Your Wedding Planning Checklist for the Last Six Weeks
You’ve finally reached the last six weeks of wedding planning before the big day—congratulations! However, there are still a few steps before you’ll be wedding-ready. As wedding planners, we know the overwhelm that accompanies last-minute planning, and we know it’s next to impossible to keep everything on your to-do list straight. That’s why we created this wedding planning checklist for the last six weeks! Follow these steps to a tee, and you’ll be prepared for a dreamy, stress-free wedding day in no time.
Wedding Planning Checklist: Last Six Weeks
5-6 Weeks
As the final few weeks unfold, this is the time to focus on finalizing all of those details! It’s also important to apply for your marriage license now, since you are going to be very busy the week of the wedding, and might not have time to do it. In New Jersey, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued, so you will have to apply at least one week prior to your wedding. But good news! Your license is good for six-months.
Apply for a marriage license.
Set ceremony rehearsal time.
Decide who will read at your ceremony.
Decide who will give a toast/speech at your reception (and welcome dinner, if applicable).
Schedule final meetings with all wedding professionals.
Schedule final payments to all wedding professionals.
Finalize song list with DJ.
Finalize shot list with photographer.
Finalize the number of centerpieces with florist.
Finalize menu and signature drink selection with venue/caterer.
4-5 Weeks
This is the time to focus on the final visual details. Your seating chart is a large part of your wedding reception, and by now, you should have all of your RSVP’s in.
Finalize seating chart/arrangements.
Ensure calligrapher (or person creating signage) has finalized seating.
Finalize floor plan/table numbers with the venue.
Finalize rentals, including seating, linens, and table top decor.
3-4 Weeks
Now it’s time to finish up any smaller day-of details! If you are having your hotels pass out the welcome bags, they will often need you to drop them off a few days before the wedding. So getting them done now will save you the headache the week of your wedding!
Create welcome bags.
Pack the bathroom baskets.
2 Weeks
Pack all decor in labeled boxes, including but not limited to the following:
Guest favors
Champagne flutes
Guest book and pens
Memory table items
Signage
List the contents of each box and where it will go at the venue. This way it’s even easier for your planner to set up, and pack up at the end of the night.
Give finalized timeline to vendors and VIPs.
Pack all gratuity envelopes.
Pack invitation suite/save-the-date and any other items to be included in detail shots. We suggest two sets of invitations so that your photographer can style as needed.
1 Week
Pack an overnight bag (don’t forget your marriage license!).
Drop off the decor at the venue.
Pack extra cash in case of oversights.
Clean engagement rings and wedding bands.
Prepare for inclement weather, if necessary.
Pack your emergency kit. Don’t forget a mini sewing kit, Tide fabric pens, safety pins, and a portable fan if it’s going to be warm.
With this wedding planning checklist, you’re prepared to take on the last six weeks of planning successfully! Are you and your partner headed on a well-deserved honeymoon after the big day? Check out our top five tips for saving money on booking your escape!
