Every couple I photograph asks me the same question at some point during the planning process: are we doing this in the right order? After attending over 500 weddings in 11 years, I have opinions. Strong ones. Here's the honest 12-month timeline I'd give my own sister if she were getting married.
12 Months Before — Lock the Non-Negotiables
- Set your date. Everything else flows from this. Auspicious dates fill up fast in Chennai — sometimes 18 months in advance for peak season (November–February).
- Book your venue. Good venues in Chennai fill up within 24 hours of a popular date opening. Don't wait.
- Book your photographer and videographer. Surprised this is so early? Don't be. The best photographers in Chennai are booked 12–18 months in advance. This is not a decision to leave for month 4.
- Set a rough budget. Before you talk to any other vendor, know what you have to spend — and what you're willing to flex on.
9 Months Before — Vendors and Vision
- Caterer: Chennai caterers with good reputations fill up quickly. Tastings should happen now.
- Décor: Start collecting inspiration images. Begin conversations with decorators.
- Priest/officiant: Especially for muhurtham-time weddings — good priests are in very high demand.
- Entertainment: Bands, DJs, and nadaswaram artists for the wedding morning.
6 Months Before — The Details
- Wedding outfits: Especially if you're having silk sarees made — weavers in Kanchipuram and Dharmavaram need 3–6 months.
- Invitations: Design, print and distribute. Digital invites have changed this somewhat, but physical cards for key guests still require lead time.
- Pre-wedding shoot: Book with your photographer and plan the location. This should happen 2–3 months before the wedding.
- Accommodation for outstation guests: Block book rooms early for peak season weddings.
3 Months Before — Logistics and Coordination
- Final vendor confirmations with written agreements
- Wedding day timeline — work with your photographer and planner to build this carefully
- Beauty trials — at least one full trial run of bridal makeup and hair
- Guest dietary requirements communicated to caterer
1 Month Before — Final Push
- Final fittings for all outfits
- Share timeline with all vendors
- Pre-wedding shoot (if not already done)
- Emergency kit preparation (safety pins, stain remover, pain relief, energy snacks)
The Week Of
Stop making decisions. Every decision should be made before this week. This week is for sleeping well, eating well, and being present for your own wedding. Delegate the logistics to a coordinator, a planner, or a trusted family member.
And when Naveen and the Thulir Weddings team arrive at your door on the morning of your wedding — just be yourself. We'll take care of the rest.
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