To help people feel less overwhelmed and isolated as they plan and work weddings, I’ve made the resources I use as a professional wedding coordinator and consultant available for free. The “when to use” timings are simply suggestions; many of these resources you can use at any stage of wedding planning. (And if you like these, you’ll love my newsletter.)
Just starting to plan (often, the first four to six weeks after getting engaged)
Why Are We Having a Wedding?: I created this exercise to help people answer the most important question in wedding planning: Why?
Timeline Template: There are exactly two billion wedding day timelines on the internet so, for my version of one, I tried to offer all of the “inside scoop” details that help me figure out how the day will flow.
Vendor and Wedding VIP Directory Template: One of the first things I do when a client hires me is create a contact list. It helps organize my thoughts on who’s doing what when.
Health and Safety Resources: This is a list of every resource I created during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many can be adapted for any health and safety boundaries you may be setting.
OK, we’re thinking of hiring some people now (often starts within the first two months after getting engaged and goes until the month of the wedding)
What Do I Ask During a Venue Walkthrough or Tour?: Here’s what to expect when you first tour a venue as well as a few things to keep in mind when you visit again closer to the wedding.
For folks planning in my area of Portland, Oregon, consider pairing this resource with a series of articles where I review local wedding venues.
Interview Questions to Ask a Wedding Vendor: These are the details that aren’t immediately obvious but will help as you hire your team.
What’s the Difference Between a Wedding Planner, a Wedding Coordinator, and a Day-Of Wedding Coordinator? It’s OK. I didn’t know either.
Seems like it’s time to actually invite people to this thing (often between six months to six weeks before the wedding)
The Easiest Way to Figure Out When to Send Wedding Save-the-Dates or Invites, According to a Wedding Planner: I use this trick all of the time at work.
What to Say in the Most Awkward Wedding Situations, According to a Wedding Planner: Three free etiquette templates to help you navigate conversations around help, money, and plus-ones.
No Wedding Party? 7 Ways to Still Recognize Loved Ones: It can be done!
60 days out from the wedding
Wedding Venue Walkthrough or Tour: What Is It and What Do I Do?: This is a more thorough breakdown of what to do before, during, and after a final venue walkthrough or tour.
What Is Wedding Event Insurance and Do I Even Need It?: This article explains the different types of wedding event insurance and when you might need them.
How Do I Get Legally Married in Oregon?: A primer on what you need by when to get your legal marriage license in Oregon.
30 days out from the wedding
Wedding Ceremony Script Template: It’s why we’re gathered here today. Make the most of it.
How to Make Your Own Wedding Photo List: Say cheese!
How Much Alcohol Do I Need to Buy for My Wedding?: An imperfect science.
Wedding DJ or MC Script Template: To help a wedding reception run smoothly, I recommend you designate someone to play MC throughout the evening. If you’re hiring a DJ, they’ll typically do this. If you’re not, pick a willing guest. All will find this script helpful.
7 to 14 days out from the wedding
Email Templates to Send to Wedding Guests and Vendors: The week before a wedding, I send all vendors and VIPs a customized timeline. These are the emails that I use to get them what they need.
5 Steps to Plan a Wedding Amid Extreme Weather: Because climate change is real.
What Do I Need to Know for My Wedding Rehearsal?: A rehearsal can seem like just one more thing to do but I find them to be extremely useful for all involved. Here’s a cheat sheet to help run yours.
Who Do I Tip at a Wedding?: Because you’re not done paying for things yet!