Complete wedding checklist

Frequently asked questions

When should I start planning my wedding?

It's best to start 12–18 months before your date. This gives you enough time to book your venue, hire vendors, sort logistics, and enjoy the planning process without unnecessary stress.

What's the first thing I should do to plan my wedding?

The first step is to set your date and choose your venue. These two anchor everything else: your budget, guest count, vendor availability, and logistics. With these locked in, everything else falls into place.

How do I use this checklist step by step?

Follow the phases in order: start 12+ months out with strategic decisions (venue, date, budget), move to 6 months out with execution tasks (vendors, invitations), and wrap up in the final month with confirmations. Each phase groups tasks by topic so you stay organized.

Do I need a wedding planner to help me?

It's not required. A wedding planner typically adds 15%–20% to your budget but saves you time and stress. Many couples plan solo with a solid checklist, delegating specific tasks to trusted vendors. bodly helps you stay on track without a planner.

How many guests should I invite?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your vision, budget, and personal relationships. An intimate wedding is 30–50 people, a mid-size one is 75–150, and a large one is 150+. Remember that each additional guest increases your budget mainly through catering. bodly's budget calculator helps you see the impact of your choices.