your
year — 26
wedding guide
welcome
Congratulations to you both on this new chapter together
Take a second to soak it all in. You're getting married. That's huge.
I'm honored to be the one documenting this part of your story. If there's one thing I've learned from all the weddings I've shot, it's this: plan a day that feels good to you. Forget the pressure and do what makes the two of you feel most like yourselves.
This guide is here to help, whether you want to read through it all or just skim for the good stuff. The goal? A day that feels easy, intentional, and 100% you.
I'll walk you through everything I can to help things run smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: getting married and having the time of your life. Let's dive in!
it out
talk
Here’s a simple list to help you figure out which photo moments matter most to you both. It’ll make it easier to share your priorities with me, so I can focus on capturing what’s most meaningful to you.
+ How long would you like your portrait session to be?
+ Do you have certain photo locations in mind?
Couple Portraits
Your photos are more than just images. They're your memories. To make sure we're capturing what matters most, I recommend sitting down together and talking through what's important to each of you. Some moments might mean more to one of you than the other, and that's completely normal. It just helps to be on the same page before the big day.
And just like it's important for you two to stay connected, the same goes for us. If at any point you need a breather or want to step away from the camera for a bit, just let me know. No pressure, no stress. This day is all about you and making sure it feels right every step of the way.
+ Getting dressed (aka putting on your wedding outfits after I arrive)
+ Photos of accessories and details such as jewellery, perfume, cufflinks, ties, watches or anything sentimental
+ Single portraits in the morning. These can be stunning and feel different from the rest of the day. I highly recommend it, but if you are uncomfortable with this, that’s completely fine.
+ Family photos
+ Wedding party photos (in your robes/PJs and then in your wedding attire)
+ Exchanging gifts
Getting Ready Photos
I'll be focusing on capturing the moment without interrupting it. You might not even realize I'm there!
ceremony
+ Who would you like group photos with?
+ Is there anyone you don’t want in certain group photos?
Family Photos / Group Photos
While I'm capturing the moment, I'll make sure not to interrupt your special moments. Call me over anytime for photos with loved ones.
Reception & Dancefloor
Section One /
getting ready
Getting ready can be one of the most relaxed parts of the day with just a few simple tips. Here are some ideas to help make that time feel smooth and natural.
to get ready with?
who
Getting ready for your big day can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Remember that you have the freedom to choose who you want to share this 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 those quiet moments, calming each other's nerves, and creating lasting memories together. These moments can be captured in photographs and remembered for years to come. Make the most of this time before you say "I do".
choosing who to spend
the morning of your wedding day with is a meaningful decision
to get
ready with?
GET messy
It will
Here are tips to ensure your wedding photos look their best amidst the excitement and chaos of getting ready.
NOMINATE A TIDY TEAM
Nominating family or friends to help keep things organized during your preparation can make a big difference. They can do simple tasks like picking up empty glasses and bottles or discarded hangers to keep the space tidy.
PRIORITIZE NATURAL LIGHT AND SPACE
To help capture great photos, natural light and space are essential. If you're unsure which room to use for photos and as the designated mess-free zone, I'm happy to help you choose. Your tidy team can quickly declutter the room before I start taking pictures.
BEAUTY IN THE CHAOS
Despite having friends around to keep things tidy in the morning, some of the mess will still be visible in the photos as I'll be taking shots from various angles around the space. However, as a documentary photographer, I believe there's beauty in every moment, including the chaos.
Keeping your space tidy
will creating a stress-free environment for getting ready and taking photos
location
Unsure about where to get ready for your big day?
I’ve detailed some of my favourite places for your inspiration below.
other accomodation
at home
airbnb
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 look great.
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.
Getting ready in the comfort of your own home, or your family's home, can add a lot of meaningful details. I will take some shots (photos to help tell the story of the day) and capturing the details of the home or family home can make for special images.
Airbnbs can be a great location for capturing your getting ready photos. Not only can they provide a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, but also a unique and visually interesting 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 right Airbnb that fits your style and vision for your wedding day.
grooming
If you're having your makeup done, try to position yourself in front of a large window to catch the natural light. This will cast flattering light on your face while your makeup is being applied and help me take the best photos possible.
