Embarking on the journey of organizing a wedding is a blend of excitement and challenges. In order to have a smooth and memorable celebration, careful planning is essential. The good news is, you can navigate through every stage of the process with confidence using this wedding planning checklist, full of tips and tricks for your Columbus, OH celebration. Our venue will make sure every part of your day is given the attention it deserves – and you stay sane along the way! 

Bookmark this page so you can refer to this helpful list throughout your wedding planning process!  

Planning Timeline

12-18 Months Before – Budget Planning, Who Are Your People?, Pick A Date, Choosing Your Venue 

9-12 Months Before – Secure Essential Vendors, Wedding Attire, Invitations 

6-9 Months Before -  Plan Accommodations, Officiant and License, Décor and Theme

3-6 Months Before - Menu Selection, Lock In Your Playlist, Transportation 

2 Months Before - Time to Finalize Details, Hair and Makeup Tests, Check on Those RSVPs 

1 Month Before - Final Attire Fittings, Seating Arrangements, Wedding-Day Emergency Kit 

1 Week Before - Final Meetings, Packing, Rehearsal 

On the Big Day - Relax and Enjoy! 

12-18 Months Before

Budget Planning

Before you dive into wedding plans and succumb to the allure of online wedding trends, plan a special date night with your fiancé to pinpoint the elements that hold the utmost significance for both of you on your big day. If making sure your guests take away wonderful memories from your wedding, having a polaroid camera at each table is something to consider, so guests can take photos and leave some for you that capture the energy of the reception. For those who envision a visually stunning reception hall, allocating a budget for decor rentals may be the key. Alternatively, if you want your guests to walk away from your wedding saying, “the food was incredible!”, plan on finding a caterer who can deliver a spectacular menu for you and your guests to savor after a day of celebrating. We often receive comments like this about our in-house caterer, Together & Company, so if food is on your mind for your wedding, they’re the Columbus caterer to check out!

Remember, this celebration is uniquely yours, and you have the freedom to decide what truly matters.

Ask the right questions

And because we know it’s not every day you and your partner plan a wedding, these conversations might become tricky to navigate! Here are some example questions you can ask each other to spark inspiration at this stage in the planning process: 

• On your first wedding anniversary, what are the things you want to reminisce about together? 

• What's the best date you've had together? What details stood out to you that made it special? (Chances are, it's the same details that you'll want at your wedding!) 

• Think about a party or other weddings you attended that you both enjoyed. What were your favorite things about those events? 

Distribute your wedding funds

Once you pinpoint the aspects of a wedding celebration that hold the greatest significance for you, you'll be able to determine where to allocate your resources. Establishing a budget in addition to coming to a clear understanding of each other's priorities lays the groundwork for a wedding day with minimal stress. If you're uncertain about anticipated expenses, this article illustrates the typical breakdown of wedding costs. The two go hand-in-hand: if you know you value having live music more than artfully curated floral centerpieces, you can strategically reallocate funds accordingly. Our General Manager of Operations, Bri Barnhart, got married to her husband, Kurt, at High Line Car House a few years ago. They’re a perfect example of what it looks like to put funds towards what you value as a couple:

Who Are Your People?

Identify the individuals you fully envision being present at your wedding. As the guest list inevitably expands, you'll have a clear reference point for potential adjustments. If your budget doesn’t meet your vision to host a three-course dinner once the number of guests grows to 200 people, streamlining the guest list becomes more manageable with the foundation of the initial core people you selected. 

Pick A Date

Is there a time of year that means something special to you and your fiancé? Did you brighten each other’s spirits in the darkest of winters, making colder season dates ideal to celebrate your union? (If so, we see a hot cocoa bar in your future!) Maybe a late spring wedding suits you best, because your first kiss was under a blooming tree in the park during a picnic – the perfect source of inspiration for barbeque-themed hors d’oeuvres enjoyed on a patio for cocktail hour! 

Regardless, High Line Car House is a wonderfully romantic venue that suits any time of year you envision for your wedding. In the summer, the patio is perfect for cocktail hours after a stroll for wedding pictures through scenic German Village. In the winter, the tall, beamed ceilings and cozy industrial interior make for the warmest of celebrations. You really can’t go wrong picking a date with such a versatile venue.  

Make sure your key guests are available for this day 

Look at the list of your core people you just put together. If having them at your wedding is important, shoot them a message about some dates you're thinking of for the big day. No need to stress about this too much – the people closest to you will likely make it work no matter what! (Plus, this is why you send out save-the-dates far in advance, which we’ll get to later!) 

