What is a good wedding planning timeline for a 9 month engagement?

Short answer

For a 9 month engagement, start with the venue and date now, then book your registrar and key suppliers within the first 3 months. Give notice about 4 months before. Use the last 2 months for fittings, details and final confirmations.

With 9 months, your first priority is securing the venue and date, because popular places book up quickly. Once that is done, book your registrar or officiant, photographer, caterer and any other essential suppliers within the first 3 months. In England and Wales, you both need to give notice at your local register office at least 28 days before the ceremony, but it is wise to do this around 4 months ahead to allow for any delays. In Scotland, submit your marriage notice at least 29 days before, but aim for 10 to 12 weeks. In Northern Ireland, give notice at least 28 days before.

Around 5 to 6 months out, send your save the dates or invitations, and start choosing your outfits, rings and readings. At 3 months, confirm all bookings, arrange your gift list if you want one, and plan the hen do and stag do. At 2 months, do your final dress or suit fittings and order your wedding rings. In the last month, confirm timings with all suppliers, write your vows if you are having them, and make a clear plan for the day. You have enough time to be relaxed, but do not leave the big decisions for the final months.