Planning an Asian wedding in the UK can feel overwhelming—multiple events, big guest lists, religious and legal requirements, and endless details to coordinate. The secret to staying stress-free? A clear timeline.
Here’s a month-by-month guide to help brides and grooms in the UK plan from engagement all the way to walima.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
- 💍 Engagement / Mangni – Agree on a tentative wedding season/date.
- Budget Planning – Sit with families and set a realistic budget.
- Venue Booking – Secure your main venue(s) early; Asian wedding halls get booked 12–18 months in advance.
- Civil Ceremony Prep – Research your local registry office and availability.
- Guest List Draft – Start a rough list to size up venues and catering needs.
Tip: Prioritise venues before outfits—your venue availability can affect your date.
9–12 Months Before
- Book Key Suppliers – Photographer, videographer, caterer, décor company, and makeup artist.
- Outfit Shopping – Start bridal & groom outfit shopping (especially if importing from abroad).
- Save the Dates – Send early notices if you’re inviting guests from overseas.
- Accommodation – Reserve hotel blocks for relatives.
6–9 Months Before
- Bridal & Groom Fittings – Confirm measurements and first fittings.
- Entertainment – Book DJs, dhol players, or live performers.
- Invitations – Finalise design and start printing.
- Travel Arrangements – Book flights for honeymoon or family travelling in.
3–6 Months Before
- Pre-Wedding Events – Plan details for mehndi, dholki, or sangeet.
- Food Tasting – Confirm menus with caterers.
- Stage Décor & Theme – Lock in designs with your decorator.
- Beauty Prep – Brides should book makeup/hair trials; grooms book grooming packages.
- Finalise Guest List – Send formal invitations.
1–3 Months Before
- Confirm Timelines – Share schedules with suppliers and family.
- Outfit Fittings – Final fittings for bride and groom.
- Accessories – Buy jewellery, shoes, turbans, dupattas, handbags.
- Seating Plan – Draft table layouts for the reception.
- Civil Ceremony – Ensure paperwork and registrar bookings are confirmed.
1 Month Before
- Final Payments – Settle balances with venue and suppliers.
- Guest RSVPs – Chase outstanding confirmations.
- Rehearsal / Run-Through – Walk through the day with your family or coordinator.
- Emergency Kit – Pack safety pins, tissues, plasters, and sewing kit.
Wedding Week
Nikah
- Ensure witnesses, imam, and paperwork are ready.
- Bride/groom outfits and rings prepared.
Mehndi / Dholki
- Decorate the venue or home space.
- Arrange entertainment (dhol players, dancers).
- Traditional food and sweets.
Baraat / Wedding Day
- Venue set up early.
- Groom’s arrival with family procession.
- Ceremony and reception meal.
- Professional photography/videography.
Walima
- Usually hosted by the groom’s side.
- Venue, catering, and décor booked in advance.
- Often a more formal but relaxed event after the main wedding.
After the Wedding
- Thank You Notes – Send to guests and suppliers.
- Returns – Return hired outfits or décor.
- Legal Paperwork – Collect official marriage certificates.
- Photo/Video Delivery – Follow up with your photographer.
Final Thoughts
Asian weddings in the UK are beautiful but complex. By following a clear month-by-month timeline, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and ensure every event—from engagement to walima—runs smoothly.
Pro Tip: Assign family members specific tasks (guest management, supplier contact, décor setup) so you can focus on enjoying your big day.
