Just because it's not your first time down the asile doesn't meaning that there's any less planning involved! We've compiled a must-read checklist to get you ready for your walk down the aisle.
12 OR MORE MONTHS BEFORE:
Decide on your wedding size and start drawing up your guest list. If you have children, ask them to be part of your wedding party -- a great way to involve them in your union. Start searching for ceremony and reception sites. Draw up a budget . 8-10 MONTHS BEFORE:
Start shopping for your dress. If you'll be wearing something that requires few alterations or doesn't need to be ordered, you can wait until six months before. Book a photographer and videographer. If your wedding will be casual, have relatives bring their own cameras and video equipment. Book your florist. Envision the entertainment. Will you book a band or DJ? Full orchestra or quartet? Perhaps your uncle's Polka band? 6-8 MONTHS BEFORE
Decide on a menu. For an informal affair, have a barbecue or luncheon at "your" restaurant. Let your attendants pick their own dresses -- you choose the color. Start planning your honeymoon (and arrange a babysitter for the kids). Start working on a song list. For a backyard bash, make a tape of your favorites. 4-6 MONTHS BEFORE
Attend pre-wedding counseling (if needed). Start shopping for invitations (including children in the wording is a thoughtful touch). Start shopping for wedding rings. Choose the groom's attire -- it can be as casual as chinos and a golf shirt or as formal as a tux. 3 MONTHS BEFORE
Hire wedding day transportation. Order wedding rings (inscribe your names and your children's names on the inside). Order family medallions (placed around the neck of each child during the ceremony to symbolize the creation of a new family). Finalize your guest list. Attend parties in your honor (have a joint shower with a cool theme like wine tasting!). 2 MONTHS BEFORE
Mail invitations. Writing your own vows? Start now. 1 MONTH BEFORE
Make last-minute adjustments to flowers and music. Make wedding programs detailing how you met and who your families are. Have final dress fittings if necessary -- make sure your attendants do this, too! TWO WEEKS AND COUNTING
Apply for a marriage license in the town where you'll wed. Bride, get one last haircut or trim before the big day. Make a list of songs you want to play and songs you can't bear to hear. Call guests who haven't returned their RSVPs. 1 WEEK BEFORE
Give caterers a final head count. Make a seating chart (consider sitting with the kids rather than with your attendants). Confirm all arrangements. 2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Get a manicure (If either of you has a daughter, take her, too). Reconfirm your flower order (where and when they will be delivered). Write checks for final balances. Enlist someone to return rented supplies after the wedding. Assign someone the task of dealing with questions or problems during the party. Make sure all professionals have an emergency phone number to call you on wedding day. Make sure your dress is pressed and ready to go; ditto for the groom's attire. NIGHT BEFORE
Attend the rehearsal dinner. Get a good night's sleep! DAY OF
Primp. Relax. Enjoy yourselves!
12 OR MORE MONTHS BEFORE:
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