The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: From Venue Tour to “I Do”

by Bruidsgids
25 views

Written By: Riverside Country Estate

Photographer = Profitea Wedding Photography
Venue = Riverside Country Estate

 

Planning your big day can feel overwhelming but with the right roadmap (and the right venue!), it becomes an exciting, joyful journey. At Riverside Country Estate, we’ve helped countless couples go from first tour to final dance. Here’s your essential checklist to get from “We’re engaged!” to “We did it!”

 

12–18 Months Before

  • Tour venues (and fall in love with Riverside!) 
  • Secure your date & book your venue 
  • Set a realistic budget 
  • Create your guest list 
  • Hire your wedding planner – here at Riverside we have three fantastic co-ordinators that are passionate about bringing your dream wedding to life.  

9–12 Months Before

  • Book key vendors: photographer, caterer, DJ/band, florist 
  • Choose your bridal party 
  • Say yes to the dress / suit shopping 
  • Send out save-the-dates 
  • Start planning your ceremony & reception flow 

6–9 Months Before

  • Finalize menu & drink selections (we have inhouse caterers and are happy to help!) 
  • Choose décor and rentals to complement Riverside’s natural beauty 
  • Plan accommodation & transport for guests if needed 
  • Book your officiant 
  • Start writing your vows (trust us – it sneaks up!) 

3–6 Months Before

  • Schedule hair & makeup trials 
  • Order your cake or dessert table 
  • Confirm timeline with all vendors 
  • Send out invitations 
  • Plan your seating chart & ceremony layout 

1–2 Months Before

  • Final dress fittings and suit tailoring 
  • Confirm final guest count 
  • Walk through the venue one more time (we’ll help you picture every detail!) 
  • Prepare wedding favours & signage 
  • Finalize your playlist and any special moments 

1 Week Before

  • Pack your wedding day essentials 
  • Confirm times with all vendors 
  • Rehearsal time! Walk through the ceremony 
  • Take a breath, soak it in—you’re almost there 

On the Day…

Let Riverside Country Estate take care of the backdrop and flow—you just focus on the joy, the love, and the moment.

With this checklist and a little support from our team, your planning process can be just as beautiful as the day itself.

Need help getting started? Book a tour with us—we’d love to show you around.

078 434 8457

info@riverside4me.co.za

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