By the Bali Wedding Queen team in Uluwatu · Updated October 2026
In shortStart a Bali wedding 9–12 months ahead: set your budget and date, book the venue and planner and send save-the-dates. At 6 months book photographer, styling and guest accommodation; at 3 months finalise menu, ceremony and timeline; and arrive in Bali 3–5 days before the big day.
12 months before
9 months before
- Send save-the-dates with travel information.
- Reserve rooms for guests – at Bella Vida they can stay at the venue.
- Book photographer and videographer.
- Start a wedding website or share our guest guide.
6 months before
- Choose styling, colours and flowers with your planner.
- Book music, Balinese dancers or a blessing.
- Buy wedding attire – choose light, breathable fabrics.
- Book flights and plan your honeymoon.
- Send formal invitations (4–6 months ahead).
3 months before
- Finalise menu and drinks package.
- Write your vows and agree on the ceremony with your celebrant.
- Confirm guest numbers and dietary requirements.
- Legal wedding: have all documents translated and legalised.
- Arrange airport transfers and guest transport.
1 month before
- Final timeline for the day, including sunset time.
- Seating plan and table names.
- Pay remaining balances.
- Pack: rings, vows, outfits, documents, gifts.
The final week
- Arrive 3–5 days early.
- Venue walk-through and rehearsal with your planner.
- Hair & make-up trial; spa treatment.
- Welcome drinks or dinner with your guests.
On the day
- Sleep in, light breakfast, stay hydrated.
- Hand rings and vows to your coordinator.
- Ceremony 75–90 minutes before sunset.
- Golden-hour photos – then enjoy your dinner and party.
Tip: print this page (Ctrl/Cmd + P) for a handy paper checklist.
Frequently asked
How far in advance should we plan a Bali wedding?
Ideally 9–12 months for a wedding with guests, so they can book flights and you can secure your date in the dry season. An elopement can be planned in a few weeks to 3 months.
When should we arrive in Bali before the wedding?
At least 3–5 days before: to recover from jet lag, do a final venue walk-through, meet your planner and enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner. For a legal wedding in Indonesia, plan extra working days for paperwork.
When should we send save-the-dates?
For a destination wedding, send save-the-dates 9–12 months ahead and formal invitations about 4–6 months before the date.
