AFTER THE ENGAGEMENT
Think about the type of wedding you want - a small family party or a large function, formal or informal. Choose the Date.

WHEN THE DATE IS AGREED
Contact your clergyman and arange to meet him with your partner. Confirm the date and time. Registry Office weddings cannot be booked more than three months in advance. Book the reception well in advance and arrange to confirm numbers and menu nearer the time. Book the photographers and order the cars. Choose the bridesmaid, best man and ushers - and let them know.

IN THE FOLLOWING WEEK
Draw up a guest list. Choose invitations and arrange the style and order of service, hymns and music, and the menu cards. Order your wedding cake and the necessary trimmings. Choose a venue for the honeymoon and make the necessary arrangements.

SIX TO EIGHT WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING
Visit your clergyman to discuss any details, and arrange for the banns to be called. Contact the florist to discuss the bridal bouquet and any additional flowers. Visit the bridal boutique of your choice for a final fitting. Confirm all menu details with your caterers, and pass details to the printers. Suggest to both mothers that they discuss their outfits together to avoid colour clashes. Choose your going-away outfits.

FOUR TO SIX WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING
Send out invitations at least six weeks in advance. Complete the presents list and, if necessary, leave a copy with a well known department store where most of the presents are available. Decide how your going to wear your hair and make an appointment with your hairdresser for the wedding day, and a trial run one week before. Ring florist to confirm details. Make arrangements for any overnight guests. Confirm number of cars with hire firm. Buy presents for bridesmaids and best man.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING
Ensure the bridegroom has the wedding ring, has hire a suit, and arranged the honeymoon. Make a final check with caterers about the number of guests. Have a last think about flowers, cars and photographer in case anything has been forgotten. Plan the seating for the reception, and write out the place cards.

THE FINAL WEEK
Try on your wedding dress and going-away outfit. Practice using any special make-up you plan to use. Try to arrange transport for any guests or elderly relatives who may have difficulties getting to the church and reception.

THE DAY BEFORE THE WEDDING
Pack your honeymoon suitcase. The bride should manicure her nails and attend to any other last minute beauty treatments. Prepare the bride's mother with an emergency kit of hairpins, needle and cotton and any other essentials. Go to bed early.