Derbyshire Wedding Planning Checklist: A Month-by-Month Guide
Planning a wedding in Derbyshire, whether it is an intimate gathering of a few guests or a bigger celebration? This month-by-month checklist keeps the big decisions in the right order, so nothing important is left to the last minute.
Before you start: the three decisions that shape everything
Almost every other choice follows from these three, so settle them first.
- Guest numbers. A guest list of 10, 30 or 100 changes your venue options, your budget and the feel of the whole day. Intimate and small weddings open up more unusual venues.
- Budget. Agree an overall figure and a rough split before you book anything. Photography, venue and catering are usually the biggest lines.
- Date and season. Peak summer weekends book up first. Midweek and shoulder-season dates often give you more choice.
12 months or more before
- Set your budget and guest list (see above).
- Visit and shortlist venues, and book your ceremony and reception venue as soon as you have chosen.
- Book your photographer. Good photographers fill dates early, so make this one of your first bookings. See my guide to choosing a wedding photographer in Derbyshire.
- Decide on your ceremony type: civil, religious or a celebrant-led ceremony.
9 to 12 months before
- Book your caterer if your venue does not provide one, and any other key suppliers such as a celebrant or band.
- Start looking at outfits. Made-to-measure and many dresses take months to arrive and be fitted.
- Think about how long you need photography coverage. Our guide to wedding photography hours will help you decide.
6 to 9 months before
- Send save-the-dates, especially if guests are travelling or the date is in peak season.
- Book hair and make-up, flowers and your cake.
- Arrange accommodation and travel for you and your guests where needed.
- Confirm your pre-wedding or engagement photo session if you want one.
3 to 6 months before
- Send invitations and start tracking RSVPs.
- Choose rings, and plan your music and readings.
- Give notice of marriage at your local register office. Check your local office for the timings and paperwork you need, as it must be done in good time.
- Plan the timings of the day with your photographer, so key moments and portraits happen in the best light.
1 to 3 months before
- Chase outstanding RSVPs and finalise the guest list and seating plan.
- Confirm final numbers and dietary needs with your caterer and venue.
- Have final outfit fittings and a hair and make-up trial.
- Agree a simple shot list with your photographer, covering the family groups and any must-have moments.
- Make a wet-weather plan. Derbyshire weather can change quickly, especially at outdoor and hilltop locations.
The final week
- Confirm timings and arrival times with every supplier.
- Pack an emergency kit and put the rings, outfits and paperwork in one place.
- Share the day's running order with the people who need it, such as your best man, maid of honour and parents.
- Give yourself a quiet evening the night before.
On the day
Eat something, drink water, and let your suppliers do their jobs. Pick one trusted person to answer questions so you do not have to.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book my wedding photographer?
As early as you can once your date and venue are set. Many couples book 9 to 12 months ahead, and popular dates can go sooner. You can see recent work in our portfolio and the pricing page has the details.
Does this checklist work for a small or intimate wedding?
Yes. The order of decisions is the same whatever the size. With fewer guests you will usually have fewer suppliers to book and more flexibility on venue and date.
Can I get in touch if I have a question?
Of course. Contact me with your date and venue and I will get back to you.
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