Your Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline at Riverside Country Estate
- jordan2107
- Aug 11
- 4 min read
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with the right timeline and the perfect venue, it becomes a joyful, stress-free experience.
At Riverside Country Estate, a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in Gauteng with river views, we’ve helped hundreds of couples turn their vision into reality. Our expert planning team ensure your day is as beautiful as it is seamless.
This step-by-step wedding planning guide will help you stay on track.
12+ Months Before: Setting the Vision for Your Wedding
Where should I start when planning my wedding?
The first step is creating a clear vision and securing your dream venue.
Set Your Budget - Decide what you’re comfortable spending and stick to it.
Draft a Guest List - Helps determine your venue size and catering requirements.
Choose Your Dates - Pick a few options in case your first choice is booked.
Book Your Wedding Venue - Riverside Country Estate offers three stunning venues, from our intimate Willow Hall to the grand Wisteria Hall and our magical Open Air Chapel with riverfront ceremony spots.
Consider a Planner - Our in-house coordinators guide you every step of the way.
Gather Inspiration - Use Pinterest or mood boards to capture your theme, colours, and décor ideas.
9-11 Months Before: Securing the Essentials
Book Key Vendors - Photographer, videographer, entertainment, and catering (our in-house catering team is included in most packages).
Choose Your Wedding Party - Invite bridesmaids, groomsmen, or anyone special to stand by your side.
Start Dress Shopping - Allow time for ordering and alterations.
Send Save-the-Dates - Especially for out-of-town guests.
Plan Accommodation - Riverside offers on-site guest accommodation for added convenience.
6-8 Months Before: Details & Design
Finalise Guest List - Start collecting RSVPs.
Choose Bridal Party Attire - Dresses, suits, and accessories.
Select Flowers - Our in-house florist can create bouquets, centrepieces, and ceremony décor.
Order Invitations - Allow time for design and delivery.
Plan Your Menu - Collaborate with our chefs for a personalised menu.
Book Your Officiant - Secure your marriage celebrant.
Arrange Transport - If needed, organise travel for guests or the wedding party.
4-5 Months Before: Adding Personal Touches
Purchase Rings - Allow time for engraving.
Set Up a Registry - For gifts from friends and family.
Book Honeymoon - Flights and accommodation.
Choose Your Cake - Attend tastings and finalise the design.
Schedule Hair & Makeup Trials - Lock in your bridal look.
2-3 Months Before: Final Preparations
Send Invitations - Include RSVP deadlines.
Write Vows - If personal, start drafting now.
Finalise Music - Choose ceremony and reception playlists.
Purchase Wedding Favours - Small keepsakes for guests.
Create Seating Plan - Give yourself plenty of time.
Confirm Details with Vendors - Double-check timing and requirements.
1 Month Before: The Countdown Begins
Final Dress Fitting - Ensure a perfect fit.
Get Marriage License - Follow local requirements.
Create a Timeline - Share with vendors and the wedding party.
Prepare Final Payments - Organise payments due before or on the day.
1-2 Weeks Before: Relax and Enjoy
Pick Up Dress or Suit
Confirm Guest Numbers - Share with the caterer and venue.
Assign Post-Wedding Tasks - Someone to collect gifts and décor.
Pack for Honeymoon
Pamper Yourself - Book a spa day or beauty treatments.
The Day Before Your Wedding
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Eat Well & Stay Hydrated
Drop Off Final Décor at Venue
Rehearse Ceremony - Ensure everyone knows their role.
Take a Moment - Enjoy the excitement with your partner.
Your Wedding Day at Riverside Country Estate
Eat Breakfast - Keep your energy up.
Allow Extra Time to Get Ready
Trust Your Team - Our Riverside coordinators have everything under control.
Savour Every Moment - This is your day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Planning at Riverside
How far in advance should I book Riverside Country Estate for my wedding?
We recommend 12-18 months in advance for peak seasons, but winter and weekday dates may be available sooner. Our amazing team has planned a wedding in two weeks, so we are prepared to help you with any timeline!
Can I have both my ceremony and reception at Riverside?
Yes! We offer beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces so you can host your entire day in one location, with riverfront photo opportunities year-round.
Do you offer all-inclusive wedding packages?
Yes. Our packages include venue hire, catering, décor, coordination, and more - all clearly priced with no hidden costs.
Can Riverside help me find reliable wedding vendors?
Absolutely. We work with trusted photographers, florists, DJs, and more to make your planning process stress-free.
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding...
At Riverside Country Estate, we’re more than just a wedding venue in Gauteng - we’re your partner in creating an unforgettable celebration. From our picturesque river views to our expert coordination services, every detail is handled with care.
Ready to start your wedding journey?
Book a private tour today and see why Riverside is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in South Africa.
078 434 8457
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
About the Author: Luyanda Khumalo
Luyanda Khymalo is one of our dedicated and detail-oriented Riverside Country Estate wedding coordinators. With a passion for creating unforgettable celebrations, she works closely with each couple to bring their vision to life, from the first planning meeting to the final dance. Known for her warm approach and meticulous attention to detail, Luyanda ensures every Riverside wedding runs seamlessly, leaving couples free to enjoy their perfect day.
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