Wedding planning checklist
By Emma Wiseman, founder of Wedlii · Updated
Our planners recommend starting your wedding planning 12 to 18 months ahead. This month-by-month checklist takes you from your first budget chat to thank-you cards, including the legal paperwork for getting married in Australia.
Tick things off as you go. Your ticks are saved on this device, so you can come back any time.
12 months or more before
0/9Lock in the big things first. They shape every other decision.
9 to 12 months before
0/7Book the suppliers who get snapped up early.
6 to 9 months before
0/7Fill in the details that make the day yours.
3 to 6 months before
0/7Paperwork, rings and invitations.
1 to 3 months before
0/9Confirm, finalise and write it all down.
The week of your wedding
0/4Hand things over and look after yourself.
After the wedding
0/5Tie up the loose ends.
Wedding planning questions
When should you start planning a wedding?
Our planners recommend starting 12 to 18 months before your wedding, especially for a spring or summer Saturday. That gives you the best choice of venues and suppliers.
What legal paperwork do you need to get married in Australia?
You lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage with your celebrant at least 1 month, and no more than 18 months, before your wedding. Your celebrant will tell you which documents they need to see, such as a birth certificate or passport. NSW GovernmentQueensland Government
How many witnesses do you need at an Australian wedding?
You need two witnesses at your ceremony. NSW Government
When should you send wedding invitations?
Our planners recommend sending invitations 3 to 4 months before the wedding, and save the dates 9 to 12 months before, especially if guests need to travel.
Who registers the marriage after the wedding?
Your celebrant registers your marriage with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages on your behalf. You can then order your standard marriage certificate from the Registry. Queensland GovernmentNSW Government
How do you change your name after getting married?
If you marry in Australia, you can take your spouse's surname without formally changing your name. Update documents like your licence and passport using your standard marriage certificate, and check what each agency needs. NSW Government
Planning somewhere special? Read our local wedding guides for the best time of year, ceremony permits and when to book in each area.
Let Wedlii keep the plan on track
Wedlii is an online wedding planner for Australian couples. Your checklist, budget, guest list and RSVPs, supplier search and messages all live in one login, with Ask Wedlii, our AI planner, on hand day and night.
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