**How Long Does Wedding Planning Really Take?**

(As always... it depends.)

So, how long does it take to plan a wedding?

Here’s the honest answer that luxury planners across the country (including us!) stand by:

It depends.

On your location.
Your budget.
Your style.
Your priorities.
Your vision — whether it’s an all-out wedding weekend with multiple events or an intimate ceremony with just your inner circle.

There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. Every wedding is unique, and your planning journey should be too.

Let’s break it all down so you know what to expect (and what’s totally possible), whether you’re planning two years out or two months away.

The Short Answer:

Luxury weddings typically take 12–18 months to plan.

This window gives you the time and space to book top-tier vendors, design an elevated guest experience, and actually enjoy the process without feeling rushed.

But…

As Always — It Depends

Here’s a closer look at what different planning timelines really look like, with insights from top luxury wedding planners across the U.S.

✨ 18 Months — The “No Compromises” Timeline

Planners from New York, Scottsdale, LA, and beyond agree: 18 months is ideal for full-service, elevated weddings with multiple events or custom design moments.

With 18 months, you can:

Lock in your dream venue on your perfect date
Secure the most in-demand vendors (they book fast!)
Explore creative and personal design elements
Enjoy a stress-free planning experience without pressure

This is the “sip champagne and trust the process” kind of planning we love

Want to work with us? Inquire Here

✨ 12 Months — The Sweet Spot

This is the most common (and comfortable) timeline for couples planning a high-end celebration. One year is enough time to be thoughtful without dragging things out.

With 12 months, you’ll:

Have strong vendor availability
Make design decisions at a relaxed pace
Be able to include special touches without overwhelm

We call this the “goldilocks” zone — not too long, not too short, just right.

✨ 6–9 Months — The Confident Countdown

If you’re decisive, know what you want, and have a planner guiding the way (that’s us!), a luxury wedding can absolutely come together in under a year.

With this timeline:

You'll need to move quickly on big decisions
Some vendors or venues may be booked
Your planner will be your secret weapon

It’s fast, but it’s still fabulous.

✨ Less Than 6 Months — The Bold Move

Planning a wedding in under six months takes confidence — and a solid team behind you.

Here’s what that looks like:

Simplicity is key (think elevated minimalism)
Availability may be limited, but magic is still possible
We build a fast-moving timeline and keep you grounded

If you’ve got the vision, we’ve got the strategy. It can absolutely be done — beautifully.

What Do Luxury Planners Across the U.S. Say?

Whether you're talking to a planner in Charleston, Chicago, Los Angeles, or Phoenix, the consensus is this:

Start early if you want the first pick of everything.
Give yourself breathing room for design changes or unexpected pivots.
The more layers your event has (multi-day, travel logistics, specialty builds), the more time you’ll need.
And above all — work with a planner you trust.

TL;DR?

As always… it depends.

At Emerald Grace, we don’t fit you into a timeline — we build one around you.

Whether you’ve just said “yes” and want to soak it in, or you’re ready to hit the ground running, we’re here to create a planning experience that’s calm, chic, and completely tailored to your love story.

Ready to talk timelines?

Let’s make your dream wedding feel real.
💌 Contact Us or check out our Planning Services. Your beautiful beginning starts here.

Inquire Here

How long does Wedding Planning take?

How Long Does Wedding Planning Really Take?