Every wedding I’ve had the privilege to attend and film has been guided by a meticulously crafted timeline. Such a timeline is instrumental in ensuring a smooth flow of the day’s events and maintaining a steady pace.
Here’s a sample timeline for a wedding and reception taking place at the same venue, with the ceremony kicking off at 5:30pm. Remember, this is merely a FRAMEWORK for your day. If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, don’t forget to factor in travel time in your timeline.
12:00 PM: Arrival of the photographer and videographer. This is the perfect time to capture the bridal party getting ready, along with detail shots. Simultaneously, the groom and groomsmen should also be preparing.
2:15 PM: The women are almost done with their hair and makeup. