4 MONTHS AHEAD

Budget plans: After you have a clear idea of the budget, make a list of your investments—it will help you decide on when you want to withdraw them. Sometimes you may feel like splurging on entertainment such as DJs, dance performances, musicians and much more—be sure to have an outer limit!

Trousseau shopping: It is never too early to start your trousseau shopping like bed and table linens, crockery, clothes, accessories, lingerie, etc.

Invites:The trend nowadays is to have two sets of weddings cards—a traditional one sent out by the families and a quirky one sent out by the couple. After you decide on the wordings, take a few sample printouts to check the quality of the print. Send out the invites at least two months in advance, which gives your invitees enough time to RSVP.

Accommodation:Arrange a place for your friends and relatives to stay. If you don’t have the budget to put them up in hotels, there are any number of really good service apartments with good amenities. Do the R&D and work the math.

Services: Make a list of all the service providers for the wedding like caterers, confectioners, decorators, photographers, make-up and hair stylists, videographers etc. This will give you enough time to brief them about your preferences, check samples and negotiate the price.

3 MONTHS AHEAD

Gifts galore: Arrange for tamboolams and return gifts for your guests. Also, this is the time to buy customary presents for your relatives, parents-in-laws and your spouse.

Routine check-up: A wedding in the family is sure to give rise to a lot of stress and health issues. Visit the doctor for a routine check-up; take flu shots and even nutritious supplements if necessary.

Lessons to learn: There is sure to be entertainment at a wedding! It is never too late to sign up for dance or music lessons.