Not every vendor books on the same timeline. In summer a chateau may be full 18 months ahead, while a local florist still takes requests at 4 months.
The order below reflects what we see in France, especially for 80 to 150 guests in peak season. Adjust for off-season dates or smaller formats.
Recommended booking order
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1. Reception venue: 12 to 24 months out (locks date, capacity, hours)
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2. Photographer (and videographer if needed): 9 to 15 months
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3. Caterer or venue catering package: 6 to 12 months
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4. DJ, band, or entertainment: 6 to 9 months
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5. Florist, decor, beauty: 4 to 9 months depending on local demand
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6. Transport, cake, secular officiant: 3 to 6 months
Why the venue comes first
Without a confirmed venue you do not know headcount limits, caterer hours, or whether rain pushes you indoors.
Many venues require partner caterers. Booking a caterer before the venue sometimes means a quote for an incompatible room.