And if you're not having your makeup done, I still want to capture the 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 with my camera.
makeup
/
photos
detail
+ Socks
+ Perfume
+ Ties
This can include but is not limited to:
These photos are of all the accessories that you'll 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 have them ready for me 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 apart?
or
+ Starting the day together can help create a sense of calm and ease any pre-wedding nerves.
+ Spending the entire day with your partner is a meaningful way to celebrate and be present with each other.
+ Getting ready photos of you and your partner can be really special and meaningful.
+ By getting ready in the same location, I can capture more 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 moment together before the ceremony. This moment can be shared with just the two of you or with your loved ones present.
Here are some reasons why getting ready together can be a great experience:
Whether you decide to get ready separately or together, this will be a memorable part of your day.
With Your Wedding Party
Between You And Your Partner
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 reactions.
I'd be happy to capture this moment for you in a well-lit area of your accommodation with plenty of natural light. I'll give you privacy and mainly shoot from a distance. Once you've exchanged your words and gifts, I'll take some photos of the gifts as well.
exchanging gifts
Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating together, so don't feel obligated to follow any specific traditions. Do what feels right for you as a couple and enjoy your day.
food
Don't forget to eat something 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 fed, especially you and your partner.
But if it's just the two of you getting ready, make sure food preparation isn't on your mind. Bring some snacks, order in, or head out to a nearby café for a quick bite. Keep your energy up.
To make sure I get to your ceremony location before you and your guests, I'll leave from the getting ready location about 30 minutes before you do. This way, I can familiarize myself with the space, photograph the ceremony setup, and talk with your celebrant before everyone arrives.
Ceremony Location Earlier
I'll head to your /
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 be prepared.
To add a cohesive look to your photos, you and your wedding party could consider wearing matching robes or getting-ready outfits. For those who prefer to wear their own clothes, suggest wearing something they feel comfortable in.
what to
When it comes to the getting ready portion of your day, I typically spend around 40 minutes to an hour with each partner. This allows me to capture the important details like your outfit, hair, makeup, and any grooming. Of course, if one of you is getting ready faster or slower than the other, we can adjust the timing.
getting ready
Time Spent With You /
To make sure we have enough time to capture the getting-ready process, it's helpful if your hair and makeup are finished around 30-40 minutes after I arrive. Please make sure your wedding party's hair and makeup are already done before I arrive, and save yours for last.
If you prefer I don't photograph you while putting on your outfit, I recommend waiting for me to arrive before getting dressed so we can discuss what you're comfortable with me photographing.
I'll be leaving for the ceremony 30 minutes before you do, so factor in enough time for any unexpected delays like makeup or hair running over. If you need help putting together a timeline, let me know.
WHEN should I BE ready?
If you're open to stepping away from tradition, a first look can offer some real benefits. This is where you and your partner share a private moment in your wedding attire while I capture the reactions. Taking place between getting ready and the ceremony, it allows you to share an intimate moment without an audience, spend more time together on your day, and ease any pre-ceremony nerves.
From a photography perspective, a first look allows me to capture genuine emotions and reactions. It also expands your photography timeline, giving us more time for portraits, group shots, and couple moments. If your ceremony is later in the day, a first look helps us make the most of the natural light for portraits.
the first look
Section Two /
ceremony
Kids in the wedding
Kids walking down the aisle are sweet, but it's best to have a plan B in case things don't go smoothly. 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 a crowd of faces can be overwhelming for young children, especially if it's their first time as flower children. Having a plan B will give you peace of mind so you can enjoy the moment without worrying about potential hiccups.
windy
A long veil can be beautiful, but it can cause problems if it gets windy. If you're planning an outdoor ceremony and decide to wear a veil, show your wedding party how to remove or adjust it so they can help you if needed.
Also, keep in mind that it's completely 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 you and will understand if you need a moment.
it can get
This is a meaningful moment. Allow yourself to take it in and enjoy it. I'll be there to capture your reactions, so take your time.
