Congratulations on your engagement! As you embark on this exciting journey toward your wedding day, having a well-structured timeline can make all the difference between stress and success. At Ali Rose Events Co., we're here to help you navigate this beautiful journey with a clear, thoughtful plan.
12+ Months Before Your Wedding
The early stages of wedding planning are all about the big picture:
- Set your budget — Have an honest conversation about finances and determine what you can realistically spend.
- Choose your date — Consider season, weather, and any significant dates you want to avoid or honor.
- Book your venue — Popular Ontario venues book quickly, sometimes 12-18 months in advance.
- Hire your planner — A professional coordinator can save you time, money, and stress from day one.
9-11 Months Before
Now it's time to assemble your vendor team:
- Book key vendors — Photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment.
- Start dress shopping — Custom gowns can take 6-8 months to create.
- Send save-the-dates — Give guests time to make travel arrangements.
- Plan your colour scheme — This will guide all future decisions.
6-8 Months Before
Details start coming together:
- Book accommodations — Reserve room blocks for out-of-town guests.
- Order invitations — Allow time for design, printing, and addressing.
- Create your gift registry — Choose items across various price points.
- Plan your honeymoon — Book flights and accommodations early.
3-5 Months Before
The excitement builds:
- Finalize your menu — Schedule tastings with your caterer.
- Order your cake — Choose flavours and design with your baker.
- Confirm all vendor contracts — Review details and communicate final timelines.
- Book hair and makeup artists — Trial appointments recommended.
1-2 Months Before
The final stretch:
- Submit final guest count — Most venues require this 2-4 weeks in advance.
- Confirm all vendor arrival times — Share your master timeline.
- Break in your shoes — Comfort matters on the big day.
- Delegate day-of tasks — Assign responsibilities to trusted family members.
The Week Of
- Confirm everything one final time with all vendors.
- Prepare all payments and gratuities in labelled envelopes.
- Pack your emergency kit — fashion tape, pain relievers, safety pins.
- Rest. You have planned beautifully.
Planning your Ontario wedding? Book a free consultation with our team — we would love to help you bring your vision to life.


