Wedding Checklist
Congrats you booked your dream destination wedding with Travel VIP. Seems like you got months to go but the big day will be here soon.So here’s a little checklist to help you out.
8-10 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
Set your wedding budget. What amount do you have set for the wedding (not including travel)?
Timing is everything. Check with key family and friends before you finalize the date. It’s important that these people are in attendance.
Start seeking inspiration from pictures in magazines and websites to set your style preferences.
Select your attendants, both female, and male. Start thinking about their attire and set your expectations clearly in advance.
Decide what you are going to do with printed materials (invitations, save the dates, menus, programs, etc.) – browse through the Ceci New York gallery if you haven’t already!
Go dress shopping immediately! Make appointments.
Purchase or rent groom’s suit, attire or tuxedo.
Make sure all legal documents are ready and valid – passports, religious requirements, etc.
If you are having a religious wedding, book your Officiant now.
Book your photographer. Also, confirm that your wedding location will allow outside vendors.
Choose a wedding location, including your ceremony, cocktail and wedding reception. Create and health and beauty schedule for yourself (gym, facials, hair, etc.) so you’re in good shape for the big day.
Start working on your wedding website.
Register for gifts; add these details to your website.
Purchase wedding rings.
4-7 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
Choose your flowers (bouquets, boutonnieres, chuppah, flower petals, centerpieces, etc.)
Book your musicians (soloists, bands, DJ, etc.)
Finalize your photographer and videographer (if you haven’t already)
Confirm your color scheme and theme for personalization and décor
Narrow down menu selections for the reception, cocktail reception, etc.
Narrow down bar selections for all events. Consider including a signature drink.
Select your wedding cake, including flavors, style, icing, and décor. Start searching for the perfect cake topper.
Make sure all invitations (including programs and escort cards) are in the works.
2-3 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
Put together a wedding itinerary for your guests.
Finalize flower selections.
Create a list of photography shots you would like the photographer and videographer to capture.
Confirm Officiant, and make sure you have all documentation ready if having a religious ceremony
Finalize dinner and drink menus.
Send out dinner selection requests to your guests, if required by hotel/restaurant.
Update website with any newly planned events.
Send out invitations.
Compile a music playlist of favorites, if you are having a DJ or iPod setlist. If you’re hiring live musicians, start selecting songs as well, or send them sheet music now to learn.
Shop for footwear (keeping in mind all events).
Shop for your “outfits” for the wedding weekend including the rehearsal dinner, good swimwear (keep in mind tan lines for your dress), and any other necessities.
Source and order all wedding favors and bridal party attendant gifts.
Arrange destination excursions before and after the wedding.
Call or email any invited guests who have not sent back their RSVP.
Confirm the number and names of people booking travel arrangements with your Travel Agent. Don’t forget to pre-arrange seat assignment for flights to and from your wedding destination.
Once final guest list is confirmed, set the seating arrangement for reception tables. Buy wedding accessory items that you will need; such as a guest book, pen, flutes for the toast, and cake cutting knife, to take with you.
Start selecting ideal hairstyle photos from magazines and bring with you to give to the on-site hairstylist. Book a trial appointment with your stylist at home and bring a camera with as well.
Schedule a manicure and pedicure at the resort Spa and Salon for the day before the wedding.
Determine readings for the ceremony and write wedding vows.
1 MONTH IN ADVANCE
Confirm all details regarding your wedding, including flowers, cake, video, photography, musicians, and spa appointments.
Meet with the bridal party to confirm and coordinate responsibilities on site.
Schedule final dress fitting along with the bridal party. Make sure to bring correct shoes for final fit.
Assemble wedding favors, gift baskets or bags that you may be taking with you.
Start working on your speech (if you haven’t started already).
Start getting organized with your packing so you can always go out and get anything you still need without feeling overly rushed.
2 WEEKS IN ADVANCE
Prepare a contact information sheet: Provide a trusted friend or relative that is not going with you to your wedding with the emergency contact information sheet. This should include all of the resort’s information. Once you arrive, be sure to advise this person with your room number.
Have your hair cut and dyed.
Do a test run of your makeup so you have everything with you that you will need and so that you will be comfortable with the outcome.
Pick up your wedding dress and obtain a secure bag for travel.
Make sure all documents required for your wedding are packed and ready to go. For example Passports, travel documents, birth certificates, etc. Make sure you carry all of these documents in your carry-on luggage. Do not check any important paperwork.
1 WEEK IN ADVANCE
Make sure you have enough cash for specific vendors.
Also good to have a few bills for tipping.
DAY BEFORE TRAVEL
Make sure everything is printed out.
DAY BEFORE THE WEDDING
Enjoy your manicure and pedicure (and any other appointments) at the resort’s spa and salon.
Have a trial run for your hair and makeup with the stylist doing your beauty on site.
Have your wedding dress pressed and staged for dressing, if necessary.
Groom should give best man the bride’s wedding band.
Drink lots of water and eat lots of fruit so that your skin will look radiant for your special day!
Go to sleep early. A well-rested bride is a happy bride!
DAY OF THE WEDDING
Eat breakfast.
Have hair and make-up done?
Get a message if you have time. Maybe beachside, if possible, to relax and be mindful of the big day ahead.
Spend some quality time with your immediate family before your wedding as well as some girl time for your bridal party.
Get dressed.
Relax, say “I do” and live happily ever after.
Savor the experience! When it’s over, it’s back to normal life, so be mindful of how wonderful today is and how lucky you are.
WHEN YOU RETURN HOME FROM THE WEDDING
Send thank you notes to all family and friends