Getting Married This Year? A Realistic Wedding Planning Timeline for Singapore Couples
2026-02-03

Planning a wedding in Singapore can feel overwhelming, especially when you're juggling work, family expectations, and the desire to create a memorable celebration. The good news? With a clear timeline, you can navigate the process without losing your mind or your savings.

12 to 18 Months Before: Laying the Foundation

If you've got over a year before your big day, you're in an excellent position. Start by having honest conversations about your vision, budget, and non-negotiables. This is also the time to lock in your venue, as popular spaces like Fort Canning Park, The Fullerton Hotel, or any seaside location book out quickly, particularly during peak wedding months (March, May, September, and December).

Once your venue is confirmed, engage your photographer and videographer. Talented professionals are often booked a year in advance, and you'll want someone whose style resonates with you. Don't forget to register for your ROM slot with the Registry of Marriages. Appointments fill up fast, especially for auspicious dates.

9 to 12 Months Before: Building Your Dream Team

With the major bookings sorted, turn your attention to other key vendors. This includes your caterer (if not provided by your venue), florist, makeup artist, and wedding planner if you're using one. For hotel wedding packages, compare what's included versus what you'll need to source separately.

Start researching your wedding attire. Whether you're opting for a traditional kua or gown from local boutiques, or considering overseas purchases, give yourself time for fittings and alterations. Grooms often underestimate how long it takes to get a proper suit fitted.

This is also when you should finalise your guest list, or at least get close. Your headcount directly impacts your venue choice, catering costs, and invitation orders.

Source: Pexels

6 to 9 Months Before: The Details Come Together

Send out your save-the-dates, particularly if you're planning a weekend wedding or have guests travelling from overseas. Design your wedding website if you're creating one. It's increasingly common and incredibly practical for sharing logistics, registry information, and RSVP collection.

Book your entertainment, whether that's a live band, DJ, or traditional performers for your tea ceremony. Finalise your invitation design and place your order, allowing time for printing and addressing. If you're incorporating cultural elements like a Chinese tea ceremony or Malay traditions, coordinate with family members now to understand expectations and timings.

Meet with your caterer to discuss menu options, dietary requirements, and table arrangements. If you're having a cocktail reception or gatecrash games, start planning these elements.

3 to 6 Months Before: Nailing Down the Specifics

Your invitations should go out around three months before, giving guests adequate time to respond whilst keeping your wedding top of mind. Set a clear RSVP deadline (about three to four weeks before the wedding) to allow time for final headcount confirmations.

Book your wedding night accommodation and honeymoon. Singapore couples often favour Bali, the Maldives, or Japan, but wherever you're heading, booking early means better rates and availability. Don't forget to arrange necessary vaccinations or visa requirements if travelling abroad.

Schedule your makeup and hair trials, and finalise all beauty treatments. Many brides book regular facials leading up to the day, whilst some couples opt for teeth whitening or other cosmetic enhancements. Book these appointments now to avoid last-minute stress.

Apply for your marriage licence at least 21 days before your ROM. You'll need to attend a brief interview together at the Registry of Marriages, so plan accordingly.

1 to 3 Months Before: Final Touches

Confirm all vendor arrangements in writing. Create a detailed day-of timeline and share it with your vendors, family members, and wedding party. This should include setup times, ceremony start, photo session schedules, and reception flow.

Arrange your wedding favours and welcome gifts if you're having them. Local favourites include artisanal biscuits, local coffee blends, or personalised tokens that reflect your relationship.

Have your final dress and suit fittings. If you're losing or gaining weight from wedding stress (it happens), this is when adjustments are made.

Create a seating chart. This is one of the trickier tasks that requires diplomacy and strategic thinking, especially when managing family dynamics and friend groups.

Final Month: The Home Stretch

Finalise your vows if you're writing your own, and confirm ceremony readings with anyone who's participating. Break in your wedding shoes. There's nothing worse than blistered feet on your big day.

Confirm final headcounts with all vendors and settle outstanding payments. Prepare your vendor tip envelopes and assign a trusted friend or family member to distribute them on the day.

Pack for your honeymoon and arrange someone to handle your home whilst you're away. Water plants, collect mail, feed pets. Sort these logistics before you're swept up in wedding day chaos.

Source: Pexels

The Week Before: Deep Breaths

Attend your ROM if you're doing it separately from your wedding celebration. Many couples opt for an intimate ROM with immediate family, followed by a larger celebration weeks or months later.

Confirm all final details with your venue and vendors. Do a final walkthrough if possible. Delegate responsibilities to your bridal party or family members for the actual day. You can't manage everything yourself.

Most importantly, rest. Get manicures, massages, and early nights. Your wedding day will arrive whether you're stressed or calm, so choose calm.

Remember, this timeline is a guide, not gospel. Every couple's journey is different, and flexibility is key. What matters most is celebrating your commitment surrounded by people you love. 

Ready to start ticking off your wedding planning checklist? Discover everything you need for your dream wedding at our tri-annual wedding showcase, featuring over 70+ vendors and exclusive event deals! RSVP now at www.bows.sg and stay inspired with the latest wedding happenings at www.blissfulbrides.sg.