It is one of the most exciting times of your life getting married and our top tip is to get organized. Follow our comprehensive checklist and timelines and you will be able to coast through the planning with no stress.

Consider a wedding planner as they have done this numerous times before and may not cost you any money. Many planners have developed strong relationships with suppliers and the discounts they have negotiated will help fund their role.

Do It Straight Away

1. Announce your engagement to friends and family, you may consider a party to celebrate this. Your wedding plans can start in earnest after this party.

2. Set your budget. Wedding costs can vary dramatically. Once your budget is set you will be able to work out what your priorities are and what you will need to compromise on. It is a good idea to open a separate bank account of the wedding.

3. Decide on the number of people to invite. Write your guest list. Decide on best man, maid of honour, bridesmaids and ushers.

4. Write a list of possible dates. Review availability of venues for reception and ceremony and registrar and service. Book early to get the best choice of dates.

5. Shop for your dress. Organize meeting with florists, musicians and have tastings with caterers.

8 Months Before

1. Order your wedding dress, accessories and bridesmaid dresses.

2. Book your caterer, florist and musicians.

3. Book entertainment for the day; remember to cater for the children.

4. Research your honeymoon.

5. Organize some tastings with wedding cake makers.

6. Review you beauty regime.

7. Book a photographer and consider a video for your wedding.

8. Consider taking out wedding insurance.

6 Months Before

1. Book transport for the day.

2. Order stationary for invites.

3. Order your cake and discuss flower requirements with your florist.

4. Organize and book accommodation for the wedding night.

5. Order best man and grooms suits.

6. Purchase your wedding rings.

4 Months Before

1. Confirm you wedding menu with the caterer.

2. Discuss plans with your photographer for photos to be taken.

3. Meet with your officiant and discuss the plans for your ceremony.

4. Plan your hairstyle and makeup for the day.

5. Book a time for a wedding and dinner rehearsal.

6. Send out your invites; keep a list of all people invited.

7. Make a gift list.

2 Months Before

1. Confirm flowers, arrange table decorations

2. Make your wedding program and print it out.

3. Check with brides and ushers that they have their outfits and confirm times.

4. Confirm details for caterer, florist, musicians, photographer, cake baker, hotels, transport and accommodation.

5. Check guest lists and organize seating for the day.

6. Confirm details for your honeymoon. Purchase currency and check passports are valid.

7. Organize your final dress fitting.

1 Week Before

1. Pack for your honeymoon.

2. Enjoy a manicure, pedicure and a massage to relax you before your big day.

On the day make sure you have delegated tasks to a key group of people so that you can enjoy yourself in the knowledge that everything will run smoothly.