The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: Your Stress-Free Guide to The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch
Planning your dream wedding should be as joyful as the celebration itself. At The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch, we've helped countless couples navigate their wedding journey, and we know that staying organized is key to a stress-free experience. That's why we've put together this comprehensive wedding planning checklist to guide you through every step of the process.
9-12 Months Before
Set a budget: Determine how much you can spend and who's contributing
Create a guest list: Make a preliminary count to help with venue selection
Choose your wedding party: Ask friends and family to stand by your side
Research venues: Visit potential locations and check availability for your preferred dates
Book your venue: Secure your date with us at The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch (our calendar fills quickly!)
Start researching vendors: Photographers, caterers, bands/DJs, florists
Take engagement photos: Capture these special memories
Select your wedding date: Finalize this important detail
Book key vendors: Secure your photographer, videographer, and entertainment
Start wedding dress shopping: Allow plenty of time for ordering and alterations
Create a wedding website: Share your love story and important details with guests
Reserve accommodations: Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests
Choose a caterer: Schedule tastings to find the perfect menu
Send save-the-dates: Give guests plenty of notice, especially for destination weddings
6-9 Months Before
Select formal attire: Shop for the wedding party's outfits
Choose your ceremony officiant: Discuss your vision for the ceremony
Plan your honeymoon: Research destinations and book accommodations
Register for gifts: Select items that reflect your life together
Order invitations and stationery: Work with a designer or browse online options
Book transportation: Arrange how you and your guests will travel between venues
Schedule cake tastings: Find the perfect flavor and design for your wedding cake
3-6 Months Before
Finalize the menu: Work with your caterer on food and beverage selections
Order your wedding cake: Confirm design details and delivery logistics
Purchase wedding rings: Allow time for sizing and engraving
Plan the rehearsal dinner: Choose a location and create a guest list
Book hair and makeup artists: Schedule trials to perfect your look
Arrange wedding day transportation: Book vehicles for you and the wedding party
Order wedding favors: Choose meaningful tokens of appreciation for your guests
2-3 Months Before
Send invitations: Mail them 8-10 weeks before the wedding
Finalize ceremony details: Create a program and choose readings/music
Confirm arrangements with all vendors: Review contracts and timelines
Plan reception details: Create a seating chart and choose decorations
Schedule final dress fitting: Bring your shoes and accessories
Write your vows: Prepare what you'll say during the ceremony
Apply for a marriage license: Check local requirements for timing
1 Month Before
Track RSVPs: Follow up with guests who haven't responded
Create a day-of timeline: Share it with your wedding party and vendors
Finalize seating arrangements: Create place cards and a seating chart
Confirm final headcount: Provide the number to your venue and caterer
Break in your wedding shoes: Ensure comfort for your big day
Attend final venue walkthrough: Confirm setup and logistics
Assemble welcome bags: Prepare these for out-of-town guests
1-2 Weeks Before
Pick up your wedding rings: Ensure they're ready and fit perfectly
Get your marriage license: Bring the necessary documentation
Confirm all final details with vendors: Double-check arrival times and logistics
Pack for your honeymoon: Don't leave this until the last minute
Prepare final payments and tips: Organize these in labeled envelopes
Delegate wedding day tasks: Assign responsibilities to trusted friends or family
Enjoy your rehearsal dinner: Relax and celebrate with loved ones
Wedding Day
Eat breakfast: You'll need energy for the long day ahead
Allow plenty of time for hair and makeup: Avoid feeling rushed
Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day
Take a moment with your partner: Whether before or after the ceremony
Remember to breathe and be present: This day goes by quickly!
After the Wedding
Return any rentals: Take care of this within the timeframe specified
Preserve your wedding dress: Have it professionally cleaned and preserved
Send thank-you notes: Aim to complete these within three months
Review your vendors: Share your experience to help future couples
Order your wedding album: Select your favorite photos to tell your day's story
Why Choose The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch
At The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch, our experienced wedding coordinators work closely with you to ensure every detail is perfect. From your initial venue tour to your grand exit as a married couple, we're here to support you every step of the way. Our all-inclusive packages take the stress out of planning, allowing you to focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We offer:
Customizable spaces for both ceremony and reception
Open vendor policy to allow you to choose your preferred vendors
Access to our decor inventory to help you decorate & save you money!
Beautiful photo opportunities throughout our property
Exceptional service from our experienced staff
Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Contact us today to schedule a tour and see why so many couples choose The Barn at Broken Horn Ranch for their special day.
Remember, this checklist is a guide – personalize it based on your timeline and preferences. Happy planning!
