3-month wedding checklist
Three months out, planning shifts from booking to finalizing: collecting RSVPs, building the seating chart, confirming the vendor timeline, and scheduling final payments. The marriage license belongs in the last 30–60 days — many expire 30–90 days after issue.
If the big bookings are done, this list carries you through the final three months — so the last week holds nothing but the celebration.
3 months before the big day
- Set the RSVP deadline and start collecting responsesCall the stragglers — catering invoices are built on the final count.
- Schedule the final dress fitting
- Confirm honeymoon bookings and travel documents
2 months before the big day
- Build the seating chartTables first, family diplomacy second — drag-and-drop in the planner.
- Hair and makeup trial
- Write the day-of timeline with every vendorPhotographer, DJ, florist, cake delivery — one shared timeline.
- Order thank-you cards and finalize favors
The final month
- Get the marriage licenseCheck your county: waiting periods and 30–90-day expiry windows are common.
- Give the final headcount and seating chart to the venue
- Schedule final vendor payments and prep tip envelopes
- Pack the emergency kit and name two point peopleTwo trusted guests who field every question on the day — so nobody brings them to you.
Frequently asked questions
What matters most 3 months before the wedding?
The final headcount: every vendor contract and the catering bill build on it. Set an RSVP deadline 8–10 weeks out and call anyone who has not answered.
When should we get the marriage license?
In the final 30–60 days. Rules vary by state and county — some impose waiting periods, and many licenses expire 30–90 days after they are issued.
When should the seating chart be final?
About 3–4 weeks before the wedding, once RSVPs are in. Venues usually ask for the final floor plan 1–2 weeks ahead.