What timeline should I follow for booking Nashville wedding vendors? We’re 6 months out and I feel behind!”
6-Month Nashville Wedding Vendor Booking Timeline (Quick Guide)
Feeling behind? You’ve got time. Book in this order and move fast.
Weeks 0–1 (Now)
- Venue + date
- Planner/coordinator (month-of or partial)
- Officiant
Weeks 1–2
- Photographer + videographer
- Band/DJ (bands book fastest)
- Catering/bar (if not venue-provided)
- Ceremony musicians (strings/soloist)
- Key rentals/lighting (if needed)
Weeks 3–4
- Florist (repurpose ceremony florals)
- Hair + makeup (schedule trial)
- Transportation (build in traffic buffers)
- Hotel room blocks
- Order invitations (mail at 10–12 weeks out)
Month 2
- Attire + alterations (rush or off-the-rack)
- Cake/dessert
- Menu tasting; finalize bar plan
- Wedding website details (parking, shuttles, dress code)
Month 3
- Mail invitations; set RSVP deadline for 6 weeks pre-wedding
- Specialty add-ons (photo booth, live painter, audio guestbook)
- Decor/lighting final choices
Month 4
- Draft timeline + floor plan
- Shot list, music must-plays/do-not-plays
- Order signage/place cards/programs
Month 5
- Track RSVPs; build seating chart
- Final walkthrough (load-in/out, rain plan)
- Confirm transport schedules
Month 6 (Wedding Month)
- Final headcount to caterer/rentals
- Reconfirm all vendors (times, contacts, parking, meals)
- Get marriage license (valid 30 days in Davidson County)
- Rehearsal details; tip envelopes prepped
Nashville tips
- Check big-event calendars (Bridgestone, Nissan) and road closures for traffic planning.
- Confirm venue sound/curfew rules.
- Photolocs: Centennial Park, pedestrian bridge—ask about permits.