The average engagement in the United States is 12 – 18 months. Here is a rough timeline of when you should be thinking about certain things relating to your wedding. Of course, your situation may vary but this should get you started.
12-18 Months Before:
- Pick out the engagement ring (if not yet selected)
- Announce your engagement
- Discuss wedding plans and budget with fiancée and all parents
- Select your best man, groomsmen, ushers (generally one usher per 40 guests)
- Help plan engagement party
- Discuss ceremony and reception sites, with your fiancée
- Attend a Bridal Show to receive special discounts and start getting some ideas
8-9 Months Before:
- Meet with officiant (your minister, priest, rabbi, or civil officiant) to discuss the ceremony
- Start compiling your guest list
- Begin making your honeymoon travel plans (remember to avoid the hurricane season wherever you might be traveling)
6 – 8 Months Before:
- Complete gift registries with fiancée
- Arrange for transportation to the ceremony and reception for the wedding party
- Complete your honeymoon plans
- Register your wedding with Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo and pick your tuxedos or wedding suits and accessories. Bring a list of attendants needing formal wear — some ideas include Best Man, Groomsmen, Jr. Groomsmen, Ring Bearer, Fathers, Grandfathers, Ushers (generally one per 40 guests), and any other attendants or special guests you would like to honor
3 Months Before:
- Send Out of Town Measurement Sheet to any out-of-town members of the wedding party
- Complete the guest list
- Pick out and order wedding rings
- Pick out and order groomsmen gifts – Vittorio’s can help with this if you need
- Plan rehearsal dinner with parents
- Choose gifts for your bride and wedding party
- Update passports if you plan to travel abroad on your honeymoon
1 Month Before:
- Make sure everyone in your wedding party has been measured for tuxedos at Vittorio’s.
- Get your marriage license
- Make appointments for haircuts and other personal grooming
2 Weeks Before:
- Attend your bachelor party (please don’t drink and drive).
- Adjust insurance policies, bank accounts, utilities, etc.
The Week of:
- Pick up your tuxedo at Vitttorio Formalwear … remember, try it on in the store, to ensure a proper fit
- Pack for the honeymoon
- Get cash for gratuities and officiant’s fee
- Take a deep breath… you’re almost there
- Enjoy your rehearsal and dinner
The Big Day:
- Double-check all details, wedding rings, and transportation… marriage license
- Get to the ceremony on time
- Relax and enjoy your wedding and reception!
The Day After:
- Return the tuxedos to Vittorio’s
- Drop off the bride’s gown to be cleaned and preserved at Vittorio’s