The moment you get engaged, the excitement kicks in — and so does the planning. Some vendors book out over a year in advance, while others have more flexibility. Knowing the right order can save you stress, time and potential disappointment.
At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we’ve helped thousands of couples plan unforgettable weddings. Here’s the ideal order to book your vendors based on importance, demand and overall availability, starting from the very first step.
1. Your Venue (12–18 months in advance)
Your venue sets your wedding date, location and overall vision — so it should always be the very first vendor you book. From there, everything else (guest count, décor style, ceremony timing) falls into place.
Abbington’s elegant ballrooms, flexible layouts and convenient location near Chicago and Naperville make it a top choice for couples planning ahead. Once your date is secured with us, you can move confidently into the rest of the planning process.
2. Your Wedding Planner (12–18 months)
If you are hiring a full-service wedding planner, book them immediately after securing your venue. Planners help manage timelines, budgets and vendor recommendations — and the best ones get booked early.
Even if you’re not hiring an outside planner, Abbington’s in-house event team can guide you through key planning decisions from day one.
3. Photographer & Videographer (10–14 months)
Photography and videography are among the fastest-booking vendors because they can only take one event per day. If you have a particular style or artist in mind, reach out early.
- Most book up during peak season (May–October)
- Popular weekend dates often fill first
- Engagement sessions may also be scheduled
4. Officiant / Ceremony Venue (9–12 months)
If you are getting married in a church, synagogue or other religious institution, check availability right after booking your reception venue. Many officiants book well in advance, especially for holiday weekends and summer Saturdays.
5. Caterer (if not provided by your venue) (9–12 months)
At Abbington, our award-winning culinary team provides all food & beverage in-house — so couples don’t need to search for a separate caterer. But if you’re hosting additional events (like a welcome dinner or farewell brunch), you may book those caterers during this stage.
6. DJ or Band (8–12 months)
Entertainment is a major factor in the experience your guests will remember. Bands typically book faster than DJs because of limited availability, but both should be secured early if you have a preferred style or group.
- Bands may book 12–18 months out
- DJs often book 8–12 months out
7. Florist (6–10 months)
Your florist plays a huge role in bringing your wedding vision to life — bouquets, centerpieces, ceremony décor and more. High-end floral designers, or those with a signature style, often book quickly.
8. Hair & Makeup (6–9 months)
Beauty teams, especially those who do on-site styling, can only take a limited number of weddings per day. Booking early ensures you get the artist whose style matches your vision.
9. Transportation (6–9 months)
If you’re booking limousines, buses or shuttles for hotel guests, secure them early — especially if your wedding coincides with prom season, graduation or major Chicago-area events.
10. Cake Designer (4–6 months)
Cake artists vary widely in availability. Some take only a few weddings per week, while others are more flexible. Schedule your tasting early if you’re dreaming of a custom design.
11. Rentals, Décor & Specialty Vendors (3–6 months)
This includes photo booths, uplighting, draping, custom furniture, signage and other specialty elements. Booking early guarantees better selection and availability.
12. Stationery (3–6 months)
Save-the-dates should be sent 6–9 months before the wedding and invitations 6–8 weeks before — so booking your stationery vendor early ensures enough time for design, print and delivery.
13. Rehearsal Dinner & Hotel Blocks (3–6 months)
If you’re reserving a private dining room or hotel block, secure these once your guest count becomes clearer. Winter weddings often have more availability, while summer weekends near Chicago book up quickly.
14. Final Touches (1–3 months)
This stage includes small but meaningful vendors such as:
- Favors & gifts
- Welcome bags
- Transportation signage
- Late-night snacks
Let Abbington help you make the perfect vendor list
Our experienced in-house coordinating team works with trusted photographers, entertainers, florists and more — and we’re happy to share recommendations based on your style and budget. As soon as you book Abbington Distinctive Banquets, you gain access to our team’s planning expertise, preferred vendor lists and timeline guidance.
Your planning journey starts with the right venue
Whether you’re getting married in the West Chicago suburbs, Glen Ellyn or Naperville, your wedding planning begins with securing the perfect venue. Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour today and start checking off your planning list with confidence.
