The Ultimate NJ wedding planning timeline for a stress-free celebration

There’s a reason for those wedding planning timelines – they work! Most couples typically plan a wedding in 12 to 18 months. And there’s a sequence where one vendor decision builds successfully on the next. Here’s how to put together the ultimate NJ wedding planning timeline and when to book key vendors.

Why you need a wedding planning timeline

Think of each vendor as a building block. By using a planning timeline, you know what needs to be booked first and in what order. Using a planning timeline also allows you to break down tasks in an organized manner and provides consistency in your vision.

Seeing the details of your wedding coming together with a timeline gives you planning confidence. You’ll find a wealth of timeline templates online that you can customize for planning your New Jersey wedding.

Vendor timeline: What to book and when

Before you launch into your venue search, have a serious conversation about budget and guest count. Money Magazine did an interesting breakdown of the average wedding cost per state. New Jersey is at the top of the list at $50,000. Do your research and get a feel for what some of the bigger ticket items cost, like venues, catering, photographers, and entertainment. 

The most important thing is to make sure your vision and headcount are aligned with your budget. Be sure to add some wiggle room for unexpected expenses. Keep track of what you estimated and what you actually spent on each vendor as you go along. This way, you can stay on budget.

Establish a foundation (12-18 months) Many NJ couples make a full-service wedding planner their first vendor stop.  If you’re looking for guidance every step of the way, from vendor selection and contract negotiations to overall design, this is the time to bring on a pro who can turn your ideas into a seamless event. 

This is also the time to secure your reception location. Many NJ venues book quickly, especially during spring and fall or summer at the Jersey Shore. If your venue does not offer food and beverages, be sure to ask for recommendations and start reaching out to caterers.

Photographers and videographers often book a year or more in advance, so don’t delay – especially if you have someone in mind. The same is true for popular DJs and bands. (Read our article about tips to hire wedding DJs.) 

If you’re going for the traditional bridal salon experience, start shopping. Remember, if you’re not buying off the rack, your gown may take months to arrive, and alterations take time.

Finally, be sure to send out your save-the-dates. This is especially important for destination weddings, holiday weddings, or when inviting out-of-town guests.

Start shaping the experience (9-12 months) Florals are such an important part of a beautiful wedding. Now is the time to book your florist and share those Pinterest boards and budget. Then let your designer bring it to life, coordinating with your venue and season. Decor also includes rentals, so reserve any special chairs, linens, lighting, and lounge furniture.

Let your florals and decor inspire wedding invitation design. Starting now allows time for proofs and printing. And enjoy shopping for wedding rings, using the extra time for custom engraving or resizing. 

Speaking of wedding rings – now is the time to lock in your ceremony officiant, whether you’re working with a clergy member, judge, or close friend.

More wedding planning timeline tips

Pull the details together (6 months) If you’re not working with a full-service planner, do yourself a huge favor and hire a day-of wedding coordinator. This event pro will handle logistics, vendor management, and the day-of timeline, so you can focus on making memories.

Attire alterations and accessory selections are next on the list. Take photos of wedding attire and accessories to share with your hair and makeup artists. Top beauty pros who specialize in wedding makeup quickly book. 

Now comes the fun part! Follow up with your caterer to schedule a tasting of your wedding menu. And don’t forget to book your cake designer. Show your theme ideas and colors to your designer and get ready to enjoy samples!

Finally, what about your out-of-town wedding guests? Thoughtful wedding couples reserve room blocks and shuttle service. And think about transportation for the wedding party so everyone gets to the ceremony on time,

Confirm, finalize, and organize (3 months) You’re in the wedding planning timeline homestretch! You booked hair and makeup for your wedding day. Now it’s time to take your photos and accessories to trial sessions. Finalize your playlist with your DJ or band, including special songs and any do-not-plays. 

Make sure your photographer and videographer know of any must-have shots. Confirm other vendor services, such as floral, rental, and cake deliveries. If you haven’t reserved it already, find a location for your rehearsal dinner.

And don’t forget to mail out invitations four weeks before the big day – and be sure to include an RSVP deadline.

Get your ducks in a row (1 month) Have you given the caterer a final guest count? Is your seating chart in order? Work with your day-of coordinator to prepare a thorough wedding day timeline. Your DOC will make sure all wedding party members and vendors who are with you throughout the day have copies and contact info. 

Your 1-month checklist may include one more dress fitting. You (or your planner) will make final confirmation of deliveries and schedules of your photographer, videographer, and DJ.

Use a wedding planning timeline for a stress-free celebration

A solid wedding planning timeline isn’t just about getting things done – it’s about doing them in the right order, with the right support, so you can actually enjoy your engagement. Whether you want a planning partner from start to finish or someone to make sure your wedding day runs smoothly, a professional wedding planner is your best resource.

Planning a New Jersey wedding? Let’s build your perfect timeline together.