Planning Your Metro Detroit Wedding in 6 Months or Less
As wedding trends go, we’re noticing a significant shift towards shorter engagement periods, with many couples opting to plan their wedding in 6 months or less. Whether your expedited timeline is due to professional commitments, military service, or a specific seasonal preference for your special day, achieving a memorable wedding in a short timeframe is possible and we’re serving you the tips and tricks on a silver platter.
Your wedding planning process will be quite condensed, which means you’ll likely have to tackle a new task almost every day. Swift decision-making will be key — from booking the perfect wedding venue to selecting your wedding photographer, flowers, and more. But if your ultimate goal is to be married ASAP and you’re not picky about every last wedding detail, then a short timeline may be right for you.
Follow our wedding planning timeline below to ensure you get everything done with time to spare. While this might mean some guests, such as distant relatives, might face challenges attending on short notice, it also streamlines your planning process to focus on what truly matters.
Printable 6-Month Wedding Planning To-Do List
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How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months
Once you’re ready to hit the ground running, you’ll need to answer a few super important wedding questions. These answers will help inform your decision-making throughout the planning process, so take the time to think them through:
- Where do we want to get married (general location, not venue)?
- Who will help pay for our big day, or are we paying for everything ourselves?
- What are our priorities when it comes to our wedding?
- What’s our wedding style?
- What’s our estimated guest count?
- Do we have a particular month or specific wedding date in mind?
- Who will we include in our wedding party?
- What services are most important to us?
Once you’ve figured out the answers to these questions, sign up for free access to our Wedding Planning Tool Library which includes a suite of planning tools, including a wedding checklist, budget tracker, guest list tracker and metro Detroit photography guide. These tools will help you stay organized, which is particularly important if you have limited time.
Here we go. Our six-month wedding planning checklist and timeline will take you step by step through the process.
6 Months Out
- Book the Venue & Set Your Date. Your search for the perfect Metro Detroit wedding venue should commence immediately. The venue not only influences your date but also affects decisions about décor, guest capacity, and logistics. With a shorter planning window, flexibility is key. Be prepared to consider weekdays or off-peak seasons to secure your ideal spot. Check out our Metro Detroit venue guide (organized by county) to help kick off your search and see what weddings look like at venues you’re interested in.
- Hiring Your Essential Vendors. Securing your key vendors early is crucial. Given the compressed planning period, flexibility and clear communication about your vision and timeline are vital. Here’s who to book pronto:
- Wedding DJ, Photographer, and Videographer: These professionals are pivotal in setting the tone and preserving the memories of your day. Their expertise can be especially valuable in keeping things on track. When you book these vendors from one company, not only does it save you time and money but your wedding team will know how to work with one another. Learn more about our Team Approach Package to check booking three vendors off your list with one phone call.
- Caterers and Cake Designers: Tastings and menu selections should be expedited. Consider simpler, yet elegant options to ease the decision-making process.
- Florist: Discuss your vision and let them guide you to beautiful, seasonally available options.
- Officiant and Coordinator: Their expertise will be invaluable in navigating the tight timeline and ensuring your ceremony and reception flow seamlessly.
- Guest List: Keep It Intimate. An expedited timeline means reevaluating traditional expectations, starting with your guest list. Prioritize inviting those who are most important to you, keeping in mind the intimate nature of your gathering. This approach not only simplifies logistics but also makes for a more personal and meaningful celebration.
- Wedding Attire: Finding the Perfect Fit. The quest for the perfect wedding attire might seem daunting on a tight schedule. However, many bridal boutiques offer stunning off-the-rack options that can be swiftly tailored. For grooms and wedding parties, consider rental options or ready-to-wear outfits that reflect the wedding’s style.
- Invitations and Communication. With a shorter lead time, digital invitations are a practical choice, offering both speed and ease of management. Ensure your invitations clearly communicate any changes or updates to your guests. Otherwise, choose a simple design and get them ordered ASAP.
5 Months Out
- Set Up Your Registry. Simplify your registry by focusing on essentials or experiences that matter most to you as a couple.
- Plan the Reception Menu. Now’s the time to lock in your menu with your caterer or venue. From appetizers to desserts, make sure you’ve had a tasting to ensure everything’s perfect.
- Book Your Honeymoon. Finalize travel plans and accommodations for your honeymoon or mini-moon, and request time off work accordingly.
4 Months Out
- Finalize Ceremony Details. Collaborate with your officiant on the ceremony flow, traditions, and vows.
- Order Ceremony Programs. With your ceremony details set, order programs to guide your guests through the service.
- Create Song Lists. Select meaningful songs for key moments, trusting your DJ to curate the overall playlist.
3 Months Out
- Enjoy Pre-Wedding Events. Attend your bridal shower, bachelor(ette) parties, and other celebrations, letting your wedding party and family lead the planning.
- Purchase Thank-You Gifts. Pick up thoughtful gifts for your wedding party and parents to express your gratitude.
- Plan Seating Chart. As RSVPs come in, organize your seating chart and prepare escort cards or a display.
2 Months Out
- Write Personalized Vows. Start crafting your vows now for ample rehearsal time. Download our free wedding vow writing template to get started.
- Complete Hair and Makeup Trials. Do a trial run to ensure you’re completely happy with your wedding day look.
1 Month Out
- Obtain Your Marriage License. Research and begin the process for your marriage license, and if applicable, understand name change procedures.
- Finalize Attire Alterations. Ensure all wedding attire fits perfectly after alterations.
- Finalize Photography Shot List. Discuss essential photos with your photographer to capture every moment.
- Confirm Details with Vendors. Ensure all vendors are clear on their roles and timing.
- Music Selection. Confirm special song requests with your DJ allowing them to guide the overall music selection.
- Final Headcount. Provide your venue and caterer with the final guest count for adequate preparation.
- Share Vendor Contacts & Timeline. Distribute a contact list among your vendors for seamless communication on your wedding day.
Realistically, planning a wedding in under six months means being ready to compromise. Whether it’s the date, the size of your guest list, or specific vendor choices, flexibility is your best ally.
Mike Staff is the founder and CEO of Mike Staff Productions, one of the most highly acclaimed wedding services companies in the country, providing award-winning Wedding DJs, Wedding Photographers, and Wedding Videography for over 25 years.
