# Wedding Planner > Comprehensive wedding planning guide with 12-month countdown timeline, budget allocation, vendor selection, ceremony and reception planning, guest list management, seating arrangements, day-of timeline, and DIY versus professional decision guidance. Use when the user asks about wedding planner, or needs help with comprehensive wedding planning guide with 12-month countdown timeline, budget allocation, vendor selection, ceremony and reception planning, guest list management, seating arrangements, day-of timeline, and diy versus professional decision guidance. Do NOT use when the request requires professional specialized advice or falls outside the scope of wedding planner. - Skill: `ferroxlabs/wedding-planner` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files) - Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add ferroxlabs/wedding-planner` - Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/ferroxlabs/wedding-planner/raw - Safety review: pending - Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex - Category: Finance & Business - License: Apache-2.0 - Author: FerroxLabs (https://skillmd.com/u/ferroxlabs) - Updated: 2026-09-17 - Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/ferroxlabs/wedding-planner --- # Wedding Planner ## When to Use **Use this skill when:** - User asks about wedding planner - User needs guidance on wedding planner topics - User wants a structured approach to wedding planner **Do NOT use when:** - Request requires professional consultation beyond educational guidance - User needs emergency assistance ## Questions to Ask the User First 1. **Congratulations! When is the wedding?** (Date set, or still deciding?) 2. **How many guests?** (Rough estimate -- this drives most decisions) 3. **Total budget?** (Be honest -- this shapes everything) 4. **Who's contributing financially?** (Couple only, family contributions, etc.) 5. **What's most important to you as a couple?** (Food, music, photos, venue, experience, etc.) 6. **What style/vibe do you envision?** (Formal, casual, rustic, modern, cultural, intimate, etc.) 7. **Religious or secular ceremony?** (Specific traditions to incorporate?) 8. **Geographic preferences?** (Hometown, destination, specific venue type) 9. **Wedding party size?** (Attendants on each side) 10. **Any cultural traditions to honor?** (From either side) 11. **What decisions have you already made?** (What's done, what's open) 12. **How stressed are you about planning?** (Helps calibrate the approach) ## The 12-Month Countdown ### 12 Months Before ``` 12 MONTHS OUT: BIG PICTURE DECISIONS: [ ] Set the date (check for conflicts: holidays, family events, weather) [ ] Establish total budget and who's contributing [ ] Create a shared planning tool (spreadsheet, app, or notebook) [ ] Begin guest list (this determines venue size and catering budget) Tier A (must invite): ___ Tier B (would like to invite, if space): ___ Tier C (if budget allows): ___ [ ] Discuss priorities as a couple: what matters most? [ ] Discuss deal-breakers and non-negotiables for each person BOOK EARLY (popular vendors book 12+ months out): [ ] Research and book VENUE Visit at least 3 venues Questions: capacity, availability, included items, restrictions, catering requirements, backup plan for weather [ ] Book OFFICIANT (especially popular clergy or celebrants) [ ] Research and book PHOTOGRAPHER (see samples of full weddings, not just highlights) [ ] Research and book VIDEOGRAPHER (if desired) [ ] Begin shopping for wedding attire (bridal gowns need 6-9 months for ordering and alterations) WEDDING PARTY: [ ] Choose and ask wedding party members [ ] Be clear about expectations and financial obligations ``` ### 9-10 Months Before ``` 9-10 MONTHS OUT: VENDORS TO BOOK: [ ] Caterer / catering company (if not included with venue) Schedule tastings Discuss menu options and dietary accommodations [ ] Band or DJ (good ones book early) Listen to samples, check reviews, see them perform if possible [ ] Florist Share vision, color palette, Pinterest board Discuss centerpieces, bouquets, ceremony flowers [ ] Wedding planner / day-of coordinator (highly recommended even for DIY couples -- they handle what you can't on the day) PLANNING: [ ] Choose wedding party attire (colors, styles, coordination) [ ] Register for gifts (or set up honeymoon fund, cash registry) [ ] Start planning ceremony details (readings, vows, rituals) [ ] Begin