12 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Determine your budget
It’s spreadsheet time! What is a must do? What do you have to do without? It’s important to keep an organized expense table that you can update on the go.
Make a guest list
After you’ve counted the numbers, decide on an employee number. Cut the headcount between you and your future spouse in half and start listing your loved ones.
Choose your wedding party
From beloved siblings and relatives to your closest friends, decide if your bridal shower should be early. Over the next few months, they will not only be of great help in planning for the big day, but will also use their energy and enthusiasm to make your wedding an entertaining and unforgettable celebration.
Book your chuppah and venue (s)
Popular venues are fully booked well in advance. So if you have your preferred spots in mind, it’s definitely worth closing one early.
Choose a caterer
It’s always best to choose someone you trust and, most importantly, someone who will create a menu the way you want.
Book your rabbi and the synagogue
You want to make sure your wedding date doesn’t fall on a Jewish holiday and your preferred rabbi is free, so give him a call now to book your appointment.
Book a band and / or a DJ together with a photographer and / or videographer
Get in early to make your first choice. Choose professionals who understand your vision of your special day and who you know will help make the occasion fun.
Do you need a wedding planner?
Does your budget allow a wedding planner to help you celebrate your dreams? Talk to friends and family and look for reviews to see who suits you best.
What will you wear
Will the bride have a dress or two? Does the groom need an imported suit? Allow plenty of time to choose the right dress / suit, take into account the amount of time it will take to import, tailor, etc.
Bridal shower clothes and wedding theme
Will your wedding be grand and opulent or casual and rustic? Once you have an idea of the style and theme of your big celebration, you can decide on the type of decor and wedding attire.
SIX TO EIGHT MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Book a florist
What is a wedding without flowers? Check out websites and social media platforms to see what appeals to you and choose a florist you trust.
Schedule the fitting of bridesmaid dresses / groomsmen suits
You want your entourage to look and feel fabulous, so having a scheduled try on is always the best idea – and it’s a fun day!
Book a marriage preparation course at your synagogue
You will spend the rest of your life with your spouse. Exploring shared values, ideals, and expectations is the ideal start to a successful and enriching marriage.
Time to start planning your honeymoon
It is difficult to plan a trip abroad now, so get creative and come up with a dream vacation in Australia.
THREE TO FOUR MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Organize wedding cars
There are a ton of services out there so you’re sure to find a provider that suits your style.
Organize gift registers
Look at the price range, determine your tastes, and consider what you need or want for your new life as a married couple. This is a good time to also consider charities that are close to your heart.
Complete your guest list and update postal and email addresses
A few new guests may have crept onto your guest list in the past few months. Keep your venue manager and caterer updated on the number of guests.
Plan your menu with your caterer
Take into account your guests’ allergies and other nutritional needs, as well as your favorite dishes. Most caterers offer menu samples so you can change and customize your menu accordingly.
Choose music with your DJ / band
Complete a playlist and song schedule to set the mood for your celebration.
ONE TO TWO MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Buying wedding rings
Take the time to shop and make sure you organize the perfect fit.
Complete flower arrangements
Make sure you are ready for what your celebration is going to be like. Give your florist time to organize the perfect arrangements and selections of flowers used.
Plan the seating plan
Consider groups of guests who work well together. You want everyone to enjoy each other’s company.
Start writing speeches
It’s time to get the pen down and tell your other speakers to do the same.
Book beauty appointments
From hair and makeup to tanning and nails, book these must-have beauty appointments now to make sure you are in good hands and look your best on your big day.
Get in touch with your photographer and videographer.
These are going to be some of your most cherished moments, so don’t be afraid to share your ideas and let them know your preferences.
ONE TO TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Final fitting of the wedding dress / suit
Make sure you are comfortable and still in love with your chosen outfits. Break in your shoes at home. Nobody wants bubbles on their wedding day. Walk around the house in heels and new dress shoes. Treat yourself to facials, spa treatments, and complete your hair color. Prep your skin and get your hair color on before your big day!
Pick up wedding dresses
In addition to getting the wedding dress, get dresses for your bridesmaids and suits for the groom and groomsmen.
Delegate small tasks on the wedding day
Your bridal shower, friends, and family will be desperate to know how to help. Let them help you relieve some pressure.
Confirm the last numbers.
Contact the event manager and caterers to cover all last minute invitations.
ONE TO TWO DAYS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Take time to visit the mikveh
It is common for a bride to visit a mikveh before her wedding.
Treatment time
Make sure you feel pretty from head to toe. For the bride, it should be time to get her eyebrows, eyelashes, and nails done, and it is time for the groom to visit your hairdresser.
Sleep well!
There’s nothing more important than relaxing and getting a good night’s sleep before your big day.
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