Wedding Planning Guide: Five Months Before
the Big Day

Meet with your minister/clergyman/officiant
Set up and appointment to meet with the officiant, together with your fiancé and parents. Discuss with him or her what type of ceremony you would like to have.

Decide on your wedding gown
By now you should have a pretty good idea of the type of wedding gown you would like. If you are having it made, start making appointments with designers and finalize this. It takes most designers about three to four months to create a gown.

Decide on the theme
Start thinking about the types of flowers you want at your wedding as well as the décor. Start making appointments with florists and event coordinators to start finalizing your décor and design.

Decide on the music
Whether you are having a live band, musicians, organists or a DJ, start getting quotes now. If you find something you are happy with, book them straight away.

Decide and order the wedding cake
Even if you have not decided on the type of cake you want, book your wedding cake now.

Finalize the guest list
Decide on your invitations and get them printed as soon as possible. Remember to also order place cards and thank you notes in advance.

Plan your reception
Whether you are doing it alone or working with a wedding coordinator, now is a good time to get working on your reception. Decide on how you want the order of service to flow and finalize all catering, hiring and décor.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen
Decide on the clothing for your bridesmaids and groomsmen and book a fitting with a designer if you are having them made. Alternatively, if you are hiring clothing, book them now.