How to Plan a Wedding in Sri Lanka: The Complete 12-Month Checklist

Planning a wedding in Sri Lanka is one of the most exciting — and most overwhelming — projects you will ever take on. Between the poruwa ceremony, the homecoming, multiple outfits and hundreds of guests, there is a lot to coordinate. This month-by-month checklist breaks it all down so nothing falls through the cracks.

12–10 months before: foundations

• Set your total budget and agree who is contributing. This single decision shapes every choice that follows.
• Draft a rough guest count. In Sri Lanka guest lists often run 300–600, which directly drives venue and catering costs.
• Pick two or three possible dates. Avoid the monsoon peaks (May–June and October–November on the south-west coast) if you want an outdoor or beach wedding.
• Shortlist and visit venues. The best hotels and banquet halls in Colombo, Kandy and the coast book out 9–12 months ahead.

9–7 months before: lock the big vendors

• Book your photographer and videographer. Top professionals are reserved first — read reviews and view full albums before deciding.
• Confirm your venue and caterer with a signed agreement and deposit.
• Book your dressmaker or bridal house for the bride's saree/dress and the going-away outfit.
• Reserve a makeup artist whose portfolio matches your skin tone and style.

6–4 months before: the details

• Finalise decor and florals, the poruwa design, and your colour theme.
• Order invitations and arrange your wedding cake.
• Book music — a band, DJ or traditional drummers and dancers for the entrance.
• Arrange wedding cars and guest transport.

3–1 months before: confirmations

• Send invitations 6–8 weeks ahead and start tracking RSVPs.
• Attend dress fittings and a makeup/hair trial.
• Give the venue your final headcount and seating plan.
• Confirm timings in writing with every vendor.

The final week

• Prepare payments and tips in labelled envelopes.
• Pack an emergency kit — safety pins, tissues, a phone charger and snacks.
• Delegate a trusted friend or family member to be the day-of point of contact.
• Rest, hydrate and enjoy — the hard work is done.

The easiest way to stay on schedule is to compare and book trusted professionals in one place. Browse verified photographers, venues, decorators and more, read genuine reviews, and send free inquiries to your favourites.