A month-by-month guide to planning your Smoky Mountain wedding
Wedding Planning Timeline & Checklist
A well-organized timeline is the foundation of a stress-free wedding. This month-by-month checklist is tailored specifically for couples planning a Smoky Mountain wedding at Big Lodge Weddings, with key deadlines and local considerations built in.
12–18 Months Before
The earliest phase of planning sets the foundation for everything that follows.
- ✦Set your wedding date (check Big Lodge Weddings availability first)
- ✦Book your venue — peak dates fill 12–18 months in advance
- ✦Set a preliminary budget (see our Budget Guide for Tennessee-specific costs)
- ✦Begin researching photographers and caterers
- ✦Start your guest list draft
9–12 Months Before
With your venue secured, it's time to lock in key vendors and shape your wedding vision.
- ✦Book photographer, caterer, and officiant from our preferred vendor list
- ✦Choose your wedding style and color palette
- ✦Send save-the-dates (especially important for destination guests)
- ✦Book florist and any decor rentals
- ✦Schedule engagement photos at the lodge (great for invitations)
6–9 Months Before
The details start coming together in this phase.
- ✦Book DJ or musician for ceremony and reception
- ✦Order wedding attire (allow time for alterations)
- ✦Plan rehearsal dinner — our lodge is perfect for a night-before gathering
- ✦Research Tennessee marriage license requirements
- ✦Book hair and makeup artist
3–6 Months Before
Final vendor selections and guest logistics take center stage.
- ✦Send formal invitations (include travel and lodging info for destination guests)
- ✦Finalize catering menu with your caterer
- ✦Plan ceremony details — vows, readings, music
- ✦Arrange transportation for any off-site guest activities
- ✦Order wedding cake or dessert
1–3 Months Before
The home stretch — confirm everything and finalize details.
- ✦Confirm all vendor contracts and final headcounts
- ✦Obtain your Tennessee marriage license (valid for 30 days)
- ✦Create day-of timeline and share with vendors
- ✦Final fitting for wedding attire
- ✦Prepare welcome bags for guest rooms at the lodge
Week of the Wedding
You're almost there. Time to relax and let the plan work.
- ✦Confirm arrival times with all vendors
- ✦Pack personal items, decor, and welcome bags
- ✦Rehearsal at the lodge — walk through ceremony and practice transitions
- ✦Welcome dinner with early-arriving guests
- ✦Rest, hydrate, and enjoy the moment