Event preparation timeline

Backwards from the event date: when to book venue, host, photographer, send invitations

Tasks

Key principle: popular venues and vendors book 6–12 months out. The closer the date, the pricier and scarcer the options.

  • 28 April 2026Set budget & format, draft guest listdeadline has passed — act now!
  • 2 July 2026Book the venuedeadline has passed — act now!
  • 31 August 2026Host, photographer, videodeadline has passed — act now!
  • 30 October 2026Dress/suit, decorator, florist
  • 29 December 2026Cake, catering, music
  • 28 January 2027Send invitations
  • 27 February 2027Fittings, dance rehearsal, script details
  • 29 March 2027Final guest count, seating plan
  • 14 April 2027Confirm all vendors, balance payments
  • 21 April 2027Day timeline, ceremony rehearsal
  • 26 April 2027Final call: logistics, backup plans
  • 28 April 2027EVENT DAY