Planning a wedding in New England can feel overwhelming with so many details to manage, but staying organized makes all the difference. This wedding milestones checklist breaks down everything you need to plan your big day with ease, from booking vendors to finalizing timelines.
12+ Months Before: Laying the Foundation
Set Your Budget: Decide on an overall budget and prioritize where you want to spend—whether it’s on a breathtaking venue, top-tier catering, or stunning floral arrangements.
Set the Date: Consider New England’s seasons when choosing your date. Fall foliage and summer coastal views are stunning but can also be peak wedding seasons.
Select Your Venue: Book your dream venue early, as popular spots in New England, like The Cliff House in Maine or The Boston Public Library, often fill up over a year in advance.
Choose Your Wedding Planner: Hire a New England wedding planner who understands the region’s unique charm and can streamline the planning process.
Create Your Guest List: Start drafting your guest list to determine the size of your wedding. This will help guide your venue search.
9-12 Months Before: Building Your Team
Book Key Vendors: Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment. New England is home to exceptional talent, but popular vendors book quickly.
Find Your Dress: Start shopping for your wedding attire and schedule fittings. Don’t forget accessories and shoes!
Choose a Theme and Color Palette: Decide on a cohesive theme that reflects your style and works well with your venue. Think coastal blues, rustic neutrals, or elegant golds.
Reserve Accommodations: Block rooms at nearby hotels for your guests, especially if you’re hosting a destination wedding or in a tourist-heavy area like Boston or Portsmouth.
Plan Your Engagement Photos: Work with your photographer to capture stunning New England backdrops for your engagement session.
6-9 Months Before: Details and Décor
Send Save-the-Dates: Mail your save-the-dates to give your guests plenty of time to plan, especially if they’re traveling from out of town.
Plan Transportation: If your venue is remote or split between multiple locations, arrange for guest transportation to keep things running smoothly.
3-6 Months Before: Refining the Experience
Select Your Menu: Work with your caterer to finalize your menu, incorporating local New England flavors like lobster rolls, clam chowder, or maple-infused desserts.
Order Invitations: Choose and order your invitations, ensuring they align with your wedding theme.
Plan Décor Details: Finalize your décor elements, such as centerpieces, lighting, and table settings, to bring your vision to life.
1-3 Months Before: Putting It All Together
Apply for Your Marriage License: Research marriage license requirements in your New England state, as they vary from Maine to Massachusetts.
Create a Wedding Day Timeline: Work with your planner to outline a detailed schedule for the day, including getting ready, ceremony, and reception.
Confirm with Vendors: Touch base with all your vendors to confirm arrival times, final guest counts, and any last-minute details.
Prepare Favors and Welcome Bags: Assemble favors or welcome bags with regional touches like maple syrup, saltwater taffy, or local coffee for your guests to enjoy.
The Week Of: Relax and Celebrate!
Pack a Wedding Day Emergency Kit: Include essentials like sewing supplies, snacks, tissues, and touch-up makeup.
Attend Your Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner: Take time to practice your ceremony and enjoy a relaxed evening with close friends and family.
Get Plenty of Rest and Hydrate: Make sure you’re well-rested so you can fully enjoy your big day.