Ed and I have set a wedding date: Sept. 20, 2008.

So it’s real. We’re getting married. We’ve got a reception hall – or a reception pub – and a wedding date. Yikes!

Now I’m at a loss as to what to do next. A coworker who was married just a few years ago recommended that I hop online and grab one of those to-do lists. She recommended The Perfect Wedding Guide (http://www.theperfectweddingguide.com/bride_list.html). It’s out of Toronto, but a checklist is pretty much universal. I was relieved to find that even though I’m wandering in the dark, I’m pretty much on schedule.

One year before the wedding I’m supposed to:

n Determine potential dates and times for my wedding.

n Decide on the size, formality and setting of my wedding.

n Create a wedding and engagement budget.

n Reserve the locations for my wedding and reception.

n Meet with and book my wedding officiant or clergy. (Still working on this one.)

n Choose my wedding party and confirm the participants.

n Choose my wedding rings.

n Draw up an initial guest list.

n Organize my engagement party. (Opted out of this one.)

Now, I’m in the 9-12 month phase of the planning. Over the next three months, I’ll be:

n Order my wedding dress and attendants’ attire.

n Book my photographer and videographer.

n Reserve a caterer.

n Arrange for decor, chair covers and linens.

n Book your live entertainment or DJ.

n Reserve my florist.

n Order my wedding cake.

n Reserve any rental items from the rental company.

n Register my gift choices at my favorite stores. (I think I may opt out of this one.)

n Research accommodations for out-of-town guests.

n Plan my honeymoon.