Need to plan a wedding in just six weeks?
Wondering if it’s even possible?
At Zion Springs, having crafted beautiful weddings since 2010, we’re here to show you how it can be done.
With this fast-track guide, you’ll find a week-by-week plan to create a beautiful and memorable celebration, even on a tight schedule. Plus, our downloadable checklist helps keep everything on track from start to finish.
Week 1: Establish Your Wedding Foundation
In the first week, focus on building the foundation for your big day. Set your budget, choose your venue, and secure key vendors—all within seven days!
Setting Your Budget
Establish a realistic budget, including any family contributions. Flexibility is essential on a short timeline, so be ready to adjust as needed.
Remember, venue and catering often take up a significant portion, so use budget calculators or spreadsheets to stay on track.
Josh and Talia had a really short timeline of just three weeks for their wedding at Zion Springs. When looking back on their wedding planning experience, they found a silver lining in their tight schedule. "Having short amounts of time felt like we didn’t have time to dilly dally adding extra things," Josh recalled how easy it is to escalate plans, saying, "I’ve planned parties where you start off with just beer. Then you think, 'Well, we should have wine.' But then you say, 'Maybe we should have a cocktail.' That turns into three cocktails. Now just booze is hundreds of dollars, and we haven’t gotten any food yet." Talia agreed, noting the benefits of their expedited timeline, "Having a quick wedding was nice to not have to linger over dumb decisions. We filled the most important things asap and it was so much less headache." This approach, they realized, not only streamlined their decision-making process but also kept their budget in check, proving that sometimes, less time can lead to more focused and efficient planning.
Choosing the Perfect Venue
Finding the right venue is like setting the stage for your love story. It's crucial to act fast, as venues are often booked months in advance.
- Considering off-peak days like weekdays or Sundays, which have higher availability and are more budget-friendly.
- Don't shy away from non-traditional locations either – think charming barns, public parks, or even a family backyard. These can turn out to be hidden gems that offer both availability and a unique backdrop for your special day.
- When touring potential venues, ask about their flexibility with short-notice planning and what services they can provide directly. Remember, a venue that offers things like chairs, tables, and linens can save you precious time.
All-Inclusive Venues: Your Best Choice for Fast-Track Weddings
For a tight-schedule wedding, an all-inclusive venue can be a game-changer, handling most of the planning details for you. These venues often:
- Bundle key services like catering, décor, seating, and sometimes photography and entertainment
- Offer significant cost savings
- Alleviate much of the planning stress
- Provide experienced coordinators to streamline your process
An all-inclusive venue option is ideal for a quick, stress-free planning experience.
Amber and Brandon had five weeks to organize their wedding, and we helped them every step of the way. It was a huge relief for them to know that everything was taken care of, and all they had to do was show up. As Brandon says, all they had to do was "getting the rings, getting the tuxes, the dresses."
Securing Key Vendors
With your date set and guest list ready, it’s time to lock in key vendors. Consider hiring a wedding planner—they can handle much of the planning and vendor negotiations, using their industry connections to smooth out any bumps.
- Caterer
- Florist
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Musicians
- Hair and makeup
- Ceremony and reception rentals
Leverage social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to find reputable vendors and gain inspiration. Trust your instincts, and consider package deals to simplify decisions and maximize value.
Now, let’s move on to Week 2, where we’ll focus on expressing your personal style.
Week 2: Wedding Attire Shopping and Invitations
In the second week, it’s time to bring your wedding vision to life by choosing attire and sending invitations.
Finding the Perfect Attire
With limited time, consider options like:
- Off-the-rack bridal shops or suit stores
- Trunk shows or sample sales
- Department stores (e.g. Neiman Marcus or Macys)
- Thrift stores or rental shops
- Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, or heirloom pieces
For alterations, seek tailors offering expedited services, and be upfront about your timeline.
Ordering Invitations and Stationery
Your invitations set the tone, but with a tight schedule, digital invitations offer a quick, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative.
With your attire and invitations sorted, you’re ready to move on to more personal elements of your wedding.
Week 3: Beauty Arrangements and Marriage License
In the third week, it’s time to arrange beauty appointments and secure your marriage license.
Booking Beauty Appointments
Book hair and makeup appointments early, especially in peak seasons. Ask friends, family, or your venue for recommendations on trusted local professionals.
Marriage License
Check your jurisdiction's specific requirements and waiting periods, as they can vary. Many areas offer expedited options. Gather necessary documents—typically ID and any required legal papers—ahead of time.
With these essentials covered, you’re ready to finalize the details for your big day.
Week 4: Finalizing Wedding Details
This week is all about securing the final touches to make your day memorable. Focus on confirming your wedding details and checking in with catering vendors to ensure everything is on track.
Menu and Catering Confirmation
Confirm your guest count for accurate catering and communicate any dietary preferences with your caterer. If time is tight, ask for their signature or popular dishes to simplify choices. Be ready to make quick decisions, as tasting sessions may be condensed.
Week 5: Add the Final Touches for a Seamless Celebration
This week is finalizing details with vendors and preparing for a smooth rehearsal to ensure your day goes as planned.
Final Vendor Meetings
Check in with each vendor to confirm delivery times, setup details, and any last-minute adjustments. These confirmations will help avoid surprises on your wedding day.
You're now on the brink of your wedding day. Week 6 is all about readiness and excitement.
Week 6: Ready, Set, Go!
In your final week, it’s all about tying up loose ends and embracing the excitement of your big day.
Last-Minute Checklist
Ensure all vendors have final instructions and confirm delivery times. Double-check your attire, including accessories and shoes.
Designate someone to manage day-of tasks like tipping vendors or transporting gifts. Finally, take a moment to relax—everything is set, and it’s time to enjoy!
Fast wedding?
by u/annapee in wedding planning.
Take the First Step in Your 6-WeekWedding Plans
Planning a wedding in just six weeks can feel overwhelming, but with clear guidance, it’s entirely achievable. This article has broken down each week, from setting up a budget and securing vendors to adding final touches, making sure you’re fully prepared to enjoy a beautiful wedding day.
With a history of helping couples bring their wedding vision to life, Zion Springs has both the experience and passion for educating couples through every step of their wedding planning. We’re here to support you with expert advice and resources to make even the tightest timelines feel manageable.
For more tips and insights, visit our Answers and Advice page, where you’ll find articles designed to help you plan confidently and create a celebration that truly reflects your style.
7 Wedding Reception Regrets You’ll Want to Avoid—And How to Do It Right
Jennifer and Alex’s Spring Wedding
6 Things Wedding Guests Don’t Care About
