If you plan on hiring a wedding planner, always consult them before making major wedding decisions, like securing a venue, ...

Plan your perfect wedding with our essential step-by-step checklist. Covers everything from budget and vendors to timelines and post-wedding tasks for a stress-free day.

The following timeline, which is based on a summer wedding with a 5 p.m. ceremony, can serve as a guideline for couples as they map out their own big day. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Begin getting ready.