Here’s a timetable suggested by author Rita Milos Brownstein in her book, “Jewish Weddings,” for the bride and groom.
Six months to a year:
• Contact local newspapers to announce your engagement.
• Select the date. (Certain dates are off-limits according to Jewish law.)
• Choose a location for the ceremony and reception.
• Send save-the-date cards.
• Choose a caterer.
• Choose a rabbi and/or cantor to officiate
• Discuss the different elements of Jewish weddings and decide what to include.
• Book the photographer.
• Book the videographer.
• Order dress and veil. Check with your officiant about dress requirements. Does the bride need to cover her shoulders? Does the groom need to wear a kittel (white ceremonial robe)?
• Choose attendants.
• Choose a florist for the arrangements.
• Compile the guest list.
• Book musicians for the ceremony.
• Book band or disc jockey for the reception.
Four to six months:
• Reserve any rental equipment needed.
• Order kippahs and benchers if needed.
• Order wedding cake.
• Order invitations and thank-you notes.
• Choose the type of chuppah you would like. Check with your synagogue to see if it has one you can use.
• Contact the synagogue if you plan on having an aufruf the Shabbat before the wedding.
• Purchase the groom’s attire.
• Choose a ketubah.
• Decide on favors.
• Choose gifts for the bridal party.
• Hire a calligrapher, if needed.
• Reserve hotel rooms for out-of-towners.
Two to four months:
• Choose menu with the caterer.
• Purchase or make a guest book.
• Decide on the people you’d like to hold the chuppah, make the blessing over challah and read the seven wedding blessings.
• Decide on the type of decorated chairs for the bride and groom.
• Set ceremony details with rabbi, cantor.
One to two months:
• Have programs designed and printed.
• Mail invitations.
• Ask family and friends for an itinerary of Sheva Brachot dinners.
• Obtain a marriage license.
• Make plans to donate your wedding dress to charity, if desired.
• Purchase wedding bands.
• Visit a mikvah if you plan on incorporating this tradition into your married life.
Two to four weeks:
• Have final dress fitting.
• Decide on seating plan, write place cards.
• Wrap wine glass for breaking.
• Prepare candy for aufruf.
The day before:
• Ask a friend to handle all the ritual elements — ketubah, chuppah, Kiddush cups, rings and glass for breaking.
• Finalize seating.
• Start fasting at sundown to purify yourself, if you desire.