Choosing Your Venue 

Choosing the perfect location paves the way for a smooth wedding planning journey, especially when it's time to bring in vendors. Your chosen venue is a crucial ally in your wedding planning endeavor, particularly ones with a seasoned team. They'll be well-versed in connecting you with vendors who can offer the finest experience on your big day, reducing last-minute hassles and ensuring a seamless wedding day experience. 

Do your research and set up some venue tours. 

Venues are eager to show you around, and considering this is a significant day you're committing to, feel free to ask specific questions during the tour. We recommend asking about the venue's involvement on the actual day of your wedding. Are there extra charges beyond the booking fees and minimum pricing? What about catering; is it included in venue minimums or will you have to hire an outside catering vendor? At High Line Car House, we are a full-service wedding venue and can be as involved in organizing your event as you’d like us to be. At the end of the day, no matter how much a couple wants to outsource, each is guaranteed a dedicated, seasoned Event Designer who oversees vendors and ensures every detail is well-organized for a seamless celebration. 

What is an Event Designer at High Line Car House?

“An Event Designer helps capture your vision and brings it to life with color, design, food, and décor.” says Jackie Stielow, Event Designer at High Line Car House. “Designers are there to create an event uniquely personal for each client. We strive to make it an event that you and your guests will never forget. Think of it like an all-inclusive resort: you book with us, tell us want you want and we take care of the rest with no additional coordinator cost – pretty awesome. Many venues in the Columbus area do not include these services.”

Check date availability and book your venue! 

When you’ve had all your questions answered, your intuition will tell you which venue is the perfect fit. Once you've settled on a date, go ahead and book! This chosen date will serve as your reference point in searching for and securing your vendors.

9-12 Months Before

Secure Essential Vendors 

Selecting the key vendors for your wedding day is as crucial as picking your bridal party! As you aim to be the ultimate host, your chosen vendors play a significant role in ensuring a memorable celebration. With a track record of 25+ years in catering and event hosting, the High Line Car House team has forged strong connections with the best Columbus wedding vendors. From skilled photographers and talented cake artists to organized event planners and detailed decorators, we've curated a list for you to kickstart your planning! 

Caterer

Often underestimated, catering is a pivotal aspect of wedding planning, leaving a lasting impression on both you and your guests. Think about all the times you left an event remembering whether the food was a hit or a miss! Additionally, beyond the quality and flavor of what’s on your plate, how you’re served and cared for will be paramount on a wedding day. Feeling relaxed and ready to enjoy this special day heavily depends on how well you and your guests are attended to amid the whirlwind of schedules, photos, and socializing.

Based on what our Culinary and Events Team offers for weddings at High Line Car House, we've compiled some special considerations to ensure your best day is complemented by delectable offerings! 

• Exploring Seasonal Menus - Elevate your dining experience with caterers that offer seasonal ingredients and flavors, adding a distinctive touch to your meal. Peruse our Winter, Spring, and Summer menus for inspiration!

• Casual Vibes vs. Formal Sit-Down - Opting for a plated meal imparts a unique level of intimacy to your event, allowing guests to enjoy their food without interruptions. On the flip side, there's a certain charm to connections made in the buffet line! Consider going with a more relaxed catering approach for everyone to enjoy, particularly in the cozy setting of an intimate wedding venue like High Line Car House. 

• Midnight Snack - Ever found yourself at a wedding, feeling your stomach rumble after the tables are cleared? A late-night snack is the perfect solution to care for your guests and offers a delightful opportunity to share your story with loved ones. How about some garlic knots or pretzel bites to keep the celebration going?  

Photos by Jessica Miller Photography, Captured Photography, and Angela Edgemon Photography.

Photographer

If you aim for your wedding memories to be captured in a way that truly reflects who you are as a couple for years to come, choosing the right photographer is a significant choice! From your heartfelt vows to the dance party that goes late into the night, these moments are priceless, and the right photographer can skillfully capture them. But how do you tell if they have the skillset you need and can tell your story in the most unique way? Here are some tips on what to inquire about when looking for a photographer, directly from one of our preferred photography vendors:

How to interview your wedding photographer:

“When searching for a wedding photographer, ask them to describe their style,” says Jessica Miller Ingraham, one of our preferred photographers at High Line Car House. “How a photographer answers will be very telling in both the excitement they display and the thought they've put into their company brand. You should also have them show you complete wedding galleries. This will give an understanding of the level of consistency delivered.”

As far as checking out their skillset: “I strongly recommend you ask photographers how they shoot receptions. Arguably the hardest thing to photograph is a dark room at night. This will give you insight into the photographer's technical abilities.”

