North Carolina Wedding Checklist for Newly Engaged Couples

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting seasons of your life — but it can also feel overwhelming without a clear plan. If you’re newly engaged and dreaming of your special day, this guide is for you. We’ve created the ultimate North Carolina wedding planning checklist to help couples like you stay organized, stress less, and create a celebration that feels true to your love story.

Whether you envision a timeless ceremony in the countryside or a modern reception in a historic venue, this North Carolina wedding checklist covers every step – from booking your venue to your grand exit.

12+ Months Before Your Wedding

This is the dreaming and decision-making phase. Start with the big picture items on your North Carolina wedding checklist before diving into the details.

• Set your wedding budget – know what matters most so you can prioritize.
• Start gathering names and addresses for a guest list – estimate your headcount early to guide venue and vendor choices.
• Choose your wedding date or season – every season in North Carolina brings its own unique charm.
• Tour North Carolina wedding venues – this is the best time to visit spaces like WinMock at Kinderton to secure your preferred date.
• Book your ceremony and reception venue – venues often book 12–18 months in advance.
• Hire a wedding planner/coordinator (optional)

9-12 Months Before

Once your venue is secured, it’s time to bring your vendor team together.

• Research & hire key vendors – photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, entertainment, and officiant.
• Select your wedding party – and share the good news.
• Say yes to the dress or suit – and schedule fittings.
• Design your wedding vision – color palette, theme, décor.
• Book room blocks for out-of-town guests.
• Launch your wedding website – use an online platform like The Knot or similar wedding planning sites. These tools make it easy to share event details, manage your guest list, and collect RSVPs all in one place.”

6–9 Months Before

Now you’re in full planning mode – we’re halfway through the wedding checklist!

• Send Save the Dates to give guests plenty of notice.
• Schedule engagement photos – perfect for your website or invitations.
• Book rentals and specialty décor (tablescapes, linens, lighting).
• Choose your officiant and begin ceremony planning.
• Select transportation for you and your guests if needed.
• Build gift registry.
• Select wedding party attire.

3–6 Months Before

Your wedding vision is coming to life.

• Order wedding invitations and finalize your design details.
• Schedule tastings with your caterer or cake designer.
• Plan your honeymoon and secure travel documents.
• Have your hair and makeup trial – book your stylist early.
• Select ceremony music and reception playlist.
• Schedule your rehearsal dinner venue.
• Purchase wedding bands.

1-3 Months Before

The countdown is officially on. Only a few items remaining on the wedding checklist!

• Mail invitations (about 8–10 weeks before).
• Finalize your seating chart and guest list.
• Confirm all vendors and finalize timelines.
• Plan your ceremony details – readings, vows, and processional order.
• Apply for your North Carolina marriage license.
• Track RSVP’s and follow up with any non-responders.
• Schedule your final dress fitting.
• Book any beauty appointments.

1-2 Weeks Before

• Pack for your honeymoon if leaving right after the wedding.
• Prepare final payments and gratuities for vendors.
• Get your wedding day emergency kit ready.
• Give final schedule to all important parties.

Wedding Week

• Get plenty of rest.
• Go to any last minute beauty appointments.
• Host your rehearsal dinner.
• Soak in the moment – your wedding day is almost here!

Ready to Start Crossing Off Your North Carolina Wedding Checklist?

Your wedding day deserves a venue as special as your love story. If you’re ready to check “find the perfect wedding venue” off your list, we’d love to show you around.

Book a tour of WinMock at Kinderton and take the first step towards bringing your North Carolina wedding dreams to life.