Indian wedding checklist (12-month timeline)

A practical Indian wedding checklist covering Haldi, Mehendi, Sangeet, pheras, and reception. Tick items as you go — then put the guest-facing schedule on a free wedding website.

Reset ticks Save progress on a wedding website Open free planner tool

12 months before

• Set budget & guest ballpark
• Shortlist venues & muhurat dates
• Book photographer / cinema (peak dates go first)
• Decide wedding website vs only PDF invites

9 months before

• Confirm venue + catering package
• Book mehendi / makeup artist holds
• Start outfit shopping (bride + groom)
• Share save-the-date on WhatsApp + website

6 months before

• Finalise events: Haldi, Mehendi, Sangeet, Wedding, Reception
• Book décor / planner scope
• Collect guest addresses / phone list
• Publish wedding website with RSVP

3 months before

• Lock photo shot list & family groupings
• Travel & stay notes for outstation guests
• Outfit fittings + jewellery plan
• Menu tasting / final catering count process

1 month before

• Send formal digital invites + website link
• Confirm vendor call times & contacts
• Seating sketch for pheras / reception
• Emergency kit + day-of timeline PDF

Week of

• Final RSVP freeze
• Share run-of-show with photographer & planner
• Confirm transport / hotel desks
• Upload any last website updates (map, weather, dress code)

Day of

• Point person for vendors
• Phone on silent for key family
• Hydration + buffer time between events
• Enjoy pheras — the photos will handle the rest

Picking dates? Start with shubh muhurat 2026, then work backwards on this timeline.

For printable handoffs, export your run-of-show from your wedding website or planner once vendors are locked — and brand every PDF with your couple names.

Frequently asked questions