Planning a wedding in Australia can be as daunting as it is exciting. From venues to guests lists, there’s so much to do, and it’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed. But with the right wedding planning checklist, your path to getting married can be a joyful and stress-free journey.
As you embark on your wedding planning journey, remember that each step is a building block towards one of the most memorable days of your life.
At Manor On High, we understand the intricacies of organising a wedding, which is why we’ve created the ultimate wedding planning checklist, tailored specifically for Australian couples. Your dream wedding is not just a plan, it’s a promise.
Your Wedding Planning Timeline
Setting the Foundation
If you find yourself wondering ‘how long does it take to plan a wedding?’, a comfortable place to start is 18 months in advance. However at Manor in High, we’re able to cater to any timeline, from last-minute weddings to master planners.
The first item on your wedding to do list should be to create a budget. Consider the size of your celebration, reception venue prices and more, as each guest adds to the overall costs. Once you understand your financial parameters, your wedding team will be able to work within them.
At Manor on High, we tailor our budgets to encompass all your event requirements, providing a comprehensive package determined by your specific needs, including an all inclusive package for those who want everything to be completely taken care of.
Choosing the Essentials
Settle on a theme and a venue. Whether you want a specific aesthetic or a traditional cultural wedding, Manor on High can accommodate, offering Greek, Albanian, Macedonian, Italian, Indian, Middle Eastern and Lebanese weddings.
Manor on High offers a variety of settings from the intimate Regency Room for smaller gatherings to the Grand Ballroom for grander affairs, coming in a range of prices.
These spaces have unique features to consider as well, including grand pianos, cigar lounges, water features, contemporary artworks and crystal chandeliers. After weighing all your options, make sure your venue aligns with your guest list and personal style.
You’ll also want to connect with caterers and wedding planners, who will be your go-to helping hands when the big day comes.
Booking Key Vendors
A year ahead is a good time to book your key vendors. This should be near the top of your wedding checklist.
In Australia, popular vendors are known to get snatched up quick, especially during prime wedding season, so it’s best to secure your photographers, videographers and entertainment early. You may also want to consider contacting a celebrant and florist.
Wedding Attire and Accessories
Choosing a dress is a big moment for any bride. Beginning browsing early allows for time to find the perfect piece, have it tailored, have bespoke accessories made and ensure the bride’s maids’ dresses match.
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Invitations and Stationery
Now, it’s time to send out the invites. If you’re feeling creative, there are plenty of digital tools that allow you to create your own invites.
However, the easiest way to make sure they look just right is to sit down with a creative studio, where a professional will let you touch the stationary and personalise your designs.
Sending RSVPs and ‘Save the Dates’ is not to be skipped on your wedding to do list in Australia, as it gives your guests notice to keep their calendars open and make sure they can be there for your special day.
Final Preparations
The final months before the wedding are for ironing out the details. Confirm your menu and beverage selections, walk through your chosen venue hire and lock in your seating chart.
If you’re working with hairdressers and makeup artists, do a trial run to make sure everything will be just as you envisioned it when your special day comes.
Day-of Coordination
For ultimate peace of mind, it’s best to have a timeline for the day as well as an emergency kit featuring extra makeup, safety pins, stain remover and a copy of your vows.
Your wedding planner will be your go-to contact on the day, so you should rest assured that they’ve got all the logistics under control.
The last thing on your wedding planning list in Australia should be to relax, be present and enjoy the day.
You’ve worked hard to ensure that every box on your wedding to do list has been checked, and now all you have to do is trust your team to handle anything the day may bring, and focus on your partner and your celebration of love.
Post-Wedding Tasks
You did it. You’re married! Before taking some much-deserved time to relax, return the items you’ve rented and think about ways to remember your special day, such as getting your floral bouquet preserved or keeping the cork of your wedding champagne. Later on, consider sending out ‘Thank You’ notes to your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in a wedding checklist?
Your wedding checklist should cover every little detail: venues, guests, vendors, attire, decor, food and drink and more. The more specific the checklist, the more likely you are to not miss anything.
Once the key items are added to your checklist, you’ll have time to think of other, more outside-of-the-box things that’ll make your wedding unique.
How early should I start planning my wedding?
Each couple has a different wedding timeline. Some prefer to get married as soon as possible, where others want to give themselves a longer lead-up to make sure they can plan everything without having to rush.
Most couples start planning their wedding 12 months in advance, however 18 months is recommended to those with special requests or requirements. At Manor on High, we can work with most timelines.
What are the most important tasks to prioritise?
The top priorities on your wedding to-do list (for couples in Australia) should be to sort out a budget and a guest list. If you have any other wedding non-negotiables, it’s important to make note of these early on in the process so your team can ensure they happen.
Once these details are clear, you’ll have a strong framework to build your dream wedding around.
