Planning · 10 min read
The 12-month South Sound wedding planning timeline
Updated November 1, 2026
Summer is peak wedding season around Tacoma, and popular venues and photographers book early. Here's a calm, month-by-month order of operations.
12–10 months out
Set your budget and draft guest list. Pick a season and a few date options. Tour and book your venue — it locks in your date for everyone else.
- Budget + guest list
- Venue
- Start a wedding website
10–8 months out
Book the vendors who only do one wedding per day.
- Photographer / videographer
- Caterer (if the venue doesn't include one)
- DJ or band
- Planner or day-of coordinator
8–6 months out
Send save-the-dates, especially for out-of-town guests who need to book flights into SeaTac. Start attire shopping — gowns can take months to arrive.
- Save-the-dates
- Attire
- Hotel room blocks
- Officiant
6–4 months out
Lock in the details.
- Florist
- Cake / desserts
- Hair + makeup trial
- Rentals and transportation
3–2 months out
Mail invitations around 8 weeks out and set an RSVP deadline about 4 weeks before the day.
- Invitations
- Menu tasting
- Write vows
- Order rings
Final month
Get your marriage license from the Pierce County Auditor (Washington has a 3-day waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days). Finalize headcount, seating, and the day-of timeline, and share it with every vendor.
Common questions
Can I plan a Tacoma wedding in less than a year?
Yes. Prioritize the venue and photographer first, consider a Friday, Sunday, or off-season date, and you'll have far more availability.
When do I need my Washington marriage license?
Washington has a three-day waiting period and licenses expire after 60 days, so apply between about 2 months and 1 week before the wedding. Check the Pierce County Auditor site for current fees.
Next steps