5. Wedding Planning Timeline 101: What to Do at 18, 12, 6 Months and Beyond

You’re engaged—congratulations! You’ve got your budget, your vision, and a Pinterest board that’s getting out of hand. But now the big question: what do you actually do first? Because the biggest cause of wedding stress isn’t the money—it’s not knowing what to do when.

Today, I’m breaking down exactly what needs to happen at 18 months, 12 months, 6 months, and right up to the final week—straight from my Leeann Cook 12–18 Month Wedding Planner Checklist.

This is your roadmap to a calm, confident, well-organised wedding—without the last-minute panic.

Phase 1: 12–18 Months Before the Wedding — The Foundation

(Lock In the Big Decisions)

This is your foundation phase—where you set the tone for everything that follows.

Pro tip: If you’re planning a Saturday wedding in Melbourne during peak season, start at least 18 months out.

Now’s also the time to:

• Research and book your venue (and any necessary permits).

• Research and book your celebrant (hi, that’s me!).

• Start a Pinterest or inspiration board.

• Look into wedding insurance—it’s not glamorous, but it’s smart.

• Hire a wedding planner if you’d like professional help.

Then, start locking in your creative team:

• Choose your bridal party.

• Shop for wedding attire.

• Book your photographer, videographer, florist, caterer, and entertainment (band or DJ).

• Don’t forget your cake maker—yes, they book out too!

Phase 2: 9–12 Months Before — The Creative Build

Lock in People & Style

You’ve got your foundations—now let’s make it personal.

At this stage:

• Sign your NOIM (Notice of Intended Marriage) with your celebrant—that’s your legal paperwork, and I help guide you through it.

• Create your wedding website—great for RSVPs and info for guests.

• Book hair and makeup artists—including trial dates.

• Book transport—think bridal cars, buses, or Ubers.

• Research accommodation for guests and book your own wedding night stay.

• Begin honeymoon planning—flights, resorts, or just that dream Airbnb.

Phase 3: 6–9 Months Before — The Details & Design

Refine and Confirm

Now it’s all about refining the experience:

• Finalise your guest list.

• Send save-the-dates.

• Order your wedding rings.

• Schedule your caterer tasting (yum!).

• Plan your ceremony details with your celebrant—vows, readings, and rituals.

• Organise your bridal shower, bucks or hens events.

• Design and order invitations.

• Schedule your dress fittings.

Phase 4: 4–6 Months Before — The Polishing Phase

Pull It All Together

It’s coming together beautifully—now it’s time to polish the details.

• Book your rehearsal date with your ceremony venue.

• Send invitations.

• Book pre-wedding beauty appointments.

• Organise wedding favours (or DIY them).

• Finalise wedding party attire and accessories.

• Plan your wedding day timeline—or reach out to me; I’ve got templates you can use!

Phase 5: 2–3 Months Before — The Final Countdown

Confirm Everything

You’re so close!

• Follow up RSVPs and finalise your seating plan.

• Confirm all vendors and pay any remaining balances.

• Order your wedding rings (if you haven’t already).

• Break in your wedding shoes—yes, both of you!

• Delegate wedding day tasks—you shouldn’t have to answer your phone that morning.

Phase 6: 1 Month to 1 Week Before — The Finish Line

Breathe & Enjoy

Now it’s all about fine-tuning and relaxing.

• Final dress and suit fittings.

• Confirm guest numbers with your caterer or venue.

• Print your wedding day schedule and give copies to vendors.

• Prepare your emergency kit (bobby pins, tissues, bandaids—trust me).

• Confirm your music playlist with your DJ or band.

• Have your final rehearsal—with me, of course.

Then… breathe. You did it.

Your Planning Motto: Progress, Not Perfection

Take it one phase at a time. If you’ve locked in your venue and your celebrant, you’re already ahead of the game. You don’t need perfection—you need progress.

If this helped you map out your wedding timeline, grab your free wedding budget planner at leeanncook.com/weddingplanner—it’s designed to pair perfectly with this checklist.

Until next time—plan with heart, not just checklists. 💕

Leeann Cook

Melbourne Civil Celebrant / Online Wedding Planner

Get in touch.