If you'll be holding a bouquet, hold it at your belly button with relaxed arms. If you're wearing a long dress, you may need to keep one hand free to lift it slightly while walking.
If the thought of walking down the aisle feels overwhelming, remember you have options. You can choose to walk with a loved one, including your partner. And if you're not a fan of traditions, feel free to skip the walk altogether and show up in a way that feels right to you.
walking down the
AISLE
UNPLUGGED
Consider a phone-free ceremony. Kindly ask guests to keep phones away to fully experience the moment. It reduces distractions and helps me capture candid shots without obstructions. Your celebrant can make the announcement before the ceremony begins to remind guests to turn off their devices.
CEREMONY
End your ceremony with a confetti exit to celebrate. This can make for some great photos. You can opt for flower petals as an eco-friendly choice.
To organize the exit, quietly hand out confetti as the ceremony ends or pre-place it on the chairs before guests arrive. Remind your guests not to use it until you both exit 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, ask your celebrant to announce that congratulations will take place after you complete the walk.
confetti exit
CONGRATULATIONS!
After the ceremony, take some time to receive well wishes from your guests. Find a clear space near the ceremony site and invite your guests to join you. Your celebrant can help facilitate this.
You can also walk around and thank each guest. They'll understand this is their cue to offer congratulations.
CEREMONY LIGHTING
For optimal ceremony lighting, consider positioning yourselves in either direct light or all shade. It's best to avoid one of you being in shade while the other is in sun, as it makes it difficult to capture balanced photos. If your ceremony is during the day and it's hot, staying in shade can also keep you comfortable.
For indoor or nighttime ceremonies, most venues and churches have adequate lighting. If you have concerns, we can meet at the location before your wedding day to assess the lighting.
NOT?
It's becoming more common to have a child-free wedding, and it's completely acceptable. You can include this information on your wedding invites if you choose.
If you decide to invite children, they may cry or become restless during your ceremony. To ease concerns, you can talk with their caregivers beforehand and let them know it's okay for them to step out if their child becomes fussy.
CHILD FREE or
CHOOSE YOUR CELEBrANT
Choosing the right celebrant is important since they'll play a significant role in your day. Select someone you connect with and feel comfortable around.
Keep in mind that each celebrant has their own style, whether it's heartfelt or lighthearted. You can ask to see videos of their past ceremonies to get a sense of their approach. Another option is to have a friend officiate, with the celebrant present to make it official.
Personal vows are optional, and it's completely understandable if you feel uncomfortable sharing them in front of guests.
If you'd 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'll take photos in the background. We can plan this after getting ready, after your first look, between post-ceremony portraits, or during a sunset session.
PERSONAL VOWS
Writing personal vows is entirely optional
Section Three /
and
family
portraits
group shots
If you want a group photo with all your loved ones, we can take it right after the ceremony when everyone is gathered. We'll need plenty of space, so an outdoor location is ideal.
I'll work with the celebrant to direct everyone to the photo spot. Enlisting a friend with a loud voice can help gather everyone. A step ladder and loudspeaker can come in handy if needed.
group
PHOTOS
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.
FAMILY
PHOTOS
Generally, for a family of:
family two
+ 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
+ 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
How Long Do Family Photos Take?
To make sure we get all the shots you want, please 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'll ask one of your trusted friends or family members to assist me in gathering the different groups.
If there are any sensitive or challenging family dynamics I should be mindful of, please share with me. My goal is to create a comfortable environment for everyone.
Example of family photos for you and your partner may be:
+ 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 one
Section Four /
PARTY
and
couple photos
wedding
photos
Wedding Party
During the photo session with your wedding party, I prefer to take all the wedding party photos first before taking you both for some couple shots. This way, you can have a moment to yourselves for the rest of the shoot.
If you want your wedding party to join the couple's photo session, we can make that happen. But I may suggest taking a short walk away from the group to capture some shots of just you two.
PHOTOS
couple photos
take?
I want to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease during your couple photos. I understand your wedding day can be busy, so I'll work around your schedule.
