Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting adventures you and your partner will take on together. But between the flowers, the fittings, and the final guest count, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the to-do list. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate wedding booking timeline to guide you through every step — and help you lock in all the essentials at just the right time.
Here’s how to keep things stress-free and on track from “Yes!” to “I do.”
12+ Months Before: Secure the Big Things
✨ Book Your Venue. The venue sets the tone for your entire wedding, so this is your very first (and most important) step. Popular venues like Oxbow Country Estate book out far in advance, especially for prime dates. Don’t wait — secure your dream setting early.
✨ Hire Your Photographer/Videographer. Talented professionals are snapped up fast. Decide on the style you love and start reaching out early to secure your top choice.
✨ Create Your Budget & Guest List. Before you start booking everything else, get clear on your numbers. This will guide every decision going forward.
9–12 Months Before: Lock in the Look & Feel
✨ Say Yes to the Dress. Ordering a dress can take months, and you’ll likely need fittings too. The earlier, the better.
✨ Choose Your Theme & Colour Palette. Mood boards and Pinterest pins come to life! Finalise your aesthetic to help steer other decisions like decor and flowers.
✨ Book Your Florist & Decor Team. Securing your floral designer and decor team early ensures they can bring your unique vision to life without compromise.
6–9 Months Before: Craft the Experience
✨ Send Save the Dates. Especially important for destination or holiday weddings — give your guests time to plan.
✨ Book Accommodation. For you and your guests! At Oxbow, our luxury 4-star country-style rooms are perfect for pre-wedding prep and post-party wind-downs.
✨ Schedule Menu Tastings & Finalise Catering. Your guests will remember the food. Don’t leave it to chance — book your tasting and savour the experience.
✨ Secure Other Key Suppliers. DJ, band, makeup artist, transport — these all book early, especially in peak seasons.
3–6 Months Before: Personalise It
✨ Finalise Stationery & Signage. This is the time to confirm your invitations, programs, menus, and special touches like personalised napkins or welcome boards.
✨ Meet With Your Coordinator. If you’ve booked with Oxbow, your dedicated wedding coordinator will guide you through the final logistics, run sheets, and vendor liaison.
✨ Plan the Ceremony & Vows. Work with your officiant to shape your ceremony and start preparing your vows.
1–2 Months Before: Fine-Tune the Details
✨ Final Dress Fitting
✨ Confirm Guest List & Send Invites
✨ Confirm Timelines with All Vendors
✨ Create a Seating Chart & Place Cards
✨ Pack for the Wedding Weekend
Bonus Tip:
Use Oxbow’s free online Wedding Cost Calculator to help you visualise your wedding budget and options early on. It’s the easiest way to get clarity and start planning with confidence!
From elegant indoor celebrations to garden ceremonies framed by nature, we make the wedding of your dreams a beautiful reality.
Ready to start planning yours? Let’s begin the journey together.
