Have you ever panned a wedding? Most professional event planners can tell you that it feels like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle—exciting but oh-so-stressful if you don’t have a solid plan. If you’ve decided to plan your own big day or is helping someone else pull off their dream ceremony, one thing’s for sure: you need a wedding planning checklist to keep things from going off the rails.
Picture this: You’ve got your heart set on a charming garden wedding in Kiambu. Think twinkling fairy lights, a cozy aisle lined with flowers, and maybe 100 of your closest friends and family. Sounds dreamy, right? But then, out of nowhere, you realize you forgot to book a caterer. Or worse, you didn’t even think about chairs for your guests. Suddenly, your stress-free vision is crumbling.
That’s where a wedding planning checklist comes in handy. It’s your sidekick, your go-to guide, your “don’t forget this, don’t mess that up” lifesaver. Trust that even simple ceremonies need a plan because there’s a lot to think about.
That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate wedding planning checklist for first-timers like you. It’s thorough, it’s inclusive, and it’s designed to make sure nothing—and I mean nothing—falls through the cracks. So, grab a notebook, and let’s get this party started—bila stress, of course.
Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist in Kenya for Beginners
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This wedding planning checklist covers everything you need to plan a great wedding, from budgeting to ensuring the kids are cared for during the couple’s honeymoon.
1. Budget (Timeline: 9-12 Months Before the Wedding)
First things first, sit down and figure out how much money you’re working with. This is the backbone of your wedding planning list. Start by listing all the things you’ll need: wedding dress, DJ, caterer, etc. Don’t forget to include an “emergency” category for those unexpected expenses (because they will pop up).
If you’re getting help from family, friends, church group, or your chama, have that conversation early. Know who’s contributing what, and be clear about it. Stick to this budget like you’re trying to avoid eating njahi for the next six months to recover.
2. Theme (Timeline: 9-12 Months Before the Wedding)
Now, let’s talk about the theme. Keep it simple, especially if you’re going for a garden wedding. Your theme is basically your color scheme. Make sure it’s something good because these colors will guide your event and decor choices.
Once you’ve picked your colors, write them down and keep them handy. Every time you’re choosing something—tablecloths, flowers, bridesmaids’ dresses—refer back to your theme.
3. Wedding Party (Timeline: 8-10 Months Before the Wedding)
Think bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and maybe even that one cuzo who’s great at cracking jokes when things get tense. But don’t go overboard. Keep it small and meaningful. Once you’ve got your core team, let them know early.
4. Guest List (Timeline: 8-10 Months Before the Wedding)
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You want to invite everyone, but your wallet and venue size might have other plans. Start by making a list of all the people you must have there—immediate family, your shoshos, and close friends. Once you’ve got your “must-haves,” add the “nice-to-haves” if there’s still space. If you’re keeping it to 100 guests, stick to it.
5. Invitations (Timeline: 6-8 Months Before the Wedding)
Once your guest list it’s time to send out the invites. You’ve got options—paper invites, digital invites, or even WhatsApp messages if you’re keeping it casual. Whatever you choose, make sure it includes all the important details: date, time, venue, and RSVP instructions.
6. Wedding Venue
- 9-12 Months Before the Wedding: Make a list of potential venues. Think about places that match your theme and budget. For example, gardens along Kiambu Road, or conference halls in Nairobi.
- 8-10 Months Before the Wedding: Compare the venues based on cost, location, and what they offer. Remember, Karen prices are not the same as Nanyuki prices.
- 7-9 Months Before the Wedding: Book that venue ASAP! Make sure you get everything in writing—the date, time, cost, and any extras you’ve agreed on.
- 1-2 Months Before the Wedding: Double-check the setup, the timeline, and any rules they have (like noise restrictions or decor limitations).
7. Wedding Vendors
- Decor, 6-8 Months Before: Start by finding a florist who gets your vision. Don’t forget signage (like welcome boards or table numbers) and drapes if you’re going for that extra touch.
