Rieghard Janse van Rensburg · 6/24/2026
When Should You Start Planning Your Wedding?
Wondering when to start planning your wedding? Discover the ideal wedding planning timeline and learn why starting 9 to 12 months before your big day can make all the difference.

Planning your dream wedding begins long before you walk down the aisle. One of the most common questions newly engaged couples ask is: “When should we start planning?”
Ideally, couples should begin planning their wedding between nine and twelve months before their chosen date. This provides enough time to secure popular venues, book trusted suppliers and make informed decisions without feeling rushed.
Starting early allows you to:
• Secure your preferred venue and date.
• Book sought-after photographers, videographers and other suppliers.
• Spread expenses over several months.
• Enjoy the planning process instead of feeling overwhelmed.
If your engagement period is shorter, don’t panic. Prioritise the most important elements first, including your venue, officiant, photographer and catering.
Every wedding journey is unique, but starting early gives you the freedom to create a celebration that truly reflects your love story.
Looking for More Wedding Budget Advice?
This article is adapted from The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Wedding by Rieg & Eidie RRAD Photo Video.
Our comprehensive wedding planning ebook includes practical advice, expert insights and tips gathered from close to 600 real weddings.
Purchase your copy today for only R99 and plan your wedding with confidence.
To order your copy or find out more, contact us using the details below:
📧 info@rradphotography.com
📱 +27 71 896 6831
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