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2004-2006
 

Wedding checklist
 
9-12 months before
 
Set a budget. Think hard about this. You'll have to make tradeoffs later to stay within budget.
Select a wedding date, time, and type (nighttime? outdoor? black tie?) We know you've been thinking about this since you were little, so it shouldn't be hard...

Reserve a location--they fill up quickly! Some locations include the ceremony location and caterer. Otherwise, now is a good time to find a caterer and a ceremony location
Call a local hotel/motel to reserve rooms (and a discount!) for out-of-town guests
Reserve a band or DJ
Pick Bridesmaids and Groomsmen.
Ask the bridesmaids and groomsmen if they would serve in your wedding party. While it is certainly an honour to be selected, keep in mind that it often takes a considerable amount of effort (and additional cost) on their end... Show your appreciation.
Research bridal gowns and bridesmaids' dresses.
Reserve a photographer/videographer.
Find local florists and make arrangements to review their work. No need to book them this early but start the research now... This service could also be offered by the venue where the service/reception will be held.
In all cases, sign contracts with all appropriate parties and make your budget clear (this will take some research).
Review the legal requirements if either partner was born or is currently living overseas... see Marriage in Australia

6-9 months before
 
Decide the size of the guest list (once you've researched the cost per guest, etc.) Set strict guidelines. Start compiling your own guest list. Keep in mind that many single guests would appreciate a "+guest" on their invitation.
Shop for the bride's gown and the groom's tuxedo. (if it is not to be hired)
Shop for bridesmaids' dresses; have for your groomsmen measured and reserve the
tuxedos (if your groomsmen do not live close to the formal wear shop you choose, tell them to go to a local shop)
Shop for the veil, etc.
Decide on a honeymoon destination
Order the wedding cake.
The parents of the groom should begin to arrange the rehearsal dinner if one is planned for.
Arrange for transportation to the wedding for the bride, groom, and wedding party.
Start a wedding web site to help communicate with all your guests, especially out of towners.

Five months before
 
Your engagement announcement is sent to the newspaper.
Physical exam appointments are made with your doctor/dentist.
Select and order your wedding rings.
Select and order the invitations and stationery.
Complete the guest lists.
Finalize honeymoon details and make the necessary reservations.
Confirm delivery of bridal gown

Four months before
 
Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer.
Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.
Purchase wedding rings.
Schedule the rehearsal with all relevant parties.
Finalise the design and printing of the program for the ceremony.
Finalise and check the florist details, photographer, videographer, musicians, wedding cake, etc.
Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Schedule the time and place for the rehearsal dinner.
Mail a "save the date," if desired.
Check requirements A marriage license in your in Australia, a 'notice of intended marriage' must be lodged at least 30 days before the event... see Marriage in Australia

Eight weeks before
 
Mail invitations and announcements.
Set an appointment with your photographer for your formal bridal portrait.
Select gifts for all your attendants.
Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.

Six weeks before
 
Have a final fitting for your gown.
Pick up the wedding rings.
Don't forget the wedding accessories! (ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.)
Decide how the wedding gifts will get to the new home.
Confirm florist details and delivery times.
Plan the seating for the reception as well as other details for the ceremony and reception.
Make sure all bridesmaids' attire has been fitted.
Choose the music for your ceremony, first dance, parent dances, and party and give information to band, dj, or other musicians.

Three weeks before
 
Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc.
Prepare the wedding announcement for the newspaper.
Reconfirm the accommodation for your guests.
Get your marriage license.
Schedule and book for the bridesmaid's luncheon

Final week
 
Review seating details with the ushers.
Try on all the clothes.
Finalize the seating arrangements for dinner/reception.
Pack for the honeymoon and confirm plane and hotel reservations.
Call any guests who have not responded yet.
Have the bridesmaid's luncheon
Review all the final details with your photographer, videographer, band, dj, etc.
Give a final head count to the caterer.
Wrap and present the wedding party gifts.
Confirm final details with all parties hired for the wedding.
Have a rehearsal dinner and have a beautiful wedding day.

Order of the day
 

Great planning of your reception is the key to a magical wedding night! Whether it's a gala affair or a relaxed get-together, clever planning is so important if you want it to run smoothly. The time of the day you choose to have your ceremony usually determines what kind of reception will follow. Morning ceremonies are usually followed with a lunch reception; an afternoon wedding is usually followed by a sit down dinner. These can either be informal or formal; it really depends on what kind of ceremony you choose to have.

A large traditional church wedding will usually be followed by a formal dinner, whereas a mid-afternoon garden wedding may be followed by a more casual buffet. Keep in mind it is your day, and it is okay to have your reception any way you want, whether you have a black tie masquerade event, or a barefoot buffet in a park!

  • Guests arrive at the church, venue or special place for the ceremony
  • Wedding party takes time out for photos
  • Everyone arrives at the reception venue
  • The bride and groom arrive to greet their guests... either to mingle or to take their place in a receiving line.
  • The photographer takes some more pictures
  • Pre-dinner drinks
  • Guests are seated and dinner is served
  • All toasts and speeches are made
  • The best man reads messages, lettergrams, faxes, emails etc.
  • The bride and groom cut the cake
  • Traditionally, the bride and groom have their first dance, followed by the parents of the newlyweds, the attendants, and then the guests
  • The bride and groom enjoy their guests' company and work the room!
  • The bride throws her bouquet
  • The groom tosses the garter
  • The bride and groom change into their leaving outfits
  • If there is a guest book, the guests sign before they leave
  • The special couple leave the reception for either their hotel or for the after-party (which is becoming very popular).
  • The parents of the bride and groom thank the guests for coming
  • Family member checks ceremony/reception venues for any items left behind

If the bubbly is flowing and everyone is smiling and laughing, then all you need to do is relax and have a great time!

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