Wedding supplier checklist: who to book, and when
Updated October 2026
Most of wedding planning is booking the right people in the right order. The ones with a single date to sell — the venue, the photographer, a popular coordinator — fill up first, so they go at the top. Lead times vary by city and season; December and peak months need more time.
Book first
- Church or ceremony venue, and the reception venue
- Coordinator — ideally before the other suppliers, since they often recommend and manage them
- Caterer, if the venue does not include one
- Photographer and videographer
Book next
- Gown and suit, with time for fittings
- Hair and make-up
- Flowers and styling
- Lights and sound, and a host
- Cake
Then
- Invitations and souvenirs
- Musicians or a band for the ceremony or reception
- Bridal car or transport for the entourage
- Photo booth or other extras
What to ask every supplier
- Are you available on our date, and how long will you hold it?
- What exactly is included, for our guest count?
- What deposit do you need, when is the balance due, and what happens if we move the date?
- Who will actually be there on the day?
- Can we see a full event you have done, not only highlights?
Keep every quote together
Ask for every quote in writing against the same date and guest count, so they compare fairly. Keeping the quotes, deposits and what each supplier has confirmed in one place — not across chats — is what stops a detail slipping on the day.