Your 12 month wedding planning guide: tips, timelines and expert advice
Planning a wedding in a year may seem like a whirlwind, but it’s absolutely doable—and fun! With a little organisation, the right support, and some insider knowledge, your dream day will be a reality before you know it. Plus, with many stunning venues offering deals for 2025 weddings, now is the perfect time to secure your date and start planning the celebration of your lifetime.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the wedding planning journey, offering month-by-month advice to keep you on track. We’ll also have expert advice from Gemma McMinn, senior events manager at Old Palace Chester, who will share her expert tips on making your day unforgettable.
12 months out: the big decisions
Determine your budget
Before you start choosing dresses, cakes, or venues, it’s essential to sit down and establish a realistic budget. Your budget will guide the decisions you make from here on out, so having a clear idea of what you’re comfortable spending is crucial. Make sure to include all aspects of the day, from venue hire to that stunning floral arch you’ve been dreaming about.
Make a rough guest list
Guest lists can be tricky, but you don’t have to finalise it all now. Creating a rough list will give you an idea of the type of venue you’ll need and the catering costs. Whether you’re opting for an intimate gathering or a big bash, knowing your guest count will help narrow down your venue options.
Image taken at Combermere Abbey, Cheshire.
Select your venue (see what we did there?)
Your venue is more than just a place to celebrate—it sets the tone for your entire day. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy barn or a grand country estate, it’s essential to choose somewhere that feels right for you and your partner. And don’t forget to book a venue visit so you can see it in all its glory. For inspiration, explore our collection of beautiful venues here.
Pro tip: Opt for an all-in-one venue where you can get ready, tie the knot, celebrate, and stay over. It simplifies logistics and adds to the magic of the day. Check out some fabulous all-in-one venues here.
Set the date
Once you’ve chosen your venue, it’s time to set the date. Many venues are offering fantastic deals for 2025 weddings, so this could be your chance to snap up a bargain. Keep an eye out for special offers here.
Image taken at Curradine Barns, Worcestershire.
10-11 months out: start bringing your vision to life
Select a colour palette or theme
This is when the fun starts! Begin browsing Pinterest, wedding magazines, and Instagram for inspiration. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic, bohemian vibe or something more modern and sleek, picking your colours early will guide your decisions for décor, flowers, and even your attire.
Hire key suppliers
Photographers, florists, and entertainers tend to book up early, so it’s best to lock in your favourites as soon as possible. If you’re unsure where to start, many venues provide a list of recommended suppliers. For instance, Brookfield Barn offers a helpful supplier guide here.
Find your wedding outfit
Whether you’re wearing a dress, a suit, or something completely unique, shopping for your wedding attire is a special moment. Bring along your closest friends or family and enjoy the experience. Keep in mind that most outfits require alterations, so starting early will give you plenty of time.
Finalise the guest list and send save the dates
Now that you have a clearer idea of your venue’s capacity and budget, it’s time to finalise your guest list. Once you’re happy with it, send out your save-the-dates. Whether you opt for traditional paper cards or a simple email, giving your guests plenty of notice will ensure they mark the date.
Register your intention to marry
Don’t forget to handle the legal bits! You’ll need to register your intention to marry with your local registrar. Your venue can guide you through this process, so it’s best to get this sorted early on to avoid any last-minute stress.
Buy wedding insurance
We can’t predict the future, but we can certainly plan for it. Wedding insurance can give you peace of mind and protect your investment. It’s a small cost that could save you a lot of hassle down the line.
Image taken at The Pear Tree, Wiltershire.
7-9 months out: it’s all in the details
Attend a tasting evening
Many venues host tasting evenings where you can sample the menus. This is a great opportunity to ensure that the food reflects your tastes and preferences and accommodates any dietary needs.
Plan your menu
Work with your venue’s events team to plan out the menu for the day. Whether you’re going for a lavish three-course meal or a casual street food vibe, choose dishes that you and your partner love.
Assign wedding party roles
It’s time to think about who will be by your side on the day. Whether you have a best person, bridesmaids, or groomspeople, assign everyone their roles so they know what to expect.
Source wedding party attire
Now that you’ve chosen your colour palette and style, it’s time to outfit your wedding party. Consider asking your closest friends to choose their own attire based on your chosen theme, or go together to try on a few styles and see what everyone feels comfortable in.