- Catering, 6-8 Months Before: Catering, 6-8 Months Before: Food is the heart of any Kenyan event, so make sure they can handle everything, including dietary restrictions. Also, confirm if they provide cutlery, plates, and serving staff.
- Photographer and Videographer, 6-8 Months Before: Look at their past pictures to see if their style matches what you want. Make sure they know your must-have moments.
- Tent and Chairs, 4-6 Months Before: Choose a tent that fits your guest count and matches your decor. Don’t forget chairs—comfortable ones.
- Entertainment and MC, 4-6 Months Before: Check out the DJ or band’s playlists and see them perform if you can. For the MC, pick someone who’s funny but not too extra.
- Cake, 3-4 Months Before: Schedule a tasting session and decide on the design, size, and flavors.
8. Wedding Attire (Timeline: 6-8 Months Before the Wedding, Final Touches 1-2 Weeks Before)
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- Wedding Dress & Suit: If you’re buying, check out local bridal shops along River Road, online stores, or even second-hand options (Kenyan TikTok has many!). If renting, book early—those good ones get snatched fast.
- Wedding Party Outfits: Coordinate with your bridal party. Let them choose styles they’re comfortable with.
- Makeup & Hair: Do a trial run with your makeup artist weeks before to avoid surprises. If you’re doing your own, practice!
- Wedding Rings: Order them at least three months in advance to allow resizing.
9. Transportation (Timeline: 3-6 Months Before the Wedding)
- Wedding Party Transport: Will they come in their own cars? Will you hire a van? Is the local primary school giving you their bus? If you’re using personal cars, confirm who is bringing what to avoid a situation where two people show up in a Prado while the rest are stuck at home.
- Out-of-Town Guests: Help them with directions, matatu stages, or even carpooling options.
10. Legalities (Timeline: 2-6 Months Before the Wedding)
- Marriage Certificate: If you’re going the civil route, book an appointment at the Attorney General’s (AG) office. If it’s a church or customary wedding, they’ll guide you on what’s needed.
- Licenses & Permissions: Some venues need noise permits—yes, even for weddings, especially in Nairobi. Confirm with the venue management to avoid drama on the big day.
- Officiant: Religious leader, AG official, or licensed celebrant—book them at least three months before and reconfirm two weeks before so they don’t “forget.”
11. Pre-Wedding Celebrations (Timeline: 1-4 Weeks Before the Wedding)
- Bridal Party Plans: It could be a simple lunch or a night out 1-2 weeks before to relax before the big day.
- Wedding Rehearsals: Do a quick run-through at least one week before—where does the bride walk in? Where does the best man stand? Who is holding the rings?
- Morning-of-Wedding Food: Organize light snacks and drinks for the bridal party a day before—mandazis, samosas, uji, fresh juice, simple but filling.
12. Post-Wedding Plans (Timeline: 2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding)
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- Clearing Vendor Balances: If you negotiated to pay vendors in installments, arrange for someone trustworthy to clear the balances after the wedding.
- Honeymoon Plans: If there is traveling involved, confirm at least one month before that all bookings are set. Double-check passports, transport, and accommodation.
- House, Kids, and Pets: If you or the couple is leaving town, arrange for someone to check on the house, take care of the kids, and care for pets and plants.
13. Miscellaneous (Timeline: 1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding)
- Check the Weather: Don’t assume the weather will behave; not in this Nairobi! Check the forecast one to two weeks before. Plan for the unexpected.
- Sewing Kits & Emergency Fixes: Pack a small sewing kit with needles, thread, safety pins, and double-sided tape (which you can find along River Road sewing shops). Also, have wet wipes, painkillers, and extra hairpins.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
With the right wedding planning checklist, a bit of patience, and a few deep breaths, you’ll pull off a beautiful, stress-free day. Remember—the most important thing is celebrating love. Things may not go 100% as planned, but as long as you’re surrounded by good vibes and happy people, the wedding will be perfect.