To ensure we have enough time to create those images, I suggest allowing 20-40 minutes of shooting time (not including travel time between locations). If you'd like to visit several locations, allocating 1-1.5 hours can give us enough time. Remember, less can be more—fewer locations means more time to relax in front of the camera.
How long do
couple shoot?
+ Touch-up makeup and mirror.
+ Comb & Bobby Pins
+ Spare Shoes (just in case your feet get sore if we’re walking between locations)
+ Permits for shooting locations.
What should I bring on the
+ Champagne/Refreshments
+ Sunscreen
+ Emergency kit with safety pins, stain remover, and sewing kit.
+ Tissue for blotting sweat or tears
+ Snacks
photos
For the most beautiful light, the ideal time for couple photos is during sunset and blue hour when the sun isn't too harsh. However, if this isn't possible, don't worry. I have experience shooting in all types of lighting and will capture great photos no matter what. As long as there's some light available, I can work with it.
take these
should we
What time of the day /
One of my top tips to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera is to schedule an engagement session before your wedding day. This gives us the chance to get to know each other better, plus you'll have more photos for your walls. You can even use engagement photos for RSVPs, wedding invitations, and holiday cards.
The most important thing is to just be yourself. I understand that posing can feel awkward, but I'll be there guiding you and making you feel at ease.
And if you're not a fan of posing, no problem. I love capturing candid moments too, and I'll provide subtle prompts to help you feel natural during your shoot.
couple photos
Tip for feeling comfortable in
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 your big day. I'll make sure to drive myself to the portrait location before you leave and will also return to the venue slightly before you.
transport
Section Five /
dinner & reception
reception styling
If I'm unable to photograph the reception styling before guests arrive due to timing, we can discuss booking a second photographer to make sure everything is covered.
Photographing the
Details of your reception styling add to the story of your day. To ensure the photos look their best without unwanted distractions, I'd like to capture them before your guests arrive. Please let me know what time your guests will be arriving so I can plan accordingly.
If you're unsure about the lighting at your reception venue, I'm here to help. I have experience working with different lighting situations and can bring my own lighting equipment if needed.
That said, I try to avoid using flash during speeches, as it can be intrusive. If you can provide enough lighting for the reception and speeches, it will help me be less intrusive while still getting great photos. If you have any questions about the lighting, let me know.
reception lighting
To make your cake cutting moment easier, plan ahead with the venue to have a knife and champagne set up on the table. This way, you won't have to worry about it and can just enjoy the moment.
cake
To capture the speeches and guests' reactions well, having adequate lighting in the speech area is important. If you're unsure about how much lighting is required, I can offer suggestions.
Speeches
Cutting the
If your reception is outside or if your first dance is during sunset or golden hour, the natural light during that time creates beautiful, warm tones that work really well for these moments. Consider timing your first dance to take advantage of that light.
FIRST DANCE
I recommend allocating 5-10 minutes in your timeline for me to set up some stationary lighting. It won't take long, and it'll make a difference in the shots.
Be sure to invite your loved ones to stand around the dancefloor during your first dance, and I'll capture their reactions.
Hot tip:
The moment after your first dance is the perfect opportunity for everyone to hit the dance floor. If your guests need a little nudge to get the party started, your wedding party can lead the way by joining you first and encouraging everyone else to follow.
Dancefloor time
Section Six /
what else?
Weather
In the event of rain, don't worry. Rainy shots can be romantic and unique. If rain is forecasted, I recommend purchasing some nice, sturdy umbrellas just in case. This way, we can still capture some moments without getting drenched.
Taking
I will need to take breaks to eat, drink, and catch my breath. I always bring some snacks with me, but when dinnertime comes, I'll eat at the same time as you and your guests. No one wants photos of themselves eating anyway, so I won't be missing anything.
A Break
I highly recommend it. Having both photos and video is a great way to capture your wedding memories.
If you choose to hire a videographer, I'll work with them to capture your moments in the best way possible. It's important to choose a videographer who shares a similar style with me so we can collaborate seamlessly. If the videographer has a different approach that doesn't match my documentary style, it might be challenging to get the shots you want when they're directing you.
If you're not sure who to hire, I'm happy to recommend some videographers who align with my work style. If you decide not to book a videographer, ask one of your guests to at least film the speeches. You'll love watching the replay.
