So you are recently engaged, and it is time to plan your big day! This is such an exciting time, but it can be incredibly overwhelming if you are not properly organized. According to the Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study, the average length of an engagement is 14 months This gives the couple a little bit more than a year to plan their wedding, which may seem like an ample amount of time, but this goes by very fast! To prevent you from missing important details during this time here is a comprehensive wedding planning guide that will help your day go smoothly.

14 months to nine months before the big day:
1. Keep a wedding notebook and binder so you can put all of your inspiration in one, easy to find place.

2. Establish a budget and stick to it. You will want to make a budget as soon as possible so you don't fall in love with expensive details down the road.

3. Start the guest list. While this doesn't have to be complete, you should at least be able to establish a good idea of how many people you want there.

4. Choose your bridal party. Ask your bridesmaids as soon as you are engaged, so you will have more hands on deck for the planning process!

5. Pick your date.

6. Determine if you want an inside or outside reception -- decide if you need to rent a tent, and figure out if you can afford everything that comes with it including wedding linen rentals, special wedding chairs, and all the centerpieces are in your budget.

7. Have an engagement party. If anything, this would be a great place to get ideas and inspiration.

Eight to six months before the big day:
1. Hire the photographer and videographer.

2. Buy your wedding dress -- we know, the most exciting part!

3. Start planning the honeymoon to find the best prices.

4. Send out save the date cards.

5. Choose your florist and all the floral arrangements.

6. Decide on your color scheme for the big day, including everything and anything concerning your tent rentals.

7. Go over details with your officiant.

From wedding linen rentals to bridesmaid dresses, there is so much to plan for a wedding. Keep your eyes out for the continuation of our list in the next few weeks!