What is a good wedding planning timeline for a 12 month engagement?

Short answer

For a 12 month engagement, start with the legal steps first, then book your venue and key suppliers, then work through details month by month. Give notice at the register office about 4 months before the wedding, and confirm all plans by the final month.

With 12 months, you have time to plan without rushing. Begin by setting your budget and guest list, then choose a date and venue. In the first three months, book the registrar or venue, and if you are having a religious ceremony, speak to your place of worship about banns or a licence. Around month four to six, book your photographer, caterer, and any other key suppliers. Send save the dates about six months ahead, then invitations around three months before. Give notice at your local register office at least 28 days before the ceremony, but aim for four months ahead to be safe. Use the middle months to sort outfits, rings, readings, and music. In the final two months, confirm all bookings, arrange a rehearsal, and check your marriage schedule or document details. The last month is for seating plans, final fittings, and packing for the day. Keep a checklist and tick things off weekly. If you are having a humanist or religious ceremony that is not legally binding on its own, plan a short civil ceremony too, and check GOV.UK for current rules.