Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: Your Month-by-Month Guide
So if you’re reading this, chances are you just got engaged (congrats!) and now the big day is on the horizon. We know planning a wedding can feel like a lot, but we’ve got you covered with a month-by-month checklist to keep you on track. And if you’re thinking about tying the knot surrounded by our rustic vineyards and flower farm, we’d love to welcome you to Riviera Vines. 🌿🍇
Let’s jump right in and take it one step at a time—no stress, just good vibes!
12 Months Before the Wedding: The Foundation
Set your wedding date: Check your calendar, talk to close family, and lock in that special day.
Book your venue: If you’re eyeing a vineyard or flower farm wedding, Riviera Vines still has some dates available. (Hint hint! 😉)
Hire a wedding planner: Optional, but it can be a huge help. If you’re the DIY type, get a binder or wedding planning app.
Create a budget: Be realistic and stick to it. Your future self will thank you.
Make your guest list: Draft a rough list to get an idea of numbers before booking anything else.
9-11 Months Before: Building the Dream Team
Book your photographer and videographer: They get booked fast! Consider one who knows our venue well (we’ve got some great local recs).
Choose your caterer: If you’re having your wedding at Riviera Vines, we’ve got a list of top-notch local vendors.
Start dress shopping: Yes, it’s early, but those alterations take time.
Book your entertainment: Whether it's a live band, DJ, or a string quartet among the vines, you’ll want to lock this in.
Save-the-dates: Get these out if you haven’t already—especially if you’re planning a destination wedding here at our vineyard.
6-8 Months Before: It’s Coming Together
Plan your ceremony: Decide if you’ll say “I do” under the vineyard arches, in our new Wine Loft, or out by the flowers.
Order bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits: Don’t forget to think about colors that pop against the green vineyard backdrop.
Choose your florist: If you're using our flower farm, we can help you pick out what’s in bloom.
Book transportation: Whether it's a limo or a vintage car for that grand exit, book it now.
Set up your wedding website: Include all those cute details about how you met and info for guests traveling to the New River Valley.
4-5 Months Before: The Fun Details
Plan your honeymoon: Treat yourself after all this planning. (We’re dreaming of white sandy beaches! ☀️)
Send out invites: Mail those beauties to your guests so they can start planning their trip to Riviera Vines.
Choose your cake: Whether it’s a classic tiered cake or a cupcake tower, taste tests are the best part.
Finalize your menu: If you’re going with a local caterer, consider pairing the meal with our vineyard wines.
Book hair and makeup artists: Let’s face it, you want to feel like a million bucks on your big day.
2-3 Months Before: Finishing Touches
Plan your seating chart: Assign tables so everyone gets the best views of the vineyard during your reception.
Order wedding favors: We’ve seen everything from mini wine bottles to custom candles.
Get your marriage license: Super important. Can’t forget this one!
Finalize your timeline: Share it with your photographer, caterer, and DJ so everyone’s on the same page.
Do a hair and makeup trial: See what looks best for photos with the vineyard backdrop.
1 Month Before: Almost There!
Final dress fitting: Make sure it’s perfect for twirling around the dance floor.
Confirm all bookings: Double-check everything from the caterer to the cake.
Pay vendors: Settle any outstanding balances so you can relax on your wedding day.
Have a bachelorette party: Or a chill spa day to unwind before the big day.
Write your vows: Personalize them and get those tissues ready!
1 Week Before: You’re a Bride!
Pack your bags: For the honeymoon, and don’t forget the essentials for the wedding day.
Drop off any decorations at the venue: Our team at Riviera Vines is here to help set up so you can focus on enjoying your day.
Confirm your guest count: Share it with the caterer and venue.
Practice your vows: Maybe one last run-through at sunset in the vineyard.
Take a deep breath: You’re about to marry the love of your life!
The Big Day: Let’s Do This! 💍
Eat a good breakfast: You’ll need the energy!
Stay hydrated: Especially if it’s a summer wedding at Riviera Vines.
Get ready with your crew: Sip champagne, laugh, and enjoy the moment.
Trust your vendors: You’ve planned everything so well, now let it all unfold.
Have the best day ever: This is your day. Soak it all in, dance the night away, and make memories to last a lifetime!
Planning a wedding is no small feat, but with a bit of organization and the right venue (wink, wink), it can be an absolute blast. If you're still on the hunt for the perfect place to say “I do,” come visit us at Riviera Vines. All of our new wedding packages include wedding coordinators to help you with all of these details. From rustic vineyards to a colorful field of flowers, we’ve got everything to make your wedding unforgettable.
Happy planning, and cheers to love! 🥂