Here’s a more detailed blog post from Jessica to help further guide you in this process. Check out some of our recommended Columbus photographers and photo booths for your consideration (with examples of some of their work in the gallery below!): 

• Derk’s Works 

• Coley & Co 

• Storyteller Adams 

• Ashley West 

• Nicole Leone Miller 

• Stephanie Barnes 

• Jessica Miller Photography 

• Red Gallery Photo 

• HH Luxury Events 

Videography 

Some couples like to add a videographer into the mix to capture their big day. Although videography is typically seen as an “extra” means to record memories from your wedding, we see it more as just a different way to do so. It’s a method of storytelling that really sets in stone all the memorable things that were said by loved ones, the sound of your family’s laughter, and the silly chants you yelled on the dance floor with your closest friends. Remembering what your best man or maid of honor said to you on your special day is unmatched to an actual recording of their speeches, played over clips of your personal special moments. If you're not sure where to find a videographer that suits your own unique story, check with your venue, or even your photographer—they will both have good suggestions. If it’s hard to decide, make it a fun date night to check out portfolios and pick your top three. 

Here are a few of our favorite Columbus wedding videographers to work with:  

• Kodjo Arts – Kodjo Samana 

• Emily Shutz  

• Ezra Kim  

Florist 

Every couple envisions their wedding day differently, and flowers offer a chance to showcase personal style and tastes. A skilled florist will collaborate closely with you, grasping your preferences, themes, and taste to craft arrangements that mirror your personality and vision.  

Additionally, florists possess insights into flower availability throughout the year, assisting you in choosing the best seasonal blooms. This not only guarantees freshness but can also make your selection more budget-friendly. At High Line Car House, not only do we know some of the best florists in Columbus, but you will get to work directly with your personal Event Designer to help guide you in the right direction when it comes to floral and decor colors that suit your style best.

Take a look into some of our preferred wedding florists in Columbus: 

• Petals and Leaves 

• Madison House 

• Prema Designs 

• Andew Thomas Design 

Entertainment (DJ), Photobooth, Music  

If your main goal is to throw a lively post-ceremony bash, securing the right music and entertainment is crucial! If you have specific musical preferences and want a diverse range of genres at your wedding, going for a professional DJ is the way to go. If you're after a distinctive and unforgettable experience, opting for a live band might be your best bet. Alternatively, you might fancy some ceremonial tunes to enhance the atmosphere and emotional impact of your wedding. Some DJs offer photobooths as part of their packages, so if that’s something you’ve considered, ask the entertainment companies you interview if it’s something they offer (hiring one vendor who offers multiple services is sometimes easier than coordinating multiple, especially if they have a lot of experience!) Regardless of your entertainment choice, keep in mind that DJs and musicians can get booked up swiftly, especially during busier seasons. So, deciding on your preferred form of entertainment well in advance is essential. Check out some of our top picks in Columbus: 

DJ’s 

• Mark Dantzer 

• Josh Staley Productions 

• Buckeye Entertainment 

• Diamond Entertainment 

Bands:

• Conspiracy 

• Blue Water Kings 

• LDNL 

• Mojoflo 

Ceremony Music: 

• Fermata 

• Columbus String Quartet 

• Shaw Brothers/Andy Shaw Band 

Wedding Attire

It's the moment to pick out your dream wedding attire! Whether it's a dress, tux, or a stylish jumpsuit with a cape, whatever “suits” your vibe – now's the time to kick off the search. Starting this process 9-12 months before your wedding allows ample time for appointments, fittings, and alterations.  

When it comes to hunting for bridal attire in Columbus, we suggest checking out La Jeune Mariee, a Midwest bridal boutique known for its remarkable collection of designers and top-notch professional styling expertise. If you’re looking for a groom or gender-neutral look, Pursuit is a local old-school suit boutique with inclusive values, located in the Short North. The experienced professionals at both of these local wedding attire shops will do a fantastic job curating a shopping experience just for you amidst their diverse selections of wedding wear.

Photography by Sara Marie Photography, Photo 243, and Coley & Co Photography.

Invitations

The question we know you *love* hearing over and over – “When's the big day?” Take our word for it; it's wise to send out invitations sooner rather than later! (Plus, maybe it’ll get people to stop asking you!) Whether you opt for a custom card designer or choose an online template, this is the ideal period to place orders. If you're considering save-the-dates (which is recommended to make sure as many guests as possible on your list can attend), now's the perfect time to pick designs and send out, ensuring your guests mark your special day on their calendars. Encourage them to RSVP six months before the event to allow for any late responses before you finalize numbers with your vendors.