hotel block research for out-of-town guests [ ] Create wedding website (The Knot, Zola, Squarespace) ``` ### 6-8 Months Before ``` 6-8 MONTHS OUT: VENDORS TO BOOK: [ ] Baker (wedding cake or dessert -- schedule tastings) [ ] Transportation (limo, shuttle for guests, vintage car) [ ] Hair and makeup (schedule trial) [ ] Rentals (tables, chairs, linens, lighting, tent if outdoor) [ ] Stationery designer or DIY invitations (order/design now) [ ] Photo booth or other entertainment PLANNING: [ ] Finalize guest list [ ] Order Save the Dates (or send digital 6-8 months before) [ ] Plan rehearsal dinner (who hosts, venue, guest list) [ ] Book hotel blocks for out-of-town guests [ ] Research and book honeymoon (travel + accommodation) [ ] Begin planning ceremony (vows, readings, music, rituals) [ ] Discuss and decide on wedding party gifts [ ] Plan bachelor/bachelorette events (delegate to best man/maid of honor) ATTIRE: [ ] Order wedding dress/suit (allow for delivery and alterations) [ ] Shop for accessories (shoes, jewelry, veil, tie, etc.) [ ] Wedding party fittings and ordering ``` ### 3-5 Months Before ``` 3-5 MONTHS OUT: INVITATIONS: [ ] Order or create invitations [ ] Compile final guest addresses [ ] Mail invitations (6-8 weeks before wedding) [ ] Include: ceremony/reception info, RSVP card with deadline, accommodations info, website URL, dietary preference inquiry VENDOR DETAILS: [ ] Menu tasting and final selection [ ] Cake tasting and design finalization [ ] Confirm florist designs (centerpieces, bouquets, ceremony) [ ] Finalize music (ceremony processional, first dance, must-play, do-not-play) [ ] Confirm photographer shot list and timeline [ ] Discuss setup and breakdown logistics with venue PLANNING: [ ] Apply for marriage license (check local requirements and timing) [ ] Plan ceremony rehearsal [ ] Order wedding bands (allow 4-6 weeks for custom) [ ] Begin writing vows (if personal vows) [ ] Plan welcome bags for out-of-town guests [ ] Book honeymoon flights and hotel (if not done) [ ] Schedule dress fittings and alterations ``` ### 1-2 Months Before ``` 1-2 MONTHS OUT: FINALIZE: [ ] Follow up on RSVPs (call/text non-responders by deadline + 3 days) [ ] Create final seating chart [ ] Provide final headcount to caterer and venue [ ] Finalize day-of timeline (share with all vendors) [ ] Confirm ALL vendor bookings (call each one) [ ] Break in wedding shoes (wear around the house) [ ] Final dress fitting and steaming [ ] Hair and makeup trial DETAILS: [ ] Write thank you notes to parents and wedding party [ ] Prepare wedding party gifts [ ] Create a day-of emergency kit (see below) [ ] Designate someone to handle gifts/cards at reception [ ] Designate someone to handle vendor payments/tips on the day [ ] Print programs, menus, place cards, table numbers [ ] Plan logistics: where to get ready, transportation timeline [ ] Delegate setup and breakdown tasks LEGAL: [ ] Obtain marriage license (check local timing requirements) [ ] Confirm officiant has what they need [ ] Arrange witnesses for license signing ``` ### Final Week ``` FINAL WEEK: [ ] Confirm every vendor one last time (with contact name and phone) [ ] Deliver final payments and prepare tip envelopes [ ] Pack for honeymoon [ ] Prepare wedding night bag (separate from honeymoon luggage) [ ] Rehearsal dinner [ ] Give wedding party gifts at rehearsal dinner [ ] Delegate phone/emergency contact for wedding day [ ] Get a good night's sleep [ ] Remember: the wedding is one day. The marriage is forever. Whatever happens, you're marrying your person. That's what matters. ``` ## Budget Allocation ### Wedding Budget Template ``` WEDDING BUDGET: Total Budget: $_______________ TYPICAL ALLOCATION (adjust to YOUR priorities): VENUE + CATERING (40-50%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Venue rental: $___ Catering (food): $___ Bar/beverages: $___ Cake/dessert: $___ Rentals (tables, chairs, linens): $___ Service charges and tax: $___ PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO (10-15%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Photographer: $___ Videographer: $___ Photo booth: $___ MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT (7-10%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ DJ or band: $___ Sound equipment: $___ Other entertainment: $___ FLOWERS + DECOR (8-10%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Ceremony flowers: $___ Bouquets and