Planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job. With so many moving parts—from booking venues to finalizing menus, outfits, timelines, and yes, those adorable wedding favors—it’s easy for things to slip through the cracks. We created this ultra-detailed wedding planning checklist to help you with vendor coordination, stay organized, relax, and prepare for your big day.

With determination and a well-organized wedding planning checklist, you'll transform your nuptials planning into a joyful journey, ensuring every detail shines perfectly on your special day.

Preparation might seem daunting, but remember: you've got this!

Each step you take, incorporating a detailed checklist, is a step closer to crafting the celebration of your dreams. By addressing tasks like venue selection and vendor coordination with methodical precision, you create a tapestry rich with love and celebration, uniting friends and family in joyous harmony.

Embrace the process with enthusiasm, knowing that your meticulous planning will lead to an unforgettable moment. The checklist serves as your trusted guide, steering you smoothly from engagement to "I do." Celebrate each milestone, embrace the details, and relish in the knowledge that your day will be extraordinary.

Use this wedding planning checklist as your guide and check off each task as you go—trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.

Planning ahead is the cornerstone of a seamless wedding experience. By starting early and taking a proactive approach, you are setting the stage for a celebration that is not only memorable but also enjoyable for you and your guests. Let’s explore why this forward-thinking mindset is crucial to your wedding planning journey.

By laying the groundwork early, you significantly reduce stress levels. You give yourself ample time to explore options, compare vendors, and make informed decisions without the pressure of looming deadlines. This care in planning allows you to savor every moment leading up to your big day and ensures that the process remains enjoyable and exciting.

With time on your side, you have the luxury of allowing your creative ideas to flourish. Planning ahead means you can experiment with themes, colors, and personalized touches that reflect your unique style. This thoughtful consideration results in a wedding that truly resonates with your vision, creating an authentic and heartfelt celebration.

•  Discuss your overall vision and style (rustic, elegant, boho, etc.) with your partner to ensure you’re both on the same page about the atmosphere you want to create.

•  Set a realistic budget (and identify who’s contributing) to prioritize your spending and avoid financial surprises down the road.

•  Draft a guest list (estimate headcount) early, as this will influence many of your decisions, from venue size to catering needs.

•  Choose your wedding date range to allow flexibility when booking venues and vendors.

•  Research and tour potential venues to find the perfect setting that matches your vision and comfortably accommodates your guest list.

•  Book your ceremony and reception venues as soon as possible, since popular locations tend to fill up quickly.

•  Hire a wedding planner (if using one) to help manage details, negotiate with vendors, and keep wedding planning on track.

•  Start a wedding planning binder or digital folder to organize contracts, planning tools, a checklist, inspiration, and essential documents in one easily accessible place.

•  Choose your wedding party thoughtfully, considering the people who will support you and make your celebration even more meaningful.

•  Hire a photographer and a videographer to capture every special moment, ensuring you’ll have beautiful photography and memories to look back on for years. Review portfolios and meet with potential candidates to find the perfect fit for your style.

•  Book your officiant early, whether a religious leader, judge, or a close friend, to ensure they’re available on your chosen date and comfortable with your ceremony preferences.

•  Research and book a caterer who can create a menu that reflects your tastes and accommodates your guests' dietary needs—schedule tastings to finalize your selections and ensure quality.

•  Choose your DJ, live band, or entertainment to set the tone for your celebration and keep guests engaged. Discuss playlists and special requests in advance.

•  Shop for your wedding dress, allowing plenty of time for fittings and alterations so you feel confident and comfortable on your big day.

•  Choose ceremony music, such as a string quartet or soloist, to create the perfect atmosphere as you walk down the aisle and celebrate your union.

•  Start a wedding website with registry info to keep guests informed about event details, accommodations, and your gift preferences. This central hub makes communication easy and efficient.

•  Send out Save-the-Dates well in advance, especially if you have guests traveling from afar, to give everyone ample time to make arrangements.

•  Research and book a florist who can bring your floral vision to life, from bouquets to centerpieces, and help tie together your overall theme.