VIDEOGRAPHER?
Should I hire a
VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Section Seven
If you need help finding vendors for your wedding day, I'm happy to offer recommendations based on your needs and style. I've worked with many talented professionals throughout Southern California and can point you in the right direction.
Just reach out and let me know what you're looking for - whether it's a florist, videographer, hair and makeup artist, DJ, or coordinator - and I'll connect you with vendors I trust.
Section Eight /
Timeline Examples
Photograph Partner One makeup/grooming, outfit details, and invitations.
Photograph Partner One putting their outfit on and single portraits.
Leave for Partner Two’s House.
Photograph Partner Two getting dressed, grooming, buttonholes, single portraits, the rings
I leave for the ceremony to photograph the location/setup before guests start to arrive.
You leave for the ceremony.
Guests arrive at the ceremony.
Ceremony starts.
Ceremony ends + congratulation Photo.
Group photo with all the wedding guests.
Family group photos.
Guests go to cocktail hour. We go take couple photos.
Guests find their reception seats.
Couple and wedding party entrance + cake cutting
First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Dinner + speeches
Dessert is served + We sneak off for some quick sunset/ blue-hour portraits (Optional).
We get back / Dancefloor Shots.
All Done!
WEEKEND COVERAGE EXAMPLE
8-HOUR COVERAGE EXAMPLE
3-HOUR COVERAGE EXAMPLE
included in All-In Weekend Package
included in Complete Story Package
included in Elopements Package
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Photograph Partner One makeup/grooming, outfit details, and invitations.
Photograph Partner One putting their outfit on and single portraits.
Photograph Partner Two getting dressed, grooming, buttonholes, single portraits, the rings (location is walking distance).
I leave for the ceremony to photograph the location/setup before guests start to arrive.
You leave for the ceremony.
Guests arrive at ceremony.
Ceremony starts.
Ceremony ends + congratulation photos.
Group Photo with all wedding guests.
Family Group Photos.
Guests go to cocktail hour. We go take couple photos.
Guests find their reception seats.
Couple and wedding party entrance + cake cutting
First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Dinner + speeches.
Dessert is served.
All done!
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I arrive at the ceremony location/setup before guests start to arrive.
Ceremony starts
Ceremony ends + Congratulation Photos
A few family group photos
Couple portraits at nearby location..
All done!
Arrive at rehearsal dinner location.
Coverage ends.
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Wedding Day
Rehearsal Dinner (Day Before Wedding)
Section Nine
do's don'ts
and
Take a deep breath. Today is a celebration, so soak up the moments.
Create a photo timeline for the day to make sure we capture all the important moments.
Write down a list of all the family group shots & send it to me before the wedding.
Write down any specific photos your would like & send it to me before the wedding.
Let me know 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.
Bring your wedding invites, and I'll capture them for you.
Tidy up the getting ready location before I arrive - nominate someone to help you with this.
Make sure the reception area is well-lit to get the best shots possible.
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do's
dont's
Get caught up in trying to please everyone else. This day is about you and your partner. It's okay to say no to requests or traditions that don't align with your vision.
Worry about the photos - I've got it covered.
Stare at the camera - just be yourself and pretend I'm not even there, except for group and posed shots.
Forget to eat and drink water throughout the day. You'll need energy to enjoy the day.
Feel like you can't take breaks. It's a long day, and you'll need some downtime.
Be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted family members or friends. You don't have to do everything yourself.
Hesitate to reach out to me about anything.
Forget to book a wedding album - it's discounted when booked with your wedding package.
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Wedding Planners
Below are some complimentary checklists to help you plan your day. These aren't required - a wedding can look however you want. Use these lists as a guide for what your wedding day could involve. You can print them out and use the checkboxes to mark off what you've accomplished, or mark anything that doesn't apply as N/A.
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 CHECKLIST
Item Checklist
Wedding Checklist Planner
12-18 Months
8-12 Months
4-8 Months
▢ Finalize 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 (my final
payment is now due)
▢ 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 friends 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!
Print the Planner