Your Wedding Planning Timeline: A Friendly Guide for Newfoundland Brides

As a wedding photographer, I get tons of questions from brides wondering how to start planning their big day. From booking a venue to choosing the right vendors, it can feel like a lot! But don’t worry—here’s a simple timeline to guide you through the process and keep things stress-free.

12 Months Before the Wedding

This is the foundation of your wedding planning journey. Many popular venues near metro St. John’s, like The ALT Hotel, The Wilds, and The Sheraton, get booked more than a year in advance.

  • Book Your Venue: If you’ve picked a date, secure your venue immediately. The best ones book up fast, especially for summer weddings.
  • Hire Your Photographer: Known photographers in Newfoundland (like me!) often get bookings 12 months ahead, so reach out early to ensure availability.
  • Draft Your Budget: Be realistic about what you want to spend. Some weddings stay under $5,000, while others can go up to $20,000 or more. Decide what matters most to you, whether it’s the venue, photography, or food, and allocate your budget accordingly.
  • Start Researching Vendors: Look into catering, florists, DJs or bands, and officiants.
  • Build Your Guest List: You’ll need a rough headcount for all your bookings.


A couple sitting on a rocky shoreline next to the sea at sunset, their silhouettes bathed in warm golden light, St. John's, Newfoundland.
A laughing couple on a rocky shore at sunset, sharing a moment of love in St. John's, Newfoundland.
A couple on a rocky shore at sunset, surrounded by warm hues and the rugged beauty of St. John's, Newfoundland.

6 Months

Now that you’ve locked down the big details, it’s time to focus on the rest of your team.

  • Catering and Cake: Many Newfoundland venues, like The Wilds, come with catering packages, but if yours doesn’t, now’s the time to book. Family-style meals or traditional dishes like jigs dinner are always popular for Newfoundland weddings.
  • Makeup and Hair: While makeup artists and hair stylists in Newfoundland often have flexible schedules, it’s still a good idea to check in regularly to confirm their availability as your date approaches.
  • Transportation: If needed, book a classic carriage, party bus, or trolley to help with guest transport.
  • Wedding Attire: Purchase your dress and finalize attire for your bridal party. Remember, alterations can take time!
  • Send Save-the-Dates: This is especially important if you have guests traveling from out of town.


3 Months

It’s time to fine-tune the details.

  • Plan the Ceremony and Decorations: Work with your officiant and start thinking about décor that reflects your personality. Many couples love incorporating Newfoundland touches, like saltbox house-inspired centerpieces or accents of fishing nets.
  • Share Your Timeline: Finalize your day’s schedule and share it with your photographer and planner. They’ll need to know when key moments are happening.
  • Order Invitations: Send these out as soon as possible to give guests time to RSVP.


1 Month

The finish line is in sight!

  • Confirm and Connect with Vendors: Double-check with all vendors to ensure everything is on track and discuss any last-minute details.
  • Appoint a Coordinator: Share all your wedding details with a trusted person like your maid of honor, sister, cousin, or aunt. This person can help coordinate vendors, the timeline, and last-minute issues on the big day, allowing you to relax.
  • Break in Your Shoes: Avoid blisters by wearing your wedding shoes around the house.
  • Make a Backup Weather Plan: Newfoundland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so plan for indoor alternatives or embrace the mist with a beautiful shawl or coat.


1 Week

You’re almost there!

  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include items like safety pins, Band-Aids, and blotting paper.
  • Pack for the Honeymoon: If you’re traveling after the wedding, get your bags ready early.
  • Finalize Vows: If you’re writing your own, now’s the time to perfect them.
  • Relax: Spend time with close family and friends to calm any pre-wedding jitters.


Three groomsmen laughing and playfully tugging their suspenders, full of charm and energy in St. John's, Newfoundland.
A couple hugging tightly, the bride playfully pointing at her groom with a smile that says, 'This man is mine,' in St. John's, Newfoundland
Three bridesmaids striking a Charlie's Angels pose in front of a mirror, their reflections adding a playful touch in St. John's

The Wedding Day

Forget everything and enjoy the party—you’ve done the work!

  • Let Your Helper Handle the Details: With your coordinator managing the day’s logistics, you can focus on celebrating with your loved ones.
  • Stay in the Moment: Whether it’s sunny, misty, or drizzling (hello, Newfoundland weather!), this is your special day. Laugh, dance, and soak in every moment!



Wedding planning can be an exciting journey when approached step by step. Remember, it’s all about celebrating your love. If you’re still searching for someone to capture your story beautifully, I’d love to be there for you! Reach out, and let’s chat about your big day. ❤️