boutonnieres: $___ Centerpieces: $___ Additional decor: $___ Lighting: $___ ATTIRE + BEAUTY (5-10%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Wedding dress/suit: $___ Alterations: $___ Accessories: $___ Hair and makeup: $___ Groom's attire: $___ STATIONERY (2-3%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Save the dates: $___ Invitations: $___ Programs: $___ Place cards/menus: $___ Thank you cards: $___ FAVORS + GIFTS (2-3%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Guest favors: $___ Wedding party gifts: $___ Parent gifts: $___ OTHER (5-10%): Budget: $___ Actual: $___ Officiant fee: $___ Marriage license: $___ Transportation: $___ Rehearsal dinner: $___ Welcome bags: $___ Tips for vendors: $___ Wedding planner/coordinator: $___ Day-of coordinator: $___ CONTINGENCY (5-10%): $___ TOTAL: $___ ``` ### Budget Tier Guide ``` BUDGET-CONSCIOUS WEDDING IDEAS: INTIMATE ($5,000-15,000): - Guest count: 30-75 - Venue: Restaurant private room, backyard, community hall, park - Food: Brunch/lunch, family-style, or heavy apps - Flowers: Minimal, greenery-heavy, farmer's market flowers - Photos: Photographer only (6 hours), no videographer - Music: Spotify playlist - Invitations: Digital (Canva, Paperless Post) - Dress: Off-the-rack, BHLDN, secondhand, rental - Cake: Sheet cake from bakery, cupcakes, donut wall MODERATE ($15,000-40,000): - Guest count: 75-150 - Venue: Event venue with some inclusions - Food: Plated or buffet dinner - Flowers: Full but not extravagant - Photos: Photographer + videographer - Music: DJ - Invitations: Printed but not custom - Dress: Mid-range bridal shop - Full cake + dessert GENEROUS ($40,000+): - Guest count: 150+ - Venue: Premium venue - Food: Full plated dinner with cocktail hour - Flowers: Abundant, statement arrangements - Photos: Full day coverage, photographer + videographer - Music: Live band - Invitations: Custom designed and printed - Dress: Designer - Wedding planner (full service) ``` ## Ceremony Planning ``` CEREMONY PLANNING: CEREMONY TYPE: [ ] Religious (specific tradition: ___) [ ] Secular / Non-denominational [ ] Spiritual but not religious [ ] Cultural (specific traditions: ___) [ ] Blended (incorporating multiple traditions) [ ] Civil (courthouse or justice of the peace) CEREMONY ELEMENTS: [ ] Processional (music: ___, order: ___) [ ] Welcome and opening words (officiant) [ ] Readings (who: ___, what: ___) [ ] Unity ritual (if desired): [ ] Candle lighting [ ] Sand ceremony [ ] Handfasting [ ] Wine blending [ ] Tree planting [ ] Cultural tradition: ___ [ ] Vows (standard, personal, or combination) [ ] Ring exchange [ ] Pronouncement [ ] First kiss [ ] Introduction as married couple [ ] Recessional (music: ___) CEREMONY TIMELINE: 20 minutes before: Guests seated, pre-ceremony music plays Processional: ___ minutes Welcome: 2-3 minutes Readings: ___ minutes Unity ritual: ___ minutes Vows: ___ minutes Ring exchange: 2-3 minutes Pronouncement and kiss: 2 minutes Recessional: ___ minutes Total: 20-35 minutes (recommended for guest comfort) PERSONAL VOWS TEMPLATE: [Name], from the moment [specific memory], I knew [realization about your relationship]. I love you because [2-3 specific qualities]. I promise to [3-5 specific, meaningful commitments]. I choose you today and every day, as my [partner/husband/wife]. ``` ## Guest List and Seating ``` GUEST LIST MANAGEMENT: GUEST LIST DECISION FRAMEWORK: Must-invite: Immediate family, closest friends, wedding party's partners Should-invite: Extended family, good friends, close colleagues Could-invite: If budget/space allows Courtesy: Consider if they'd be hurt not to be invited GUEST TIERS (for budget management): A-list: Invited immediately B-list: Invited if A-list declines (controversial but common and practical) PLUS-ONE POLICY (decide early, be consistent): - Married/engaged couples: always invited together - Cohabiting couples: always invited together - Dating (6+ months): generally invited together - Single guests: decide a policy and apply it evenly SEATING ARRANGEMENT STRATEGY: Head table options: - Traditional: bride + groom with wedding party - Sweetheart table: just the couple (wedding party sits with guests) - King's table: long table with couple + wedding party + partners Guest tables: - Group people who know each other (don't split friend groups) - Mix tables with social connectors (outgoing people at each table) - Keep exes apart (obviously) - Consider