B_entertained’s Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline: A Stress-Free Guide to Your Dream Day

03/20/2025

So, you’re engaged. Congrats! Now what? Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re breaking it down step by step. Follow this timeline to stay on track and stress-free.

12+ Months Before the Wedding

1. Dream It Up

Start by picturing your perfect day. Do you want a grand ballroom event or a backyard party? A summer celebration or a cozy winter wedding?

  • Set a rough date (or a few options).
  • Discuss budget expectations with your partner and key contributors.
  • Start building a guest list. (Estimate headcount affects everything!)
  • Browse Pinterest, Instagram, and wedding blogs for inspiration.

2. Lock in the Big Three

Your venue, photographer, and entertainment get booked fast. Secure these ASAP.

  • Venue: Tour locations and reserve your date.
  • Photographer/Videographer: Find someone whose style you love.
  • Entertainment: DJs, bands, or both? B_entertained DJs and More brings the party—no awkward silence, no dull dance floors.

3. Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional)

A planner can handle the logistics if you’re feeling overwhelmed. If you’re a DIY couple, create a detailed checklist to stay organized.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

4. Choose Your Wedding Party

Time to pop the question—to your bridesmaids, groomsmen, or wedding squad. Give them plenty of notice so they can plan ahead.

5. Book Key Vendors

Secure:

  • Catering (if not included in your venue)
  • Florist
  • Officiant
  • Rentals (tables, chairs, linens, etc.)
  • Hair and makeup artists
  • Transportation (if needed)

6. Say Yes to the Dress (or Suit)

Wedding attire can take months to arrive and alter. Start shopping now, especially if you’re going custom.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

7. Plan the Fun Stuff

  • Engagement photos (your photographer may include this in a package!)
  • Cake tasting (the best part, obviously)
  • Send out save-the-dates
  • Start looking at honeymoon destinations

8. Entertainment & Extras

  • Book a photo booth (B_entertained offers sleek, high-quality booths!)
  • Plan a lighting setup to match your vibe (B_entertained specializes in mood-setting uplighting and effects)
  • Think about extra entertainment—live musicians, cigar bars, lawn games?

4-6 Months Before the Wedding

9. Dress Up Your Guests

  • Choose bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire.
  • Finalize your wedding dress/suit fittings.

10. Finalize the Details

  • Create a wedding website for RSVPs and info.
  • Register for gifts.
  • Decide on ceremony details (music, readings, unity rituals, etc.).
  • Plan your reception timeline (first dance, speeches, cake cutting, etc.).

2-4 Months Before the Wedding

11. Invitations & Paperwork

  • Send formal invitations (include RSVP deadline).
  • Apply for a marriage license (rules vary by state).

12. Plan the Party Before the Party

  • Have your bachelor/bachelorette parties.
  • Plan the rehearsal dinner.
  • Schedule beauty trials (hair, makeup, nails).

1 Month Before the Wedding

13. Confirm Everything

  • Double-check all vendors.
  • Create a wedding-day schedule.
  • Finalize the guest count and send it to your caterer.
  • Pick up wedding rings.
  • Break in your wedding shoes (seriously, do it).

1 Week Before the Wedding

14. Prep & Pack

  • Confirm arrival times for vendors.
  • Pack a wedding-day emergency kit (safety pins, stain remover, breath mints, etc.).
  • Get your final beauty treatments (waxing, facials, tan, etc.).
  • Write your vows (if you haven’t already!).
  • Rehearse the ceremony.

Wedding Day!

15. Relax & Enjoy

You did it. Now soak up every moment, dance your heart out, and let the professionals (like B_entertained) handle the rest.

Our Final Thoughts…

Wedding planning doesn’t have to be chaotic. By taking it step by step, you’ll stay sane and actually enjoy the process. And remember—B_entertained DJs and More is here to keep your wedding stress-free and unforgettable.

Happy planning!