So You’re Getting Married! – Now What? | Houston Wedding Photographer | Houston, TX

We want to help you break down how to plan your wedding. The tough stuff, the nitty gritty details that will make your wedding day the special event that you've always dreamed it would be.

First take a deep breath. *In* and *out* Better? Alright so we've compiled a list of what you need to do between the time you say "Yes!" until you say "I Do"

12 months out is usually a good time to begin your preparations.

Buy a planner and calendar - This is essential for keeping you organized
Figure out your budget
Select a date
Start collecting inspiration
Choose a color palette
Begin your search for a venue
Select your wedding party
Research vendors. Florist, Caterer, Officiant, Band or DJ, Videographer, and of course photographer!
Engagement photos

Between 12 months and 9 months you need to-

Book the venue
Hire your vendors
Discuss the menu with your caterer
Select and purchase your wedding dress
Register for gifts
Research and reserve accomodations for out-of-town guests
Send out 'Save the Dates'
Begin selecting bridesmaid dresses
Launch your wedding website
Create Wedding hashtag for social media

Between your 9 and 6 month marker you will want to-

Go to your first fitting, preferably with your Maid of Honor
Order the bridesmaid dresses and schedule fittings
Begin planning the Honeymoon
Discuss Groomsmen, flower girl, and ring bearer attire
Begin shopping around for your wedding rings
Shop for and design your invitations

Around the 6 month mark your wedding will actually seem like it's moulding into that perfect dream day! Just a few more details to hammer out

Attend pre-wedding counsel, if required
Select and order your cake
Schedule hair and makeup artists
Discuss music with your band or DJ
Choose floral arrangements with your florist
Check on your wedding invitations
Rent or purchase Groom and Groomsmen attire
Compose a Wedding Day timeline

We're approaching the Home Stretch! Between 4 and 2 months-

Mail out your invitations
Bride and Groom FINAL fittings
Arrange for bridal and Groom attire pickup/delivery
Check and confirm with all vendors
Write your vows, if desired
Do a hair and makeup trial
Purchase any wedding gifts for parents and/or wedding party
Arrange Wedding Day transportation
Choose processional and reception music
Purchase Wedding rings

With only one month left, your BIG day is almost completely arranged!

Apply for a marriage license
Write out Thank You notes as you recieve gifts
Make any last minute adjustments with your vendors
Confirm music selection with Band or DJ
Take dance lessons, if desired
Check RSVPs, follow up with any guests that haven't yet responded
Schedule Mani/pedi for day before your wedding

2 weeks prior to the Ceremony the finishing touches are being put into motion

Last prewedding haircut and color for Bride
Confirm floral delivery
Give "Must-Have" list of shots to Photographer
Finalize seating chart
Break in your shoes
Enjoy Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties
Scehdule a spa day for 2-3 days before the ceremony

7 days before the big "I DO"

Final check in with all your vendors
Contact Venue manager to coordinate vendor deliveries and set up times
Last prewedding haircut for Groom
Pack for the Honeymoon
Pick up your Wedding Dress
Delegate any small Wedding Day tasks you can to friends and family

2-3 day before

Pick up Groom's formalwear
Have Best Man ensure all Groomsmen pick up their attire
Recomfirm with vendors of drop-off/set-up times at Venue and provide an emergency contact number
Write out any final checks for your vendors
Determine Wedding party poistions during the ceremony and processional/recessional party order
Enjoy your spa day, and relax

The Wedding Day has FINALLY arrived!