Shop for wedding rings
This is a momentous purchase, and it doesn’t hurt to start shopping early. You’ll want to find rings that reflect your style and are something you’ll love wearing every day.
4-6 months out: time for fine-tuning
Finalise ceremony details
Whether you’re writing your own vows or choosing a reading that resonates with you, now’s the time to finalise your ceremony details. Make it personal and meaningful to you both.
Plan your honeymoon
Dreaming of a post-wedding escape? Start planning your honeymoon now, whether it’s a luxury getaway or an adventurous road trip. Book your accommodation and travel to ensure the best deals.
Image taken at Curradine Barns, Worcestershire.
2-3 months out: the countdown is on!
Cake tasting
Cake tasting is one of the most delicious parts of wedding planning. Go ahead, indulge in some sweet treats and select the cake that will wow your guests.
Send your invitations
Your invites should go out about two to three months before the big day. Include all the essential details, including directions to the venue, accommodation options, and any specific dress codes or requests.
Stags and hens…assemble!
It’s time to let loose with your closest friends! Whether you’re into a wild night out or something more relaxed, your stag or hen do is the perfect time to unwind before the big day.
Hair and make-up trial
If you’ve booked a hair or make-up artist, book a trial to make sure the look is just right. This will give you a chance to tweak anything you’re not 100% happy with.
Image taken at Bassmead Manor Barns, Cambridgeshire.
1 month out: the home stretch
Last chance to give notice
If you haven’t given notice yet, this is your final chance! You must give notice at least 29 days before the wedding.
Final supplier meetings
Meet with your suppliers to go over the final details. Whether it’s the florist, caterer, or photographer, now’s the time to ensure everything is in place.
Finalise the seating plan
By now, you should have received RSVPs from most of your guests. Finalise your seating plan and pass it on to the venue.
Outfit fittings
Make sure your wedding attire fits like a glove. Schedule any last-minute alterations to ensure everything is perfect.
Image taken at Brookfield Barn, West Sussex
1 week out: it’s almost time!
Break in your wedding shoes
Don’t wait until the big day to wear your wedding shoes! Break them in a week beforehand to avoid any uncomfortable blisters.
Beauty and grooming appointments
Treat yourself to a little pampering. Whether it’s a haircut, facial, or manicure, a bit of self-care will have you feeling your best on the day.
Image taken at Rivervale Barn, Hampshire.
Your wedding day has arrived!
Thanks to your incredible planning, your big day is finally here! Relax, soak in every moment, and most importantly, enjoy the celebration with the people who love you.
Image taken at Crumplebury, Herefordshire.
Expert advice
As an experienced event manager at Old Palace Chester, Gemma McMinn has helped countless couples plan their special day. Here’s her expert advice:
Find joy in the planning
“Wedding planning is meant to be enjoyable! Things may not always go to plan, but don’t let that overshadow the bigger picture—being surrounded by those you love and marrying your soulmate is what’s most important.”
The ideal ceremony time
“Personally, I think 2 pm is the perfect time for a ceremony. It gives you enough time to get ready in the morning without rushing whilst preventing any long stretches of downtime, ensuring the pace of the day runs smoothly.”
Menu tips
“Choose food that you and your partner love. You can cater for dietary needs but don’t worry too much about pleasing everyone. Your day, your tastes!”
Lead with what you love
“Your wedding should reflect what’s important to you. Trends and traditions are great for inspiration but don’t feel like you have to follow them. What matters most is creating a day that feels authentic to you and your partner.”
The sky’s the limit
Venues love to get creative when helping you plan your big day. Don’t feel scared to ask if there’s something you want – we’ll always do our best to make it happen and if we can’t there’s a good chance we’ve got something even better in our back pocket!
Are you ready to start planning?
By following these steps and staying true to yourselves, you’ll create a wedding day that’s as unique and wonderful as your love story.
If you’re ready to start your wedding planning journey, browse our collection of stunning wedding venues here. The best way to find out which venue is right for you is by visiting them in person – so get your appointment booked in and let’s get this show on the road!
Meet the expert
Gemma McMinn
Gemma has over 10 years of events management experience and has been the senior events manager at Old Palace Chester since their very first wedding in 2020.
Gemma believes that having the pleasure of guiding couples through their planning stages and then going on to run and host their special day is a true honour. She loves being a key part of turning dreams into reality.
Her favourite part of a wedding day is cueing the bridal/groom party down the aisle and having that very last moment with them before they say ‘I do’.

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