A Complete Wedding Checklist for Aussie Brides

Planning your wedding can be overwhelming, but with this checklist, you’ll have everything organised, from booking the right vendors to gathering the essential items for your big day.

Vendors to Book

• Wedding Venue

  • Ceremony location
  • Reception venue
  • Backup plan for outdoor events (e.g., marquee or tent hire)

• Catering

  • Caterer for food and drinks
  • Cake designer or bakery
  • Dessert table or sweet station (optional)

• Photographer, Videographer, and Content Creator

  • Professional photographer for capturing moments
  • Videographer to document your day
  • Content creator to capture styled shots and behind-the-scenes moments (optional)
  • Engagement photoshoot (optional)
  • Photo locations including backup locations for bad weather

• Florist

  • Bridal bouquet
  • Bridesmaids’ bouquets
  • Boutonnieres for the groom and groomsmen
  • Ceremony and reception flowers

• Entertainment

  • DJ, band, or live music for the reception
  • Ceremony music (musician or pre-recorded)
  • Photo booth hire (optional)

• Hair and Makeup Artist

  • Hair and makeup for the bride
  • Hair and makeup for the bridal party (optional)
  • Trial appointments

• Wedding Planner or Coordinator (Optional)

  • Full-service planner or day-of coordinator
    
    

Bridal Essentials to Gather

• Wedding Dress and Undergarments

  • Bridal gown
  • Veil or alternative headpiece (tiara, crown, or flower crown)
  • Undergarments, shapewear, or slip
  • Dress preservation bag or garment bag

• Bridal Accessories

  • Headpiece (tiara, headband, hairpins, or combs)
  • Bridal jewellery (earrings, necklace, bracelet, anklet)
  • Shoes (comfortable flats or heels)
  • Bridal clutch or purse

• Groom and Groomsmen Attire

  • Suit or tuxedo for the groom
  • Suits for groomsmen
  • Ties, bow ties, pocket squares, cufflinks
  • Dress shoes and socks

• Bridesmaids’ Dresses and Accessories

  • Bridesmaid dresses
  • Matching shoes (if desired)
  • Jewellery and accessories (earrings, necklaces)
  • Hair accessories (flower crowns, hair clips)

• Wedding Bands and Jewellery

  • Wedding rings for the bride and groom
  • Bridal jewellery for ceremony and reception
  • Ring box or holder

Ceremony and Reception Essentials

• Ceremony Items

  • Marriage licence (ensure relevant church documentation is ready)
  • Rings and ring pillow or box
  • Ceremony programs for guests
  • Unity candle, sand ceremony set, or other symbolic items
  • Aisle runner (optional)

• Reception Decor

  • Table centrepieces
  • Place cards and seating chart
  • Table numbers and menus
  • Guest book and pens
  • Chair covers, sashes, or special seating for bride and groom

• Stationery and Signage

  • Save-the-date cards
  • Wedding invitations and RSVP cards
  • Thank-you notes
  • Welcome sign, seating chart, table numbers
  • Custom signage for ceremony and reception (e.g., bar menu)
    
    

Beauty and Self-Care Essentials

• Beauty Prep and Hair Care

  • Hair and makeup tools (brushes, curling iron, straightener)
  • Hair products (hairspray, pins, ties, veil pins)
  • Beauty treatments (skincare, facial, manicure, pedicure)
  • Perfume

• Emergency Kit for the Day

  • Sewing kit (with safety pins and thread)
  • First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, etc.)
  • Hairbrush, comb, and extra hairpins
  • Makeup touch-up kit (lipstick, powder, mascara)
  • Comfortable flats for the reception
  • Snacks and bottled water

Logistics and Extras

• Transportation

  • Bridal party car hire (limousine, vintage car, etc.)
  • Guest shuttles (if necessary)
  • Transportation for the bride and groom post-reception

• Accommodation

  • Hotel room for the wedding night
  • Accommodation for out-of-town guests
  • Bridal suite for getting ready

• Favors and Gifts

  • Wedding favours for guests
  • Gifts for the bridal party (jewellery, keepsakes)
  • Thank-you gifts for parents or significant helpers
    
    

After the Wedding: Don’t Forget

• Post-Wedding Checklist
  • Arrange for someone to collect decor and rentals after the wedding
  • Ensure your dress is cleaned and preserved
  • Send thank-you notes to guests
  • Settle all outstanding vendor payments
  • Review and approve final photos and videos
  • Change your last name (if applicable) on legal documents and IDs
    
    

This wedding checklist is your go-to guide to ensure that every detail is covered. From securing vendors to gathering all the physical items, this will keep you organised and stress-free as you prepare for your big day!