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 Couples

  • Schedule 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 Directory

  • Relax 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?





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