1 Year to 18 Months Prior to the Wedding:

• Determine the wedding date

• Decide the size of the wedding (guest list) and the formality of the event

• Set a budget

• If the wedding is to be held during peak marriage months (April-October), start looking around for a reception site; a wedding site and an officiant; a photographer and videographer; a florist; musicians; and livery service. Be prepared to sign contracts and fork over deposits after you and your daughter have found the right vendors.

6 Months to 8 Months Prior to the Wedding:

• Throw or attend engagement party

• Get the guest list going

• Attendants will be chosen (important to you if you have other daughters who will be in the wedding, and you're paying for their dresses)

• Bride orders her dress

• Bride and groom fill out their registries

• Honeymoon preparations begin

4 Months to 6 Months Prior to the Wedding:

• Find a baker

• Try on and reserve tux

• Bride and groom should be looking for a place of their own

• Your wife will be shopping for her dress

2 to 4 Months Prior to the Wedding:

• Invitations ordered (prepare maps or other inserts)

• Book hotel rooms for out-of-town guests

• Confirm reservations with vendors (two months prior)

6 Weeks Prior to the Wedding:

• Invitations mailed

• Bride has portrait done for paper

4 Weeks Prior to the Wedding:

• Menu is finalized with reception site or caterer

• Reception seating finalized as regrets and acceptances pour in from the invited guests

• Bachelor party

2 Weeks Prior to the Wedding:

• Confirm hotel for out-of-towners

1 Week Prior to the Wedding:

• Contact guests who haven't RSVP'd

• Review final details with vendors

• Caterer or reception site needs a final guest count

1 Day Prior:

• Attend rehearsal dinner