The Ultimate Wedding Checklist: Your Timeline for a Stress-Free Summer Wedding
Congratulations! You’re getting married this summer, and the countdown is officially on. Whether you’re tying the knot in a grand Irish castle, a scenic countryside venue, or an intimate coastal setting, there’s a lot to organise in the final months leading up to the big day.
To help you stay on track, we’ve put together the ultimate wedding planning timeline, covering everything from final vendor payments to last-minute beauty treatments. Follow this guide to ensure everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying your special day.
3–4 Months Before the Wedding
• Send Out Invitations – If you haven’t already, now is the time to send invitations. Give guests plenty of notice, especially those travelling from abroad.
• Arrange Dress Fittings – Ensure your wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, and suits are being altered if needed.
• Book Hair and Makeup Trials – Test out different styles to see what suits you best. Bring inspiration photos and be clear about your vision.
• Confirm Accommodation – If you’ve reserved a hotel block for guests, confirm details with the hotel and remind guests to book.
• Plan the Honeymoon – Ensure your passports are valid, book any last-minute accommodation, and start planning your honeymoon wardrobe.
• Decide on Ceremony Details – Meet with your celebrant, priest, or registrar to finalise readings, music, and any special traditions.
2 Months Before the Wedding
• Confirm Guest Numbers – Ask guests to RSVP (if they haven’t already) and follow up with anyone who hasn’t responded.
• Create the Seating Plan – Once RSVPs are in, start organising your seating plan. Be mindful of family dynamics and group guests strategically.
• Order Wedding Favours – If you’re giving favours, order them now to avoid any last-minute stress.
• Sort Transport – Arrange transportation for you, your wedding party, and any guests who may need it.
• Finalise Music Choices – Confirm playlists or song choices with your DJ, band, or ceremony musicians.
1 Month Before the Wedding
• Pay Final Vendor Balances – Most vendors will require final payment around this time. Ensure you budget for:
• Venue (€2,000–€10,000+ depending on location and package)
• Catering (€50–€150 per person)
• Photographer/Videographer (€1,500–€4,000)
• Band/DJ (€1,000–€3,000)
• Flowers (€500–€3,000)
• Transport (€300–€1,500)
• Final Dress and Suit Fittings – Ensure all adjustments are completed.
• Create a Wedding Day Timeline – Share this with your vendors, bridal party, and anyone involved in the day’s logistics.
• Write Your Vows – If writing your own, now’s the time to perfect them.
• Confirm Menu with Caterer – Ensure all dietary requirements are accounted for.
• Print Wedding Stationery – This includes seating charts, place cards, and order of service booklets.
2 Weeks Before the Wedding
• Confirm Final Guest Count – Send this to your venue and caterer.
• Have a Hair and Beauty Prep Week – Book any facials, waxing, or skincare treatments. Avoid last-minute new treatments to prevent reactions.
• Break in Your Wedding Shoes – Wear them around the house to avoid blisters on the day.
• Delegate Tasks – Assign someone to handle gifts, oversee the guestbook, or manage any last-minute surprises.
• Pack for the Honeymoon – If heading off straight after the wedding, start packing now.
1 Week Before the Wedding
• Confirm All Bookings – Double-check arrangements with all vendors.
• Rehearse the Ceremony – If possible, run through the ceremony with your bridal party.
• Prepare Emergency Kit – Include essentials like painkillers, plasters, a sewing kit, and tissues.
• Get Your WeddingGreen Folder – Ensure all legal documents are sorted.
The Day Before the Wedding
• Relax and Enjoy! – Spend time with loved ones, get a good night’s sleep, and trust that all your planning has paid off.
Now, all that’s left to do is walk down the aisle and soak in every magical moment. Wishing you a beautiful Irish wedding and a lifetime of happiness!
Drop us an email and we will send out the PDF printable checklist.