noise levels (kids' table near exit, not near speakers) - Consider mobility needs (accessible seating for elderly/disabled) - Singles table: controversial -- some love it, some hate it Alternative: spread single friends across social tables SEATING CHART TEMPLATE: Table 1 (nearest dance floor): _______________ Table 2: _______________ Table 3: _______________ ... ``` ## Wedding Day Timeline ``` WEDDING DAY TIMELINE TEMPLATE: 8:00 AM Hair and makeup begins (bride/wedding party) 10:00 AM Photographer arrives for getting-ready photos 10:30 AM Groom and groomsmen begin getting ready 11:30 AM First look (if doing one -- saves time, gets private moment) 12:00 PM Wedding party photos 12:30 PM Family formal photos 1:00 PM Break / light lunch for wedding party 2:00 PM Venue setup complete 2:30 PM Guests begin arriving 3:00 PM CEREMONY 3:30 PM Ceremony ends, receiving line or cocktail hour begins 3:45 PM Couple photos (golden hour if timing works) 4:00 PM COCKTAIL HOUR (guests enjoy apps and drinks) 5:00 PM Guests seated for reception 5:10 PM Grand entrance of wedding party and couple 5:15 PM First dance 5:25 PM Welcome speech (host or couple) 5:30 PM Dinner service begins First course / salad 6:00 PM Main course 6:30 PM Toasts and speeches (best man, maid of honor, parents) 7:00 PM Cake cutting 7:15 PM Parent dances (father-daughter, mother-son) 7:30 PM Open dancing begins 8:30 PM Bouquet/garter toss (optional) 9:00 PM Last call (if applicable) 9:30 PM Last dance 9:45 PM Sparkler exit / send-off 10:00 PM Event ends ADJUST to your specific start time. Key: build in buffer time. Things always take longer than planned. ``` ## DIY vs. Professional Decisions ``` DIY vs. PROFESSIONAL FOR EACH ELEMENT: | DIY Savings | DIY Difficulty | Recommendation --------------------|-------------|---------------|---------------- Invitations | High | Medium | DIY (Canva, Minted) Centerpieces | Medium | Medium | DIY if crafty Favors | Medium | Low | DIY Hair/Makeup | High | HIGH | Hire pro (photos last forever) Photography | High | VERY HIGH | ALWAYS hire pro Videography | High | HIGH | Hire if budget allows Music (ceremony) | Medium | Low | Speaker + playlist OK Music (reception) | Medium | Medium | DJ recommended Flowers (bouquets) | Medium | HIGH | Pro for bouquets, DIY centerpieces Cake | Medium | HIGH | Buy from bakery Officiant | Low | Medium | Depends on state requirements Coordinator | High | N/A | Day-of coordinator = best $ spent Lighting | Medium | Medium | Hire for big impact RULE: Photography is the one thing to NEVER skimp on. Flowers die. Food is eaten. Decorations come down. Photos are forever. ``` ## Wedding Emergency Kit ``` DAY-OF EMERGENCY KIT: FOR EVERYONE: [ ] Safety pins (various sizes) [ ] Sewing kit (needle, thread in key colors) [ ] Double-sided tape (fashion tape) [ ] Clear nail polish (stops stocking runs) [ ] Stain remover pen (Tide to Go) [ ] Pain reliever (Advil, Tylenol) [ ] Antacid [ ] Allergy medication [ ] Band-aids [ ] Breath mints [ ] Tissues [ ] Bobby pins and hair ties [ ] Deodorant [ ] Phone chargers [ ] Snacks and water [ ] Cash for tips [ ] Super glue (for shoe emergencies) [ ] Scissors and tape [ ] Static cling spray [ ] Extra pair of comfortable shoes (for dancing) DELEGATE THIS KIT to someone who is NOT the couple. ``` ## Output Format When providing wedding planning guidance: ``` WEDDING PLANNING UPDATE Couple: [names] Wedding date: [date] Days until wedding: [number] Overall status: [on track / some attention needed / urgent items] THIS MONTH'S PRIORITIES: 1. [Task] - Deadline: [date] 2. [Task] - Deadline: [date] 3. [Task] - Deadline: [date] VENDOR STATUS: Booked: [list] Need to book: [list with deadlines] Need to confirm: [list] BUDGET CHECK: Committed: $___ Remaining: $___ Concern areas: ___ DECISIONS NEEDED: [List of decisions that need to be made soon] HELPFUL REMINDER: [Something encouraging or stress-reducing] ``` ## Example **Input:** "Help me get started with wedding planner" **Output:** A structured wedding planner plan tailored to the user's specific situation, following the process outlined above. ## Edge Cases - **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding. Do not assume details the user has not provided. - **Out of scope requests:** Redirect to appropriate professional resources when the request exceeds educational guidance. - **Conflicting requirements:** Present trade-offs clearly and let the user decide priorities.