First Time Bride's Wedding Planning Checklist

So, you said “YES!” - cue the happy tears, excited phone calls, and a flood of Pinterest boards. Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting (and let’s be real, slightly overwhelming) experiences of your life. But don’t worry, Labella Bridal has your back! We’ve put together a fun and practical wedding planning checklist to help first-time brides stay on track. Let’s dive in!

12+ Months Before: Dream Big & Get Organized

✔ Set Your Budget – Before anything else, figure out what you’re working with! Talk with your fiancé and anyone else contributing.
✔ Create Your Guest List – Jot down your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Remember, guest count affects your budget!
✔ Book Your Venue – Love a rustic barn? A chic ballroom? Lock it in ASAP - venues book fast!
✔ Pick a Wedding Date – Flexibility is great, but having a season in mind will help narrow options.
✔ Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional) – If you want a pro to handle the nitty-gritty, now’s the time to book one!

9-12 Months Before: Dress, Decor & Details

✔ Find Your Dream Dress – Visit Labella Bridal for the ultimate bridal shopping experience! Bring your faves, try on different styles, and say “yes” to the dress.
✔ Book Key Vendors – Snag your photographer, videographer, caterer, and DJ/band before their schedules fill up.
✔ Choose Your Wedding Party – Bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls - who’s in your crew?
✔ Start Your Wedding Website & Registry – Make it easy for guests to get all the details in one place!

6-9 Months Before: Make It Personal ✔ Shop for Bridesmaid Dresses & Tuxes – Give your bridal party plenty of time for fittings and alterations. ✔ Plan Your Décor – Think flowers, centerpieces, signage, and all the little details that bring your vision to life. ✔ Book Hair & Makeup Artists – Trial runs are a must! Find a glam team you love. ✔ Send Save-the-Dates – If you’re having a destination wedding, give guests even more notice. ✔ Start Dress Alterations – Your dream dress should fit like a glove!   3-6 Months Before: The Final Touches ✔ Plan Your Honeymoon – Whether it’s a beach getaway or a mountain retreat, now’s the time to book it! ✔ Order Your Wedding Cake – Taste-testing? Yes, please! ✔ Schedule Your Bridal Shower & Bachelorette Party – Let your bridesmaids work their magic, but give them your must-haves! ✔ Send Out Invitations – Get those RSVPs rolling in!

1-3 Months Before: Almost There!

✔ Apply for Your Marriage License – Check your state’s requirements and deadlines.
✔ Create a Seating Chart – Who sits where? Time to play wedding Tetris!
✔ Book a Final Dress Fitting – You’re almost ready to walk down the aisle!
✔ Break in Your Wedding Shoes – No blisters allowed on the big day.

The Final Weeks: Let’s Get Married!

✔ Confirm with Vendors – Double-check times, locations, and final details.
✔ Pack for Your Honeymoon – Sun hat? Check. Passport? Check.
✔ Get Your Beauty Prep Done – Facials, manicures, spray tans - do what makes you feel amazing!
✔ Write Your Vows – If you’re personalizing your vows, now’s the time to put your heart on paper.
✔ Relax & Enjoy the Moment – You’ve planned an incredible day - now soak it all in!

Ready to start your bridal journey? Book your appointment with us today!