Planning an Indian wedding, known for its vibrant traditions and elaborate festivities, can be a daunting task. With numerous rituals spanning several days, it's crucial to have a detailed checklist to ensure every aspect is covered. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your perfect Indian wedding:

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

• Set the Date: Consult with your families to choose an auspicious date that aligns with your religious or cultural calendar.

• Budget Planning: Establish a budget, considering all possible expenses from venues to videography and rituals.

• Create a Guest List: Indian weddings are typically large events; start building your guest list early.

• Book Venues: Indian weddings often need multiple venues for different ceremonies. Book your venues early to secure your dates.

• Hire Wedding Planners: If you're opting for a planner, now is the time to get them involved.

9-12 Months Before

• Vendor Hiring: Secure your photographers, caterers, florists, and decorators. For an Indian wedding, also consider mehendi artists and priests.

• Wedding Outfits and Jewelry: Start shopping for or customizing your wedding outfits. Pay attention to the traditional requirements for each ceremony.

• Send Save-the-Dates: Especially important for guests traveling from afar.

6-9 Months Before

• Invitations: Design and order your wedding invitations. Ensure they reflect the theme and include all necessary details of the various events.

• Menu Planning: Finalize the menu for different ceremonies, considering traditional dishes and guest preferences.

• Accommodations: Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests.

• Transportation: Organize transportation for guests, if required, for different event locations.

4-6 Months Before

• Entertainment and Music: Book DJs, bands, or performers. Consider classical musicians for traditional ceremonies.

• Honeymoon Planning: Plan and book your honeymoon.

• Ceremony Details: Start planning the specifics of each ceremony, including the sangeet, mehendi, and others. Prepare any necessary items like the mangalsutra or sindoor.

2-4 Months Before

• Trial Sessions: Schedule trials for hair and makeup. Decide on looks for different events.

• Purchase Wedding Rings: Choose and buy wedding rings.

• Finalize Event Schedules: Detail the timing and flow of events for each day.

1-2 Months Before

• Send Invitations: Mail your wedding invitations.

• RSVP Follow-up: Start confirming who will be attending.

• Final Dress Fittings: Ensure your wedding attire is perfect. Collect all outfits.

• Vendor Check-ins: Reconfirm arrangements with all vendors.

2 Weeks Before

• Guest List Finalization: Have a final headcount for the caterers and venue managers.

• Packing List: Start packing for the wedding and honeymoon.

• Beauty Treatments: Consider booking spa treatments or beauty regimens.

1 Week Before

• Ceremony Rehearsals: Conduct rehearsals for the wedding ceremony.

• Welcome Baskets: Prepare welcome baskets or gifts for guests, especially those coming from out of town.

• Final Vendor Meetings: Have a last round of meetings with vendors to ensure everything is on track.

1-2 Days Before

• Venue Setup: Oversee the setup of venues to ensure everything matches your vision.

• Rest and Hydrate: Take some time to relax and hydrate well before the festivities begin.

Wedding Day

• Enjoy Your Day: Let your planners and family handle the logistics. Your job is to enjoy every moment of this special day.

Post-Wedding

• Thank You Notes: Send out thank you notes to guests and vendors. You can share sweets, snacks or general usage return gifts. Wrapping return gift is beautiful package with couple name on it would be great.

• Legal Formalities: If needed, complete any legal formalities such as a change of name.

This checklist is a general guideline tailored for Indian weddings, which are joyous and complex events involving rich traditions and large gatherings. Customize it to suit your unique traditions, family preferences, and scale of your wedding. Enjoy the process of planning your wedding, as it is as memorable as the day itself!