The Perfect Wedding Planning Timeline: When to Book Every Key Supplier
One of the questions I’m asked most often is:
“When should we book everything?”
The honest answer?
It depends entirely on how much time you have before your wedding day.
For a single-day wedding, the average planning window previously was 12-18 months, however, since COVID there is no average.
In my experience, organise it when it's convenient for you and within the time frame that works.
However, I do recommend giving yourself about a year to plan as this allows you to secure your dream venue, your preferred suppliers, and most importantly enjoy the process rather than rush it.
I want to emphasise to anyone reading who has less time - don’t worry - everything is possible and you will be able to find great suppliers to work with! You can plan a wedding in a week, everything is possible!
For this guide, I am basing our recommended timeline on having 12+ months to plan which gives you the best balance of choice, creativity and calm.
Below is a clear snapshot of what to book, and when:
Photography by Jacob and Pauline
12-14 Months Before:
This stage is about clarity and direction.
1. Confirm Your Budget
Before anything else, establish a realistic overall budget and decide how it will be allocated. This becomes your compass for every decision that follows.
Be honest about your priorities. Is it food? Design? Photography? Entertainment? Your budget should reflect what matters most to you.
2. Book Your Planner (If You’d Like One)
If you’re considering a planner book early.
The right planner will:
Help refine your vision
Guide your budget allocation
Negotiate contracts
Save you time (and often money)
Introduce you to trusted suppliers
Most established planners only take on a limited number of weddings each year, so early enquiries are essential.
Some planners offer a variety of packages, so think about how much time you will have during your planning journey to source suppliers, chase quotes etc. Wedding Planning is quite admin heavy.
3. Secure Your Venue & Caterer
Your venue sets the tone for everything.
Once the venue is confirmed, your date becomes locked in and you can move forward with confidence.
If catering isn’t included, this should be secured at the same time. Great caterers book quickly, especially for peak season Saturdays.
10-12 Months Before:
Now the exciting creative layers begin!
4. Choose Your Wedding Dress
Many bridal designers require 6-9 months for ordering and alterations.
Even if your wedding feels “far away,” begin early. It allows you to:
Explore styles calmly
Avoid rush fees
Enjoy the experience
Many bridal shops can really convey the urgency of booking your dress to allow time for it to be made or altered. Choose your dress in the time that fits you and it has to be the right dress for you! There will always be solutions to everything once you know which dress is right for you!
5. Secure Your Photographer & Videographer
You are not just booking someone with a camera, you are choosing how your wedding will be remembered.
Photographers and videographers often take on a limited number of weddings per season to protect quality. If you love someone’s style, don’t wait.
Photo credit Igor Demba
Photo credit Ricky Paul Flowers
8-10 Months Before:
6. Book Your Florist & Entertainment
These two suppliers shape the atmosphere more than almost anything else.
Your florist defines the visual language of your day.
Your entertainment sets the emotional energy.
Live bands, DJs and sought-after florists can get booked out 12+ months in advance, especially in London and destination locations.
6-8 Months Before:
7. Book Hair & Makeup
Top artists, especially those experienced with luxury venues or destination weddings, are in high demand.
Early booking allows:
Trial appointments
Skin preparation plans
Calm scheduling for the morning of the wedding
Why Early Booking Matters
Planning with 12+ months gives you more time to consider the below points:
First choice of venue and date
Access to your preferred suppliers
Time to design thoughtfully
Space to enjoy the engagement period
Our Wedding Planning Checklist
To support our couples, we have created a comprehensive planning Checklist covering:
Budget allocation guidance
Supplier booking timeline
Design milestones
Styling & production deadlines
Guest experience planning
Final month run-through schedule
It is designed to make planning feel clear and structured, not overwhelming and you can apply the steps to any time frame.
If you would like a copy, simply get in touch.
The Final Word
Planning a wedding is about creating something meaningful, beautiful and intentional that truly reflects you and your partner. We would love to help you with the planning, we offer a variety of services: partial, on the day and full planning so get in touch to find out more about your planning options!
Wishing you a special planning journey. Please get in touch here!
Emma x
