We have our venue! So… what’s next? Luckily, Pinterest is here to guide me. According to multiple infographics, my timeline over the next few months looks something like this:
12 Months
Book a Venue
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT, GOT THE CONTRACT SIGNED! But in all seriousness, if you’re looking to get married in Toronto, I’d suggest booking your venue as soon as possible (read: over a year in advance, especially if you want a summer wedding).
Draft Guest List
Peter and I drafted a guest list before we started looking at venues. It's pretty self explanatory -- you should base your venue choice on your wedding guest numbers (and budget, of course!)
Register
Is it really necessary to register a year in advance? I have no idea! I've never done this before. I'm also not sure if we'll register, period. We've lived together for over 6 years and already own a lot of stuff we need.
10 Months
Find Someone To Marry You
Otherwise known as an officiant. Is this really necessary? Are officiants in that high demand? 10 months seems awfully early to seek one out. I figure a lot of people get married at a church, which frees up other officiants.
Choose Wedding Vendors
This timeline I get, especially if you're looking at a summer wedding. Florists, photographers, and hair stylists are in high demand. Even if you're relying on the kindness of friends, you'll want to make sure they're available to help out.
Take Engagement Photos
Not sure how I feel about engagement photo shoots. More on this in a future blog post.
8 Months
Order a Dress
That is, if you're using a traditional bridal store. According to salespeople, it takes a few months for the dress to be made/ordered/shipped, and then a few months for the alterations. I'm going to check out The Brides' Project before I look at more traditional wedding stores.
Block Reserve Hotel Rooms
Is this right? 8 months in advance? Again, I think if you're looking at a summer wedding this makes sense, but a November one? Nah.
6 Months
Send Save the Dates
Again, 6 months seems awfully early. Maybe 5? We are doing everything virtually, so the save the date will be an email (or Youtube video, if I get my act together by then).
Create Wedding Website
Easy to do, especially if you use Squarespace!
4 Months
Book Rehearsal Dinner
Not sure if we'll have a rehearsal dinner. Instead, we'll have a dinner for out of town guests at Peter's parents place.
Confirm vendors
Shouldn't your vendors already be confirmed if you've booked them months prior? I guess a follow up email never hurt anyone.
3 Months
Send Invitations
Our invites will be virtual, so this timeline is totally cool with us.
Bridal Shower
Sure! Sounds fun.
1 Month
Bachelorette Party
This will give everyone's liver a month to recover. Sounds good to me.
And that's a wedding timeline according to Pinterest! Anything you think they missed? Please let me know if the comments section.