In our latest blog post series, our Ocean Isle Beach wedding planners compiled a list of your wedding planning checklist from 12+ months before your wedding. And in our second blog post, we’ve made your 9-12 months before your wedding checklist for you!

• Select your bridal party and decide on your bridesmaids’ dresses. Check out our last blog post for some of the hottest beach wedding trends of 2011, including choosing a specific color rather than style for your bridesmaids, giving them the option to choose a style that is most flattering to their body type.
• Book your caterer, including paying a security deposit. As always, be aware of their refund/cancellation policy in case you need to change your date.
• Choose your band or DJ, photographer and, if applicable, your videographer. Take your time to research these especially, as you will hold onto your photos/videos as timepieces and a good band or DJ can “make or break” your reception! If the band is performing in your area, attend one of their concerts to see them in action before your big day.
• Upon receiving your RSVP’s you will have a better idea of the number of wedding guests. Reserve an appropriate amount of rooms for at three different hotels at different price points for guests to choose from. Try to book hotels that are near your reception venue.
• Sign up for your gift registry. Beware to include your fiancé in the process, which ensures you will get items both of you will actually use in the future. Choose at least three retailers and be sure to choose items from a wide price range to accommodate your guests’ budgets.
• While it is optional, launching your own customized wedding website is becoming quite popular. WeddingChannel.com is an excellent personalized wedding website that allows you to share your “story”, link to your guest registry and share photos, guest accommodations and more. 
• And what is perhaps the most fun and exciting part of all your wedding planning….it is time to start searching for your WEDDING GOWN! It may seem early to start thinking about your gown, but you need to allow time for multiple fittings and alterations. Remember that sometimes brides cling to the first dress they try on because it’s the first time they’ve seen themselves in a gown – don’t let someone talk you into a dress that is out of your budget just because it’s the first time you’ve seen yourself as a bride! Take family and friends with you and get their honest opinions as well.