How long does it really take to organise a wedding?

Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to wedding planning, there’s one big question on every couple’s mind: how long does it take to organise a wedding? The truth is, it can take anywhere from a few days to 2 years, depending on how organised you are—and how much help you have along the way.

We’ve had our fair share of wedding planning experiences – and believe us when we say that it doesn’t have to take as long as most people think. In fact, the shortest lead time we’ve had was 3 days – when we organized two weddings in the same week during the lockdown. So, let’s dive into the details and see what really goes into planning a wedding.

1. The Super-Speedy Wedding : Can You Really Do It in 3 Days?

While most couples might consider it a bit of a stretch, we can confirm that it’s possible to plan a wedding in as little as 3 days—though it helps to have a team of professionals to back you up.

During the 2020 lockdown, we were faced with a unique challenge: couples still wanted to get married, but the usual venues and resources were out of reach. We adapted quickly, pulling together a couple of intimate, beautiful weddings in record time. Here’s what we learned from those lightning-fast planning sessions:

Flexible and Minimalist Approach: With fewer options available, couples didn’t waste time agonizing over every detail. They embraced simplicity and focused on what really mattered: saying “I do” in a meaningful way.
Fast Decision-Making: The key to organizing a wedding in such a short amount of time is decisiveness. There’s no room for second-guessing when you’re up against the clock.
Supplier Partnerships: Having trusted suppliers who can jump into action at a moment’s notice is essential. Luckily, we had reliable contacts who helped us secure everything from flowers to photographers in record time.

2. 4 Months – A More Realistic Timeline for Most Couples

While a 3-day wedding might sound thrilling, most couples will prefer a bit more time to plan. If you’re super organized and get the right help, 4 months can be more than enough time to plan a wedding that feels both beautiful and stress-free.

Here’s what a 4-month timeline might look like:

Month 1: Setting the Foundation – Start by booking your venue, and the location for your ceremony, secure your wedding planner (if you’re working with one) and decide on your wedding theme. You’ll also want to finalise your guest list, design your invites and get a head start on attire, such as booking appointments for wedding dresses and suits – and book your accommodation if you are planning to stay the night.

Month 2: Bringing in the Suppliers – By now, it’s time to book essential suppliers like photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment. Think about your ceremony and reception details, including decorations, seating arrangements.

Month 3: Finalising the Details – This month is all about fine-tuning the smaller details. Confirm all your bookings, start setting out the placement for your dining and confirm dietaries with your caterer.

Month 4: The Countdown – Now that everything’s in place, it’s time to do final checks, have your dress fittings, and make sure your suppliers know exactly where they need to be. You’re just about ready to say “I do”.

3. The Average Wedding Planning Time: 18 Months

For couples who prefer to take things slower, the average wedding planning time is around 18 months. This allows for more flexibility, giving you ample time to search for the perfect venue, explore various options for suppliers and avoid the stress of last-minute planning.

Planning over a longer period allows you to:

• Shop around for the best suppliers and wedding services
• Plan a larger guest list without worrying about availability
• Focus on things like intricate decor, destination weddings and more
• Spread out the costs so they’re easier to manage
• While some might find the 18-month timeline a little too relaxed, it’s perfect for those who want to have time to think through every decision—whether it’s your colour scheme or your honeymoon destination.

4. What’s the Key to Efficient Wedding Planning?

No matter how much time you have, the key to a smooth wedding planning process is organisation. Staying on top of deadlines, making decisions quickly and working with experienced suppliers can cut down on the stress and uncertainty.

Here’s what we recommend:

Get Help Early : If you’re aiming for a shorter timeline, hiring a wedding planner or coordinator can save you hours of time and stress
Prioritise What Matters : Figure out the most important aspects of your wedding—whether that’s the food, venue, or entertainment – and focus on those first
Stay Flexible : Being open to adjusting your expectations and timelines can make the process much smoother.
Final Thoughts

In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it takes to plan a wedding. It all depends on your priorities, the size of the guest list and how much help you have along the way. While some may take a leisurely 18 months, others can get it done in just a few days—especially if you’re organised and know where to turn for professional help. Whether you’ve got 4 days or 18 months, remember that your wedding day is about you, celebrating love and commitment, not the amount of time it takes to plan.

So, how long will it take to organise your dream wedding? That’s up to you! But don’t worry, we’re here to make it happen, no matter your timeline.