The Wedding Reception ChecklistA wedding reception checklist is essential to ensure that you do not forget what has to be done and when. That being said, it should be noted that almost every aspect of a wedding can be accomplished in less than two months. Not that I recommend waiting until the last minute, but you certainly don't have to be a slave to someone else's timetable. Sometimes a wedding reception checklist can strike terror in the hearts of even the most courageous couples.
The way that I have set up this wedding checklist is that you can go through the list and click on the links to easily find out any further information you might need about any of the items. You will be taken to pages that go into more detail to help you along in your planning. If you would like to see a more detailed wedding checklist, please
click here to go to the detailed Wedding Planning Checklist.
Skip to "Wedding Checklist Six Months or More Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist Four to Six Months Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist Two to Three Months Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist One Month Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist Two Weeks Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist One Week Ahead" Skip to "Wedding Checklist The Day Before" Skip to "Wedding Checklist On The Day Of" I would advise you to attend to certain details while going through this wedding reception checklist sooner rather than later.In fact, even before you finalize the date of your wedding, you should get a jump on aspects that are hard to find, in great demand, or simply those that take along time to accomplish. Generally speaking, these include (but might not be limited to): Location: since you're not the only two people getting married, if you want to get married in high season at a highly desirable spot, you might have to book up to a year in advance. Band: just like your location, good bands and good DJs require that you book them several months in advance. Gown: the hunt for the perfect wedding dress is unpredictable, and the source of much pre-wedding anxiety and should be looked into rather early on your wedding reception checklist. Even if you find one the first time you go shopping, having the gown shipped and altered could make the process long. Then, of course, you have to get the veil, shoes, bra and anything else you might require to finish the look. Invitations: invitations are traditionally mailed six weeks before the wedding, but I suggest eight weeks, just in case. If you're inviting international guests, they should receive their invitations 10 weeks ahead of the time.
Almost all out-of-town guests need to take off extra time from work or make special arrangements to attend; either you can send them invitations early or send them a card, alerting them to "save the date" six months to a year in advance, if possible. The following is a wedding reception checklist based on a wedding that will take place six months or more away. You can tick off each item when it has been organized, and always confirm all your arrangements in writing, keeping copies of the letters for your own file. Check that you are keeping to your budget. Remember, if you have less than six months to plan your wedding, don't panic. Just start as soon as possible.
Wedding Reception Checklist Six Months or More AheadChoose The Date: Decide on what style or theme of wedding you would like. If you are planning a wedding during the busy season, discuss those alternative dates and try to be flexible as you may not be able to have your first choice of date. You should also arrange to see your minister, priest, rabbi or registrar in order to book the ceremony.Draw Up the Guest List: Work out how many guess you want to invite. It is very important to understand, though, that limiting your guest list is the biggest factor in saving money. If you wish to include many people on your guest list, but still keep costs down, consider planning your ceremony and reception at a time when lighter fare (brunch or lunch)can be served. You will also have to take into account how many guests each set of parents can invite and how many each of you can include as well.
Hire a Wedding Consultant: If your wedding is small or easily planned, you probably won't need a wedding consultant. However, if you want a large or elaborate wedding or your engagement is too short to provide adequate planning time, you will probably benefit from having help. If you and your partner have high-pressure careers that won't leave enough time for attending to the details shown on the wedding reception checklist, or if you simply want professional assistance with your wedding, then hiring a wedding planner could be the right thing for you. Arrange the Reception: Visit venues and hotels. If you are planning to reception in a marquee, arrange for at least three estimates from reputable marquee companies. Wedding Decorations: While you are visiting venues for your wedding and wedding reception, now is the time to be planning the decorations you will need. You can go to Wedding Decorations to get a listing of all the kinds of supplies that you can choose from. Plan Your Wedding Reception Food: The cost of the food and drinks served will depend entirely on the budget you have set. If you are using a hotel or civil venue, they may have deals and include pre-lunch or dinner drinks, canapés, three course dinner, wines, soft drinks, wedding cake, a toast master and sometimes music. In most cases caterers will provide sample menus. Ask them to include all the elements - food, service, hire of equipment, drinks, ice, etc. Don't forget to give timings. A good caterer will arrange for a tasting; this is usually held at their offices. Decide whether the caterer or florist will provide flowers for the tables. Choosing Your Wedding Flowers: Arrange to see florists who understand the style you like. Sometimes it is a good idea to get a few pictures together of what kind of style you are looking for. When you make your choice, confirm immediately in writing as good floral decorators are in great demand. Book Your Photographer: Discuss with your photographer the style you would like. Ask what the price includes and the cost of prints. This also applies if you wish to have your wedding video. Check that the Minister or registrar will allow photos to be taken or the video recorded during the ceremony and what the rules are. The Wedding Dress: Order your dress, shoes, gloves, veil and accessories. Start to think about any special lingerie, stockings or other hair accessories that your dress design will require. Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Start to think about who you would like and start asking. Hair and Makeup: Book your hairdresser and makeup artist. Entertainment: Arrange to see any bands are musicians you would like and book them as soon as you've made your choice. Honeymoon: Plan and book your honeymoon. If you are marrying in the height of the holiday season, have some alternative destinations. If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist Four to Six Months Ahead:The Ceremony: If you are marrying in a church or synagogue, arrange to see the minister to discuss the service, music and readings.Invitations and Service Sheets: Visit printers to choose your style of invitations. If you wish to have the invitations specially designed, start planning now. Also order place cards, seating cards, menus, service sheets, and favors. Wedding Gift List: Make your lists and register with your chosen outlets. Wedding Cake: Choose the style and flavor of cake and place your order. Transportation: Arrange any necessary transportation. Wedding Rings: Order or purchase wedding rings. Wedding Night: If you plan to stay in a local hotel for your wedding night, now is the time to make your choice and book the room. Groom's Attire and Going Away Outfits: Purchase or reserve the groom's outfit. Arrange best man's outfit and other male members of the bridal party. Start looking for the bride's going away outfit. Attendant's Gifts: Choose thank you gifts for your attendance and best man. If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist Two to Three Months Ahead:Invitations: Send out invitations at least eight weeks before the day. Make a list of acceptances, refusals and any special requests. Confirm any hotel arrangements for guests who require your accommodation.Hair and Make-up: Make a separate appointment with your chosen hairdresser in beautician to discuss your requirements. Gifts for the Bride and Groom: Choose presence for each other and for parents of both parties. If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist One Month Ahead:Presents: Start sending thank you notes as gifts arrive.Wedding Announcement: Send wedding announcement to your chosen paper. Marriage License: Obtain the license. If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist Two Weeks Ahead:Seating Plan: This a probably the most difficult thing to arrange, so start to think about it. Write seating plan and place cards.Wedding Dress and Shoes: Arrange for final fitting. Most brides lose weight before the wedding day, so if you feel that you may lose a few more pounds, tell your designer or fitter. I do think, however, that it is better to err on the larger side (meaning that it is much easier to take in than to let out, should pre-wedding jitters lead to midnight binge snacking!) Start to break in the shoes at home. A good point to make here, is to make sure your shoes are comfortable. Believe me, after a whole day on your feet, you'll wish you didn't pick shoes with stiletto heels. On my wedding day, I chose wonderful, white, satin ballerina flats, and I was still kickin' up my heels at midnight. Another good idea concerning shoes, would be to get them stretched by a local shoemaker or cobbler, if you are concerned about the fit. Speeches and Toasts: Start to write speeches. Caterer and/or Venue: Confirm final numbers. Beauty Treatments: Have a facial and a massage to relax, have a trial run with your head dress and makeup. Rehearsal: Confirm rehearsal and wedding day plans with your officiant and attendants. You should also confirm the rehearsal dinner arrangements. If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist One Week Ahead:Wedding Dress: Pick up your dress or have it delivered. Try on your entire and outfit including headdress, underwear and choose, but don't forget to leave one item off - it's considered unlucky to try on the whole outfit before the day (if you believe in that kind of thing).Honeymoon: Start packing for your honeymoon. I know that if there is one thing you are looking forward to doing from this wedding reception checklist, this is it! If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist The Day Before:Rehearsal: Have your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.Wedding Decorations: Check with your location venue as to when you can actually come in to decorate. Beauty: Have a manicure and pedicure. Think this is silly? Think about all the people who will want to see your rings on your wedding day. What will your nails look like? If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
Wedding Reception Checklist On The Day Of:Presents: Give presents to your parents and bridal party with a note of thanks for all their help and support.Beauty: Have a relaxing massage if possible. Food: Arrange to have a light snack and maybe just one glass of champagne (if you need it!). It's important that you have something to eat before the wedding. It's going to be one long day but just think...you are almost through this wedding reception checklist! Timing: Allow at least two hours for hair and makeup. 30 to 45 minutes for dressing and 30 minutes for photos at home. Don't forget to have fun!! If you would like to see a more detailed list for this time period please go to the Wedding Planner Checklist
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