Checklist - 3 to 1 months before

Wedding invitations should be sent out at this point and a list should be kept of any acceptances as well as refusals. Once all of these have been received a reception seating plan can be made, allowing for any changes. A rehearsal time should be set with the minister or registrar and the wedding party should be informed of this.

Prices should be confirmed with suppliers and the delivery time and arrival time checked. At this point any outstanding amounts should be paid to the suppliers.

The bride should meet with the hair and make-up stylists to decide on a style for the bride and bridesmaids and final dress fittings should occur.

The couple need to decide on a first dance and should consider practicing. They should make a list of favourite songs for the DJ or band.

Copies of the readings should be sent to the readers so they can practice.

Clothes and accessories for the honeymoon should be purchased and any honeymoon currency/travellers’ cheques organised. At this point the couple should reconfirm their honeymoon details. They should confirm that their visas, passports and jabs are all up to date.

Any name and address changes should be handled at this point and the full bridal outfit should be tried on, including jewellery and lingerie. The bride should practice walking in shoes.

The wedding rings should be collected and engraved if necessary and the engagement ring should be polished. Any deliveries on or before the day need to be finalised and someone needs to be available to deal with this at the time.

A safe storage at the reception venue should be arranged for any presents given on the day and reception staff at the venue should be informed about saving flowers after the reception. Caterers should be informed of any dietary requirements in advance.

Politely chase any forgetful guests for RSVP’s and buy a guest book or photo album for guests to sign.

The hen and stag parties should then take place, after which any domestic arrangements for the honeymoon should be organised such as pets, house-sitting and so on.