How Long Does Planning a Wedding *Really* Take?

Photographer: The Hello Photography

Planning a wedding is no easy feat - between finding your perfect venue, selecting your ideal vendors, and of course finalizing the guest list (and everything in between), it can seem like the wedding planning process goes on for years.

Thankfully, that doesn’t have to be the case thanks to some helpful tips to keep the wedding planning process smooth and enjoyable.

When to Start Planning

The time it takes to plan a wedding really depends on a few key factors, like the size of the wedding, the complexity of the details, and, of course, how much help you have. 

Generally, most couples start planning anywhere from 12 to 18 months in advance. This time frame allows you to secure popular venues and vendors, which can book up quickly.

Breaking the Planning Process into Phases

The key to keeping wedding planning manageable & moving, is to break it into phases. Early on, it's crucial to set a budget, as this will guide almost every decision you make. 

Next, you'll want to think about your guest list and the overall vibe you want for the big day—these choices can affect everything from venue selection to catering options.

Speaking of venue selection, picking your wedding venue and date is usually at the top of the list. Once that’s done, you can move on to booking key vendors like photographers, caterers, and florists. These are often the people who get booked up the fastest, so it’s wise to reach out to them as soon as possible.

As the planning progresses, there are several other tasks to tackle, such as choosing your wedding party, sending out save-the-dates, and finalizing the details with vendors. About six months before the wedding, it's a good time to start thinking about attire—like wedding dresses and suits—and to schedule fittings.

Keep Track of Timelines

A common thing that slows the wedding planning process is not keeping track of timelines. Having a wedding planning checklist can be a lifesaver. It can help ensure that you don’t overlook any details and keep stress levels in check. Plus, isn’t it so satisfying to check things off as you go!?

Elopements/Micro-Weddings

We can’t forget about our elopement/micro-wedding couples! If you're planning a smaller wedding, such as an elopement or a micro-wedding, you might not need as much time. In fact, some couples have successfully planned these types of weddings in just a few months. It’s all about what feels right for you and your partner.

The Home Stretch

In the final stretch leading up to the big day, it’s imperative to stay organized and keep communication open with everyone involved. This helps avoid last-minute chaos and makes sure everyone knows what’s happening.

Although yes, wedding planning is stressful - it can also be a fun and rewarding experience! Especially when approached with a clear timeline and a positive attitude. So, whether you’re a detail-oriented planner or someone who prefers to take it as it comes, remember to enjoy the journey—after all, it’s about celebrating love!

Ready to start the wedding planning process & find your perfect wedding venue? Schedule a tour of Mill Pond Estate today!