Congratulations, you're engaged! Planning a wedding is exciting, but it's also a lot to keep track of. This month-by-month checklist breaks it all down so you always know what to focus on next, with a few local tips for planning a wedding in Atlanta along the way.
Have less than 12 months? Don't panic. Start at the top, move quickly through the early steps, and lean on your planner to fast-track vendor bookings.
Lay the Foundation
- Talk through your vision, priorities and overall budget together
- Draft a rough guest list (your headcount shapes almost every other decision)
- Choose your season and a few possible dates
- Hire your wedding planner, so you have support from the very first decision
- Tour venues and book your ceremony and reception locations
Atlanta tip: Spring and fall are Atlanta's most popular wedding seasons, and favorite venues for those months often book a year or more ahead. If you have your heart set on an April, May, September or October date, start touring early.
Book Your Key Vendors
- Book your photographer and videographer
- Book your caterer (if your venue doesn't provide one)
- Book your DJ or band
- Choose your officiant
- Ask your wedding party to stand with you
- Start shopping for your wedding dress or attire. Many gowns take several months to arrive, plus time for alterations
Bring the Look Together
- Book your florist and decide on your color palette
- Book your baker and any rentals (tables, linens, lounge furniture, lighting)
- Create your wedding website
- Reserve hotel room blocks for out-of-town guests
- Schedule engagement photos
Atlanta tip: Atlanta traffic is real. Choose hotels close to your venue, or plan a guest shuttle, so nobody spends your cocktail hour on I-285.
Spread the Word
- Send save-the-dates (allow extra time for out-of-town guests)
- Book hair and makeup, and schedule a trial
- Arrange transportation for your wedding party
- Start your registry
- Plan your rehearsal dinner
Finalize the Details
- Order invitations and stationery
- Choose wedding party attire
- Schedule your menu tasting and finalize your menu
- Plan your ceremony with your officiant
- Purchase your wedding rings
Send Invitations and Plan for Weather
- Mail invitations about 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding
- Schedule your final dress or attire fittings
- Write your vows
- Check your county probate court's requirements for a Georgia marriage license
- Make a weather plan for any outdoor moments
Atlanta tip: Atlanta summers bring heat, humidity and pop-up afternoon storms. For outdoor ceremonies, plan for shade, water stations and a rain backup, even if the forecast looks clear.
Confirm Everything
- Set your RSVP deadline and follow up with guests who haven't replied
- Give your final guest count to your caterer and venue
- Create your seating chart
- Confirm arrival times and details with every vendor
- Build your wedding-day timeline
- Prepare final payments and gratuity envelopes
Need a hand? This is the stage where our Month-of Coordination package steps in: we confirm every vendor, build your timeline and run the day so you don't have to. Learn more.
Breathe and Enjoy
- Hand off any remaining tasks to your planner or a trusted friend
- Pack an emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, pain reliever, snacks, phone charger)
- Attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
- Get some rest, drink water and eat a real breakfast on the big day
Planning an Atlanta wedding: quick tips
- Book early for peak season. Spring and fall dates fill up first.
- Think about your guests' drive. Pick hotels near your venue and share parking or shuttle details on your wedding website.
- Plan for the weather. Have shade, cool drinks and a rain backup for summer and outdoor events.
- Lock in your marriage license early. Check your county probate court's requirements well before the big day.
Feeling overwhelmed? Let us handle it.
SS Event Planning, LLC helps Atlanta couples plan every step of this timeline, or steps in for the final month so you can enjoy your day. Not sure which you need?
