Planning a wedding feels a lot easier when you break it into stages. Here is a simple timeline written for Hervey Bay and Fraser Coast weddings, including the extra lead time you will want in whale season, when the region is at its busiest.
12 months or more to go
- Set your budget and a rough guest list.
- Pick a season. July to November is whale season, which is beautiful but busy.
- Shortlist and book your venue. Your date and venue shape everything else.
- Book your celebrant and photographer. The good ones book out early.
- If you are planning an island wedding on K’gari, start looking at ferries and accommodation now.
9 to 12 months to go
- Book catering if your venue does not provide it.
- Book music and entertainment.
- Start shopping for wedding attire. Gowns can take months to arrive and be altered.
- Send save the dates, especially to guests travelling in.
- Block book guest accommodation.
6 to 9 months to go
- Book flowers and styling and event hire.
- Book hair and makeup and plan a trial.
- Order your cake or dessert table.
- Sort transport for the wedding party and guests.
- If you are using a public park or beach, make your booking with council.
3 to 6 months to go
- Send invitations. Our stationery suppliers can help.
- Lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage with your celebrant. It must be given at least one month before the wedding.
- Book dance lessons if you want a first dance to remember.
- Choose rings and allow time for sizing.
1 to 3 months to go
- Confirm final numbers with your venue and caterer.
- Do your hair and makeup trial.
- Plan your run sheet with your planner, venue or celebrant.
- Buy gifts and favours for the bridal party and guests.
- Have a wet weather plan for any outdoor parts of the day.
The final week
- Confirm timings with every supplier.
- Check the tides and weather if you are on the beach.
- Pack an emergency kit with sunscreen, insect repellent, safety pins and tissues.
- Hand the run sheet to someone you trust, then relax and enjoy it.
If it all feels like a lot, a local wedding planner can take care of the details for you.
