10 Important Things to Do: The Onlooker's Helpful Wedding Checklist

Weddings are magical, sure, but they also tend to come with a whole lot of stressful moments. You’ve got the dreamy venue, the picture-perfect outfits, the love of your life… But what about that guest list? What about the cost of vendors and outfits? What about the food and dietary requirements for your family members and friends? With so many ideas and factors to consider, many people find themselves dreading the approach of their wedding date, as tasks pile up faster than they can handle.

When wedding planning becomes this much of a chore, it's time to let our handy wedding planning checklist swoop in and save the day! By using this list, you can keep track of all the moving parts and make it to the big day without feeling like you’re starring in a hectic rom-com. Let's help you prepare for the best day of your life!

10 Important Items For Your Wedding Checklist

1. Budget

Before we get all starry-eyed about venues and florals, let’s talk about the budget. Deciding how much you’re willing to spend right off the bat is important, for it will guide every decision moving forward.

Do you want a lavish affair like something straight out of Crazy Rich Asians? Or maybe a more intimate, rustic vibe? Maybe you'd like to hire a well-known hair and makeup stylist who comes at a hefty cost, or rent out your childhood dream location.

Either way, figure out the number that works for you and your partner, and break it down into categories with some wiggle room. Trust us, there’s always that one thing that costs a bit more than you planned.

2. The Guest List

Ah, the guest list. One of the most exciting and simultaneously terrifying parts of the wedding planning process. Who makes the cut? Who do you absolutely have to invite?

Start with the must-haves – your immediate family, besties, that one cousin you can’t live without – and work your way through the rest.

Just remember, you don’t need to invite everyone. Prioritize the people you love and want to share this special day with. Your guest list will directly impact the budget as well, and you need to decide early so you can fit them into your planning process.

3. The Date

Pick a wedding date that works for you, your partner, and your closest VIPs. Want to get married during cherry blossom season or beneath the golden hues of autumn leaves? Make sure you take into account the weather, the availability of venues, and whether or not your dream location is in high demand.

Fun fact: Some people love a quirky wedding date, like 02/02/2024 or 12/12/2024. Plus, that makes remembering anniversaries a breeze! If you're superstitious, remembering to stay clear of certain wedding dates is important.

Ultimately, you want to pick a date that will make you and your partner happy.

4. Venue

Do you want a ballroom affair worthy of Bridgerton, or is a destination wedding more your vibe? Your wedding venue sets the tone for your whole dream wedding, so make it count.

If you're opting for a destination wedding, remember to keep your guests' availability in mind. Wherever you choose, remember—it’s all about celebrating the union of two people in love. While you’re at it, make sure the venue fits your budget and guest list size. A 200-person guest list in a space built for 50? That’s a clear no-go. The last thing you want is to find the venue overbooked, so make sure there's no risk of that ahead of time.

5. Vendors

Now that you’ve got a venue locked in, it’s time to assemble your dream team of wedding vendors. From florists to caterers to DJs, these are the people who will bring your wedding vision to life.

Start by prioritising what’s most important to you. Do you want a flower wall that rivals the one at Kim K’s wedding? Looking for an epic wedding band? Or maybe food is your top priority. Whatever it is, don’t forget to check availability and reviews – that viral foodie video promising the "best ever" caterer? Maybe give it a second thought before booking. Not everything trending online is as amazing as it looks, and you'll do better with trusted references.

6. Photographers

When it comes to your wedding, every laugh, smile, and romantic dance move deserves to be remembered. That's where your photographer steps in, ensuring that every magical moment is beautifully documented.

The Onlookers has you covered. Whether it’s your pre-wedding shoot where you’re looking lovingly into each other’s eyes, or the grand wedding day filled with smiles and happy tears, our photographers are ready to immortalize each precious moment. With a stunning gallery of wedding shots that are sure to make you swoon, we're to be of aid in capturing timeless memories of your love, whether it's on the day itself, or a photoshoot leading up to it.

7. Invitations

As you prepare your invitations, make sure they reflect the tone and style of your wedding ceremony. Whether you’re going digital with minimalist invites or opting for formal wedding invitations, make sure your wedding invitations reflect the correct tone you envisioned.

Try to send save-the-date invitations at least a year in advance. Official wedding invitations should follow after—especially if you’ve got friends flying in from far away.

8. Wardrobe and Wedding Rings

Say yes to the wedding dress, or suit, or jumpsuit. This part is arguably one of the most fun parts of wedding planning! Whether it’s a dress that makes you feel like the ultimate Disney princess or a custom-tailored suit that would make James Bond envious, choose something that comfortably screams you.

Don't forget to get your wedding bands either, and plan out how you want your ring ceremony to go at the same time. Make sure you schedule your final beauty appointments and dress fittings with ample time to spare.

9. Marriage License

Don’t forget about the legal stuff to seal the deal! Before you can officially tie the knot, you’ll need to register for a marriage license. Book a slot via the Registry of Marriages portal a few months before the wedding, and you’re good to go.

As romantic as it sounds to run off into the sunset without paperwork, you’ll need that piece of paper to make it legit when applying for your BTO together.

10. The Big Day

Finally, after all the planning and prep, your big day is here! Make sure you’ve got a solid timeline for the day, from the moment you start getting ready, to the final farewell as the last guest leaves the dance floor.

To avoid looking like a mess, delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members so you can focus on enjoying your wedding day or wedding night. And of course, don’t forget to stop, breathe, and soak in every single moment.

Capturing Every Moment With The Onlookers

Planning a wedding is no easy feat. From wedding venues to wedding shoes, bridesmaid dresses to invitations, reception venues to guest lists, it's a wonder anyone can get all their planning done!

Thankfully, with this ultimate checklist and with The Onlookers' wedding photography services, your wedding planning journey can go without a hitch!

We’ve got your back with several wedding themes and photography packages available to pick out for setting the right vibes for your big day. Start planning your picture-perfect wedding today!