6-9 Months Before

Plan Accommodations 

Believe it or not, your venue can often assist in gathering a list of diverse options at different price ranges and inquire about potential group discounts. The High Line Car House Team is familiar with the area and can aid couples in assembling the most suitable lodgings and things to do for their guests.  

Here are some recommendations for reserving hotels in Columbus, (all of which offer excellent photo opportunities for you and your wedding party, by the way!): 

• Hilton Columbus Downtown 

• The Westin Columbus 

• Hotel LeVeque 

Officiant and License

Choose an officiant

Whether it's a friend or a seasoned professional, opt for someone capable of creating a warm atmosphere and making you feel at ease in front of your loved ones. If you prefer to hire an officiant, here are our recommended choices for wedding officiants in Columbus: 

• Run To An Elopement 

• United Marriage Services 

• Chase Waits Columbus Wedding Officiants 

• Lydia Strauss O’Kane 

At High Line Car House, your Event Designer will provide you with the necessary contact details, and you'll be ready to tie the knot in no time!

Secure your marriage license 

While some might think it’s ok to procrastinate this, obtaining your marriage license well ahead of time eliminates concerns about last-minute complications or the risk of lacking essential paperwork on your wedding day. Moreover, certain jurisdictions mandate that officiants be registered or possess specific permissions to conduct marriages. Checking these prerequisites in advance and acquiring the required permits ensures that your chosen officiant can legally officiate your marriage. Therefore, after selecting your officiant, it's time to move forward with obtaining that license! 

Décor and Theme

Settle on the overarching theme and decorations 

At this stage of the planning process, you may already have a sense of the atmosphere you desire for your wedding, influenced by the chosen venue. Whether your inclination is towards classic, modern, vintage, rustic, or bohemian styles, establishing a central theme that ties together your decor enhances the overall coherence, aesthetics, and memorable essence of the wedding. Again, if this is something that intimidates you, High Line Car House has an in-house Event Designer that works with each and every couple create an event decorated according to their goals. You can be as involved or removed as you like - they are happy to support you however you’d like!

From moody and romantic to bohemian and mystical, here are various ways couples have envisioned their weddings at High Line Car House: 

Photos by Coley & Co Photography, Forget Me Knot Photography, Captured Photography, J Hannah Photography.

Begin collecting necessary items.

Consult your budget to determine what will be outsourced and what you'd prefer to handle personally when it comes to decor. Some popular DIY elements for weddings include favors, guestbooks, custom cocktail signage, and memory tables. We recommend selecting 1-2 elements to take on yourself, as you don't want to overwhelm an already busy process. Remember, there are professionals for a reason! Decor tasks that might be best left to an Event Specialist or Planner include rental coordination (linens, glassware, chargers), draperies, hanging installations, and custom-themed decor. These are typically responsibilities that demand specific expertise, coordination, and attention to detail. Trust us, you won't want to be fussing over these on the day of your wedding! 

3-6 Months Before

Menu Selection

Most catering services typically require you to lock in your menu 3-6 months prior to your wedding day. While this deadline is crucial for the caterer's ordering and planning logistics, it's equally advantageous for you. This timeframe provides the opportunity to obtain accurate quotes from the caterer and make well-informed decisions regarding the allocation of funds for food and beverage services. Having the final catering menu in hand enables you to consider the dietary needs and preferences of your guests, be it vegetarian options, gluten-free choices, or specific cultural considerations. Early menu planning ensures that accommodations are made for all attendees. With our exclusive catering partner, Together & Company, involved throughout the planning process, selecting a menu with the support of our Events and Culinary Teams is a seamless process that won't even make you bat an eye about it being on this checklist! 

Photos by Angela Edgemon Photography and Devon Morgan Photography.

Lock in Your Playlist

This is the point where you'll want to confirm your playlist for a DJ or establish a set list for a band. If you're seeking advice in this realm, these vendors are well-versed in the popular hits that resonate at weddings and can assist you in making choices tailored to your guest list and the desired ambiance. 

Transportation

Finally, organize transportation for the bridal party, verifying the details and schedule for pick-up and drop-off from your hotel. Our wedding venue provides a private space with a hospitality concierge and beverage service for getting ready, allowing you to be chauffeured to the venue and take your time savoring the moments before the celebration kicks off. 

2 Months Before

Time to Finalize Details!

Approximately two months prior to your wedding, it's crucial to review and confirm last-minute details with all your vendors. The key components to verify include timelines and any adjustments in headcount with your caterer, venue, and florist. It's also an opportune moment to go over particular shots or moments you desire to be captured with your photographer, communicate personalized elements for your ceremony with your officiant, and compile a list of emergency contacts or a designated point person for your vendors in case any issues come up on your wedding day. If you choose a venue like High Line Car House, our Event Manager will automatically be those point people, making the possibility of important details falling through the cracks even less of a concern.  

