Where elegance meets organization—this is your curated roadmap to “I do.”
Planning your wedding should feel magical—not overwhelming. That’s where a thoughtful, step-by-step wedding planning checklist becomes your best friend. At Greg Reese Events, we bring the kind of structure, aesthetic vision, and vendor orchestration that ensures your wedding day flows as beautifully as it looks. Inspired by design icons like David Tutera, I’ve crafted this checklist to help you plan a wedding that’s not just an event—but an experience.
12+ Months Out: Lay the Foundation
This is your creative awakening. Every detail you plan now sets the tone for your wedding.
Define Your Vision
- Romantic and classic or bold and modern? Gather inspiration from wedding blogs, Pinterest, and bridal magazines.
- Choose your color palette, floral style, and design tone (think: minimalist chic, boho luxe, or timeless ballroom).
- Greg Reese Events offers Custom Theme & Aesthetic Planning to help turn your abstract ideas into tangible mood boards and full design blueprints.
Build Your Wedding Budget
- Itemize everything: venue, catering, entertainment, floral design, fashion, and rentals.
- Plan for contingency (10–15% buffer).
- With our Budget Planning & Management service, we help you track spending, prioritize wisely, and negotiate vendor contracts for real value.
Select Your Wedding Planner
- Not all planners offer the same level of design and logistical mastery. Greg Reese Events is a full-service wedding planning firm focused on elevated design and flawless execution from start to finish.
Reserve Your Venue(s)
- Ceremony and reception can be in the same or separate locations.
- Venues in San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country book quickly—early action is key.
10–12 Months Out: Assemble Your Dream Team
Hire Key Vendors
- Photographer, videographer, floral designer, entertainment, and catering team.
- Need help choosing? Our Vendor Selection & Contract Negotiation service connects you with curated professionals aligned with your aesthetic and budget.
Start Dress Shopping
- Many gowns take 6–8 months to arrive after ordering.
- Schedule appointments at top bridal boutiques, and don’t forget about your veil, shoes, and accessories.
Build Your Guest List
- Start with family, expand with friends, then determine how many guests your venue can accommodate.
- Use platforms like Zola or Aisle Planner to digitally manage RSVPs and addresses.
7–9 Months Out: Design, Details, and Logistics
Send Save-the-Dates
- Especially crucial for destination weddings or peak-season events.
- Include your wedding website, which we can help you design to match your brand.
Choose Your Ceremony Structure
- Religious or secular? Traditional or contemporary?
- Select your officiant and plan readings, rituals, or musical moments.
Register for Wedding Gifts
- Mix price points. Include experiences and cash funds.
- Popular platforms: Zola, Crate & Barrel, Honeyfund.
5–6 Months Out: Finalize the Framework
Order Wedding Invitations
- Custom stationery creates a luxurious first impression.
- Greg Reese Events offers coordination with local and national stationers to craft cohesive print design across invitations, menus, programs, and signage.
Plan the Honeymoon
- Whether it’s Santorini or Sedona, make bookings now.
- Don’t forget to check passport expiration dates!
Choose Attire for the Wedding Party
- Match the formality and season of your celebration.
- Consider custom suits or dresses for a cohesive, editorial look.
3–4 Months Out: Make It Tangible
Finalize the Menu + Cake
- Schedule tastings with your caterer and baker.
- Accommodate dietary restrictions and build out your bar menu.
Schedule Hair & Makeup Trials
- Bring photos, accessories, and your veil.
- Greg Reese Events can coordinate styling timelines for the entire bridal party on the wedding day.
Purchase Wedding Bands
- Allow time for engraving or custom work.
- Pro tip: Try them on at the time of day you’ll wear them—finger size fluctuates!
2 Months Out: Assemble the Experience
Send Invitations
- Mail physical invites 6–8 weeks out.
- Include RSVP card or digital QR code for seamless guest response tracking.
Build Your Seating Chart
- Final headcounts allow us to develop your Reception Layout & Guest Experience Plan with table numbers, escort cards, and meal selections.
Apply for a Marriage License
- In Texas, licenses must be used within 90 days and require a 72-hour waiting period.
1 Month Out: Confirm + Rehearse
Final Vendor Meetings
- Walk-through with venue manager and key vendors to finalize timing, placement, and access.
- Greg Reese Events manages your Timeline Creation & Vendor Communication, so you can breathe easy.
Prepare Guest Favors & Welcome Bags
- Branded packaging adds a professional touch.
- Consider local goods or personalized keepsakes.
Break In Your Shoes
- Trust me—this saves you from blister regret.
Wedding Week: Focus on the Feeling
Pack Your Honeymoon Bags
- Include copies of your itinerary, travel documents, and must-have outfits.
Conduct the Rehearsal
- Practice ceremony flow with your officiant and full wedding party.
- Greg Reese Events provides Bridal Party & Rehearsal Coordination so no one feels lost or rushed.
Get Centered
- Hydrate, rest, and enjoy the moment. You’re about to live a love story that’s been designed down to the last candle flicker.
Planning with Greg Reese Events
From Hill Country weddings to destination events abroad, Greg Reese Events blends modern luxury with timeless charm. If you’re ready to elevate every detail with confidence and creativity, let’s bring your celebration to life—with style worthy of a magazine spread.
Serving San Antonio, Boerne, Alamo Heights, The Pearl District, and beyond.
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