Wedding Season 2024: Complete Checklist and Timeline for Bride, Groom

Last update:December 08, 2024, 12:43 PM IST

Planning a wedding in India is not an easy task. Here’s a wedding planning checklist and timeline to save you some effort.

Plan a well organized wedding by deciding which aspect of the preparation to focus on when. (Images: Shutterstock)

Planning a wedding in India is not an easy task. The elaborate and joyous occasion requires extensive preparation. From selecting the perfect venue to arranging extravagant dishes and intricate rituals, every detail requires careful attention to ensure a smooth and seamless flow of events.

Given the complexities involved, we’ve created the ultimate checklist and timeline to help you stay organized. This wedding The planning guide will ensure that every aspect of your special day is well coordinated and flawlessly executed.

Wedding planning: 12-18 months before the day

• Allocate budget: First, set the wedding budget and allocate funds separately for the venue, decor, catering, attire and entertainment.
• Choose the date: Select a wedding date based on auspicious time, family traditions and venue availability.
• Reserve the Location: Go for advance booking of wedding venue including ceremony and reception spaces.
• Bookseller services: Book essential vendors such as caterers, photographers, videographers, decorators and musicians during this time frame for a smooth procedure.
• Make the Guest List: Compile a guest list, taking into account factors such as budget, venue capacity and preferences.
• Shopping: Start shopping for bridal lehenga, groom sherwanis and other ceremonial wear.

READ ALSO: Wedding season: tips for choosing the right wedding photographer

Wedding planning: 8-12 months before the day

• Design invitations: Create and order wedding invitations, RSVP cards and other necessary cards that incorporate personal touches.
• Accommodation For Guests: Next, you have to book hotel accommodation for the guests and even arrange transportation for them.
• Prepare for pre-wedding events: Start preparations for pre-wedding events like engagement parties, mehendi, sangeet and haldi ceremonies.
• Schedule beauty treatments: Reservations are required for beauty and skin care treatments, bridal makeup and other grooming requirements.

Wedding planning: 4-8 months before the day

• Complete the decoration: Collaborate with vendors to finalize wedding day decor and other functions as well. Be clear about what you want in floral arrangements, lighting and other visual elements.
• Catering menu: Finalize the catering menu and schedule tasting sessions.
• Plan entertainment: After decor and catering, select entertainment options such as live music, DJs, dancers and performers.
• Order wedding rings: It is the right time to choose your wedding rings and engagement rings, ensuring the proper sizing and preferred design.
• Honeymoon planning: Plan your destination selection, travel arrangements, accommodation and activities you want to enjoy during your honeymoon.

READ ALSO: Planning a destination wedding? Here are 5 places in India perfect for your big day

Wedding planning: 2-4 months before the day

• Complete the outfits: Complete wedding dress fittings and alterations, ensuring a perfect fit for your main event outfit.
• Confirm shipping: Arrange transportation to and from the wedding venue for guests and family members
• Get a marriage license: Apply for your marriage license and complete the necessary documents and legal requirements.

Wedding planning: 1 month before the day

• Confirmation with everyone: Confirm final details with vendors, makeup artists, and others to ensure proper delivery schedule and setup instructions.
• The essentials pack: Prepare a wedding day emergency kit. It should include items such as tissues, safety pins, snacks and make-up for touch-ups.
• Repeat the Ceremonies: Prepare for your special performances or rituals, if any, on your special day.
• Relax and enjoy: Relaxing before the D-day and pampering is necessary for that natural calm and glow on the face.

The comprehensive wedding planning checklist and timeline makes it easy to navigate your dream wedding planning journey in India. With each step you take, you get closer to the moment you exchange vows with your partner, making sure every detail is taken care of along the way.