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Are you recently engaged? If this is your first time planning a wedding things are about to get incredibly stressful. The good news is, with careful planning, you can less the stress and actually have fun planning your wedding day. Keep this checklist handy and refer to it often for help in putting your special day together without a hitch.

12 Months Before

– Put a binder together. Save clippings from bridal, design and food magazines. Whether it's an article or a simple picture that catches your eye, you'll have something to refer to.

– Budget. Figuring out your budget early will save you headers later. How much will you owe to flowers? What about your dress? Include contributions from your family and your own savings.

– Pick your party. Decide now who your bridesmaids and groomsmen will be and ask them to take part. This will give you time to choose someone else should anyone declare the invitation.

– Guest list. Sit down with your fiancé and plan your guest list. If you want to keep your budget to a minimum, do not invite second, third and fourth cousins!

– Pick your windows. Choose where you will be getting married and where your reception will be held. These venues, especially popular ones, book quickly.

– Begin researching photographers, florists, caterers, bands and DJs.

8 Months Before

– Hire your photographer and book your entertainment.

– Meet, interview and hire your caterer.

– Buy your dress. You'll need to have several fittings before your wedding and buying early will give you the time you need to make sure your dress fits perfectly.

– Register for wedding gifts at two retailers minimum.

6 Months Before

– Choose and buy your invitations. If you are making your own invitations, get started on the project now.

– Plan the honeymoon. You'll need time to book tickets, hotel rooms and get any vaccinations that are required if traveling to another country.

– Purchase bridesmaids' dresses.

– Book an officiant.

– Choose and book a florist.

– Book any transportation that you will be using.

4 Months Before

– Find and book the venue for your rehearsal dinner.

– Visit bakers, choose and purchase your cake.

– Buy your shoes and schedule your dress fittings.

– Book salon appointments for yourself and your bridesmaids.

– Choose music for both the wedding and the reception.

2 Months Before

– Begin finalizing all of the details.

– Purchase rings if you have not already.

– Touch base with anyone you've hired to cater or work your wedding.

– Send out your invitations.

– Send your wedding announcement to the newspaper.

1 Month Before

– Purchase your marriage license.

– Attend your last dress fitting.

– Confirm all details with vendors and your salon.

– Purchase gifts for the wedding party.

– Get your hair cut.

Week Of

– Pick up your dress.

– Check in for the last time with anyone working your wedding.

– Pack for your honeymoon.

– Get your nails done.

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Source by Laura E. Taylor