12-9 Months Before
- Set your budget — Be honest about what you can spend. Decide who's contributing and what the priorities are.
- Choose your wedding date — Consider weather, venue availability, and religious holidays (Ramadan, Eid, etc.).
- Book your venue — Popular banquet halls book 12+ months out, especially for Saturday evenings.
- Start your guest list — Even a rough count helps with venue size and catering estimates.
- Hire a photographer/videographer — The best ones book up fast.
- Choose your wedding party — Bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honor, best man.
8-6 Months Before
- Book your caterer — Schedule tastings. Consider dietary restrictions (halal, vegetarian, etc.).
- Shop for wedding attire — Bride's dress, groom's suit, alterations take time.
- Book entertainment — DJ, live band, or zaffa (traditional procession) performers.
- Order invitations — Design, print, and plan for mailing 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
- Plan the shabka/jewelry — If your family follows the tradition, start shopping and planning the presentation.
- Book a florist — Discuss centerpieces, bouquets, and any floral display arrangements.
4-2 Months Before
- Order your wedding displays — Ring trays, hoop stands, welcome signs, and ceremony trays need 2-3 weeks to customize.
- Send invitations — Mail them 6-8 weeks before, request RSVPs 2-3 weeks before.
- Plan the ceremony details — Officiant, readings, vows, nikah requirements.
- Book hair and makeup — Schedule a trial run.
- Arrange transportation — Limousine, car service, or decorated vehicles.
- Plan the honeymoon — Book flights, hotels, and check passport/visa requirements.
1 Month Before
- Final dress fitting
- Confirm all vendors — Venue, caterer, photographer, DJ, florist, displays.
- Get your marriage license
- Write your vows (if personal vows)
- Create a day-of timeline — Share it with your wedding party and vendors.
- Finalize seating chart
1 Week Before
- Pack for the honeymoon
- Prepare tips/payments for vendors
- Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
- Delegate day-of responsibilities — Someone to handle the rings, someone to manage vendors, etc.
- Breathe. You've planned everything. Now enjoy it.