•  Plan and book a honeymoon, check your passport’s validity, and make any necessary travel arrangements early for a stress-free getaway after the celebration.

•  Finalize your color palette and wedding theme to create a cohesive look that reflects your personality and sets the tone for your celebration. Share your vision with your vendors to ensure everyone is on the same page.

•  Order your dress, allowing ample time for fittings and alterations so it fits perfectly and you feel your best on the big day.

•  Choose bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire that complement your overall style and are comfortable for your wedding party. Coordinate colors and fabrics for a polished, unified look.

•  Meet with the florist to finalize floral plans. Discuss seasonal blooms and arrangement styles that will enhance your venue and theme.

•  Schedule tastings and choose a menu that delights your guests and accommodates dietary restrictions. Collaborate with your caterer to create a memorable dining experience.

•  Start working on the invitation suite, including save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, and additional inserts. Consider your theme and colors to ensure a consistent design.

•  Book rentals such as chairs, linens, flatware, and lounge areas to complete your event setup and comfort your guests.

•  Plan décor and signage needs, from welcome signs to table numbers, to add personal touches and guide your guests throughout the venue.

•  Schedule a hair and makeup trial to experiment with different looks and ensure you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day.

•  Arrange transportation, whether limos, shuttles, or vintage cars, to ensure everyone arrives on time and in style. Consider logistics for both the wedding party and guests for a seamless experience.

•  Finalize the guest list using your wedding planning checklist to ensure you have an accurate headcount for your venue, caterer, and invitations. Double-check addresses and contact information to avoid any last-minute issues.

•  Order invitations, ensuring the design matches your wedding theme and includes all essential details for your guests.

•  Purchase wedding rings, allowing time for resizing or engraving if desired, so they’re ready for your ceremony.

•  Book a rehearsal dinner venue that suits your style and accommodates your closest family and friends for a memorable pre-wedding gathering.

•  Choose and order a wedding cake, scheduling a tasting to select flavors and designs that reflect your tastes and complement your celebration.

•  Begin premarital counseling if required or desired, as it can help strengthen your relationship and prepare you for married life.

•  Plan ceremony details, including readings, vows, and unity rituals, to create a meaningful and personalized experience.

•  Confirm honeymoon travel plans, double-checking reservations, passports, and any necessary documents for a smooth getaway.

•  Schedule the second dress fitting to ensure your gown fits perfectly and any needed adjustments are made in time.

• Choose and order wedding favors that reflect your style and show appreciation to your guests.
  ✨ This is a great time to order customized favors like our handcrafted Honey jars — personal, sweet, and practical. Add your names, date, or wedding logo for a perfect touch! Thoughtful favors like these leave a lasting impression and serve as a cherished reminder of your special day.

•  Send wedding invitations 6–8 weeks before the big day, giving your guests ample time to RSVP and make travel arrangements if needed. Double-check all details for accuracy before mailing to avoid any confusion.

• Create a wedding day timeline with a planner or coordinator

•  Create a wedding day timeline with your wedding planning team or coordinator using your wedding planning checklist to ensure every moment flows smoothly, from getting ready to the last dance. Share this schedule with your vendors and wedding party so everyone is on the same page.

•  Finalize the menu with your caterer, confirming all courses, beverages, and any special dietary accommodations for your guests.

•  Create ceremony and reception playlists that reflect your personalities and keep the energy high throughout the celebration. Include memorable songs for key moments like your first dance and cake cutting.

•  Purchase gifts for your wedding party as a heartfelt thank you for their support and involvement in your journey.

•  Prepare welcome bags for hotel guests, filling them with thoughtful essentials and local treats to make everyone feel at home.

•  Design and print programs, menus, and place cards that match your wedding theme and help guide guests through the festivities.

•  Begin any DIY projects, such as favors, signage, or décor, allowing plenty of time to complete them without stress.

•  Confirm vendor logistics, including arrival times, insurance, and contracts, to ensure everyone knows their responsibilities and everything runs seamlessly.

