time together and become acquainted. Think about what you'd like to eat, who will host the party, and whether it should be formal or casual.
Reserve Rentals:
If your venue does not provide tables, chairs, linens, and other reception essentials, you'll need to rent them. Before you make a reservation with a rental company, find out what their policies are, how much it costs to use their services, and if they deliver and set up rentals. Make sure you also work with your caterer, florist, and venue to ensure you get what you need.
Meet With Your Officiant:
It's a good idea to schedule an appointment to meet with your officiant again to discuss the ceremony, finalize details, and get to know them a little better.
6 Months
Start Planning Your Honeymoon:
Six months before your wedding, you might set aside some time to think about your honeymoon. Talk with your fiancé about the budget, where you'd both like to go, and for how long. You don't have to leave immediately after your wedding, it's alright if you both want to rest for a few days before taking a trip. If you have some wiggle room in your budget, consider hiring a travel agent to help.
Research Hairstylists and Makeup Artists:
Research local hair and makeup artists to help you look your best on your wedding day. Schedule trial appointments with your chosen stylists. We recommend trying to make the appointment for the time of day your real wedding will take place, so you can see how you look in different lights.
Explore Baker and Cake Options:
Start by searching for bakers in your area and create a list of your favorites. Find out who's available on your wedding date, ask about logistics, and compare prices. Once you've found a baker, schedule a tasting.
Think About Favors:
You aren't required to give out favors, so think about if it's something you wish to do and have room in your budget. If you decide to offer favors for guests to take home, choose something that goes with your theme and coordinates with the colors used in your wedding. If you feel stuck coming up with ideas, know that you can't go wrong by offering something sweet.
Choose Invitations:
If you haven't ordered invitations yet, now's the time. Choose invitations that match the theme of your wedding, and make sure to order enough so you have room for mistakes. Invitations should include names, the location of the ceremony and reception, date, time, and RSVP details.
Schedule Alterations:
If your venue does not provide tables, chairs, linens, and other reception essentials, you'll need to rent them. Before you make a reservation with a rental company, find out what their policies are, how much it costs to use their services, and if they deliver and set up rentals. Make sure you also work with your caterer, florist, and venue to ensure you get what you need.
Alexandra's Alterations