The Ultimate Filipino Wedding Planning Checklist (2026)

Planning a Filipino wedding involves unique traditions, legal requirements, and family dynamics that generic checklists don't cover. Here's your complete guide.

12+ Months Before

Set your budget — discuss with both families who's contributing what
Choose your wedding date — check church availability early
Book your venue — popular Tagaytay and Batangas venues book 12-18 months out
Start your guest list — Filipino weddings average 200+ guests

9-12 Months Before

Book your photographer and videographer — top PH photographers book early
Choose your entourage — select Ninong/Ninang (principal sponsors), secondary sponsors, and wedding party
Start dress shopping — custom Filipiniana gowns need 6+ months

6-9 Months Before

Send save-the-dates — digital or physical
Book caterer and other vendors — taste testing is a must
Set up your wedding website — share your story, registry, and RSVP with guests
Build your gift registry — register on platforms your guests actually shop on (Lazada, Shopee)

3-6 Months Before

Send invitations — give guests enough time, especially those abroad (OFW family)
Plan your honeymoon — book flights and hotels early for better rates
Hair and makeup trial — schedule with your MUA

1-3 Months Before

Apply for your marriage license — visit the Local Civil Registrar
Get your CENOMAR from PSA — processing takes 6-10 business days
Complete Pre-Marriage Counseling — required by law
Attend Pre-Cana seminar — required for church weddings
Final vendor confirmations — reconfirm all bookings

Wedding Week

Rehearsal dinner — run through the ceremony with your entourage
Prepare vendor payments — cash tips for service staff
Pack for the honeymoon — don't forget your passport
Relax — you've done the work, now enjoy the day

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