Virginia Wedding Planning Checklist | 12-Month Timeline for Couples
Planning your dream wedding in Virginia? Whether you’re getting married in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a charming vineyard near Charlottesville, or a backyard in Lynchburg, staying organized is the key to a stress-free celebration. This month-by-month checklist is designed to help you stay on track, from booking vendors to mailing invitations.
Use this timeline as a guide to build your perfect wedding planning journey while tailoring it to your own style, budget, and schedule.
12-Month Wedding Planning Checklist for Virginia Couples
12 Months Before: Start with the Big Picture
Choose your wedding date (consider weather and venue availability)
Set your overall wedding budget
Create a draft guest list
Begin venue research and book ceremony/reception sites
Hire your wedding videographer
Consider hiring a planner or day-of coordinator
10–11 Months Before: Build Your Vendor Team
Research and book:
Caterer
Photographer
DJ or band
Florist
Officiant
Book accommodations for guests if needed
Schedule your engagement shoot (great time to get comfortable on camera)
8–9 Months Before: Design & Details
Shop for wedding attire
Research decor themes and rental options
Create a wedding website
Start collecting guest addresses
Finalize your videography add-ons: ceremony coverage, speeches, drone footage
Wedding Videography Pricing
6–7 Months Before: Book & Budget
Order save-the-dates
Finalize menu with your caterer
Plan honeymoon (especially if it involves travel)
Reserve rental items (tables, chairs, linens, etc.)
Apply for your marriage license
4–5 Months Before: Style & Ceremony
Book hair and makeup artists
Finalize wedding attire and schedule fittings
Choose ceremony readings and music
Confirm timeline with your Photographer + videographer
3 Months Before: Invitations & Events
Send formal invitations
Plan rehearsal dinner and any other pre-wedding events
Write vows (if personalizing them)
Finalize details with all vendors
Confirm travel and lodging for out-of-town guests
1–2 Months Before: Finishing Touches
Apply for name change (if applicable)
Confirm timeline with vendors and wedding party
Create a wedding day timeline
Wedding Day Timelines for Virginia CouplesSchedule final hair/makeup trials and dress fittings
Prepare final guest count and seating chart
1 Week Before: Final Prep
Confirm all final payments and delivery schedules
Pack a wedding day emergency kit (safety pins, snacks, etc.)
Delegate small tasks to trusted friends/family
Pick up your marriage license from your local clerk
Virginia Courts Circuit Court DirectoryRelax and enjoy the week!
Wedding Day: Celebrate!
Eat breakfast
Stay hydrated
Allow plenty of time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed
Soak in the moments with your partner
Trust your team (they’ve got it covered!)
FAQs About Virginia Wedding Planning Timelines
Q: When should I book a videographer in Virginia?
A: Ideally 9–12 months before your wedding to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
Q: How far in advance should I apply for a marriage license in Virginia?
A: Within 60 days of your wedding. There’s no waiting period, but it expires after 60 days.
Q: Do I need a wedding planner?
A: Not necessarily, but a day-of coordinator or planner can help things run smoothly—especially for DIY weddings or backyard celebrations.
Q: What should be included in a wedding day timeline?
A: Key events like getting ready, ceremony, photo sessions, dinner, toasts, and first dances. Need help? Start here:
Wedding Day Timelines for Virginia Couples
Final Thoughts
Wedding planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right checklist and a clear timeline, you’ll feel confident and prepared every step of the way.
Need more planning tools or want to reserve your videography team?