•  Apply for a marriage license, checking your local rules and requirements to make sure you have all necessary documents in order before the ceremony.

•  The final RSVP count is due, so you can provide accurate numbers to your caterer, venue, and rental companies. Contact any guests who haven’t responded to ensure you have a complete list.

•  Final dress and suit fittings should be scheduled to guarantee everyone’s attire fits perfectly, and any last-minute adjustments can be made.

•  Create a seating chart and a checklist that accommodates your guests’ relationships and preferences, making the reception comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

•  Confirm the timeline and responsibilities with your bridal party, so each member knows where to be and what to do throughout the day.

•  Confirm all vendor details, including arrival times, locations, and key contacts, to prevent miscommunications on your wedding day.

•  Write your vows and toast notes, taking time to reflect on your journey and express your feelings meaningfully.

•  Assign someone you trust to collect gifts and décor after the wedding, ensuring nothing is left behind, and you can focus on celebrating.

•  Assemble and package wedding favors well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
  🎁 Whether you're going with edible treats, candles, or our wildly popular infused honey jars, prep now so you’re not scrambling the week of. Thoughtful, beautifully packaged favors will delight your guests and add a special touch to your celebration.

•  Confirm the final headcount with the caterer and venue to ensure every guest is accounted for and all arrangements are set. At this time, double-check any special meal requests or accommodations.

•  Make final vendor payments and prepare tips in labeled envelopes, so everything is organized and ready to distribute on the big day.

•  Pack for the honeymoon, including travel documents, outfits, and any essentials for a relaxing getaway after the celebration.

•  Practice walking in your wedding shoes to break them in and ensure you’re comfortable and confident as you walk down the aisle.

•  Get a manicure and pedicure for polished, picture-perfect hands and feet that look great in close-up photos.

•  Delegate someone you trust to manage day-of questions and handle any unexpected issues, allowing you to focus on enjoying every moment.

•  You should drop off décor and favors at the venue ahead of time and coordinate with staff to ensure everything is set up according to your vision.

•  Print out copies of the seating chart and schedule to have on hand for vendors, coordinators, and your wedding party. This will keep everyone informed and organized.

•  Chat with the photographer about must-have shots, sharing your vision, and any special requests specific to wedding photography to ensure your memories are captured just the way you want them. This is also a great time to review the timeline and confirm key moments you want photographed.

• Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

• Lay out all attire, accessories, and emergency kit

• Pack an overnight bag for the wedding night

• Get plenty of rest and drink water!

• Eat a good breakfast

• Give rings to the best man or maid of honor

• Enjoy hair and makeup

• Take pre-ceremony photos

• Say “I do” and soak up every minute

• Display or distribute your favors!
  🐝 Your favors should either be placed at each guest’s seat, set up in a decorative favor station, or handed out by the couple at the end. Either way, don’t forget to grab one for yourselves too — it's a keepsake of a truly sweet beginning!

•  Send thank-you notes within 2–4 weeks to express gratitude to guests and vendors for their support and thoughtful gifts. Personalized messages go a long way in making everyone feel appreciated.

•  Review vendors online to share your experience and help future couples make informed decisions. Positive feedback can also strengthen your relationship with your vendors for future events.

•  If tradition allows, freeze the top layer of your cake so you can enjoy a sweet reminder of your special day on your first anniversary.

•  Clean and store your dress or suit properly to preserve it as a cherished keepsake or for future use. Consider professional cleaning and preservation services for the best results.

•  Return any rentals promptly to avoid late fees and ensure everything is in good condition for the next event.

•  Change your name and update legal documents if applicable, including your driver’s license, passport, and bank accounts, to reflect your new status.

•  Most importantly, take time to relax and enjoy married life! Celebrate your new beginning together and reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve created.

The little things often leave the biggest impression. Wedding favors are a chance to thank your guests with something personal and memorable. At Huckle Bee Farms, our custom honey jars are the perfect blend of rustic charm and practical sweetness. Your guests will love taking a piece of your big day home — and it’s something they’ll actually use (and remember!).

💛 Browse our full line of wedding favor options here!