Hair and Makeup Tests

If you intend to have professional hair and makeup done, it's time to set up trials! Collaborate with your stylist to refine the ideal look for your wedding. If you're unsure before the trial, bring a photo of your wedding attire and your hair and makeup stylists will gladly offer advice on the style that best complements your overall aesthetic. 

Check On Those RSVPs

By now, you should have a clear idea of who will be joining you on your special day! If there are still outstanding responses, reach out and let them know it's their final opportunity to confirm attendance. Once you have your ultimate guest count, you can share it with your venue and vendors, ticking off one more detail from your to-do list! 

1 Month Before

You're approaching the finish line! If you've been following this wedding planning checklist, here's what's left to wrap up before your big day in Columbus, Ohio: 

Final Attire Fittings 

With your wedding attire in hand for several months, it's time to ensure it fits perfectly for the big day! Consider breaking in your wedding shoes around the house to prevent any discomfort or blisters on your special day. 

Seating Arrangements 

Now that your guest list is confirmed, create and finalize the headcount and seating chart to coordinate with the venue. If you're struggling with deciding who should sit together, enlist a trusted friend to help navigate any conflicts. Ultimately, your guests will be thrilled to celebrate with you, especially with killer entertainment and an open bar – they're guaranteed to have a fantastic time regardless of their seating arrangements! 

Wedding-Day Emergency Kit 

Put together a wedding-day emergency kit, envisioning it as all the essentials for a special day trip. Include necessities like snacks, pain relievers, tissues, stain removers, deodorant, lip balm, band-aids, and safety pins. Keep it simple; if you forget something, chances are your reliable vendors or wedding party members will have what you need. 

1 Week Before

The final countdown begins! If you follow this wedding planning checklist, here’s what you’ll have left to do before your wedding day:

Final Meetings

Now is the moment to finalize all last-minute details with your vendors if you haven't already. Reiterate the designated point person in case of any issues. Review timelines with essential members, including your wedding party and any family members participating in your ceremony. They’ll want to be informed on where to be and when just as much as you want them to be! Consider having a printed copy and a digital copy for varying levels of tech savvy-ness.

Packing

The week leading up to the wedding is an excellent opportunity to prepare for the wedding night and honeymoon if you're planning to embark on one right after your big day. Confirm that all essential documents are in order for your departure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the celebrations without any concerns in this area!

Rehearsal

If you opt for a ceremony, the week before your wedding is the ideal time to conduct a rehearsal with the bridal party to ensure everyone is well-prepared. Our Event and Venue Manager is a seasoned pro when it comes to conducting rehearsals at our wedding venue, and will make you and your family feel comfortable and confident for your big day. Since all your key players are finally in one room together, the rehearsal is a great time to ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities for the upcoming day. Entrust any final tasks to reliable individuals so that you can thoroughly savor your wedding.

High Line Tip:

Take it from us - it’s completely normal for things to not go as planned on the day of your wedding. The key for it to not be noticed is to have a venue and vendor team experienced in wedding planning and execution to solve any issues that come up. Trusting in these planning partners will allow you to protect your peace and truly enjoy the celebrations. It means you’ll be in good hands if things go a little differently than planned.

On The Big Day

Relax and Enjoy! 

Cheers! You've done the groundwork, and if you've opted to collaborate with our Event Team at High Line Car house, you know that you're in capable hands. Take a moment to relish the special moments with your friends and family and immerse yourself in the joy of your celebration! 

Keeping this essential wedding planning checklist close throughout your process will support you through the intricate steps of preparing for a Columbus, Ohio wedding, leading to a seamless and unforgettable celebration. Whether you're tackling the initial budgeting or savoring the final moments of the big day, meticulous preparation and selecting an experienced wedding venue partner such as the High Line Car House makes for a stress-free and joyous occasion for both you and your guests.

We're so excited for you and your person!  

You're Not Alone In This 

Planning a wedding is an immense task, even with a detailed guide to keep you on track. If you ever catch yourself thinking, "I might have to quit my job to handle all of this!" – it’s all good. When you choose High Line Car House, we promptly connect you with your personal Event Designer, eliminating the need for constant checklist cross-referencing. Additionally, you'll have the support of an events team with over 25 years of hospitality expertise, ensuring the journey to your special day flows as smoothly as gliding down an aisle. So, rest assured, you don't have to shoulder the entire burden – and that includes not having to leave your job. 

Prepare With Our Event Professionals  

Drop us a line to meet with our Events Team and kick off the planning for your wedding!