a wedding planning guide
when to book every wedding vendor: a simple booking timeline
by sophia + colby, chasing robins media · provo, utah
- book first: your venue, then your photographer and videographer.
- photographer: book about 9 to 12 months out, earlier for peak dates.
- most vendors: 6 to 9 months ahead is a safe window.
- peak dates: saturdays and spring through fall fill the fastest.
you just got engaged, and now everyone is asking if you have booked your photographer yet. so, when should you book everything? here is a simple, low-stress booking order that works for most weddings, with how far ahead to book each vendor.
start with the venue
your venue decides your date, your guest count, and a lot of your other choices, so it comes first. many couples book 12 to 18 months ahead, especially for popular dates. if you are touring, our venue tour questions help you compare.
book your photographer and videographer next
photographers and videographers often book 9 to 12 months out, and earlier for peak season. each can only work one wedding per day, so once your date is taken, it is gone. if you want photo and video together, ask if your team does both. our guide to questions to ask a photographer shows what to ask.
the rest of your vendors, in order
- planner: 10 to 14 months ahead
- caterer: 8 to 10 months
- officiant, florist, dj or band, hair and makeup: 6 to 9 months
- cake or desserts and rentals: 4 to 6 months
- invitations: 3 to 4 months
- transportation: 2 to 4 months
does your season or date change the timeline?
yes. saturdays and spring through fall dates fill the fastest, so book on the earlier side of each range if you are planning a peak date. weekday, winter, and off-season dates are usually more flexible.
what if you are booking late?
do not panic. many vendors still have openings, especially for smaller weddings and off-peak dates. start with your top three priorities, ask about availability right away, and be open on the details. a short email with your date, venue, and guest count helps vendors tell you quickly if they are free.
free printable
the vendor booking timeline
a checklist of every vendor, how far ahead to book, and a spot to write who you picked.
download the booking timeline (pdf)questions we get a lot
when should i book my wedding photographer?
most couples book 9 to 12 months before the wedding, and earlier for peak season or popular dates.
what should i book first when planning a wedding?
your venue first, since it sets your date. photographer, videographer, and caterer usually come next.
is 6 months too late to book wedding vendors?
not always. some vendors still have openings, especially for smaller or off-peak weddings, but your first choices may be taken.
do i book my photographer before my venue?
usually after, since your venue sets your date. if your photographer is your top priority, ask about availability first.
if this sounds like the kind of wedding photos you have been looking for…
hi, we think we would get along. we do photo + video together, and we would love to hear about your day.
tell us about your day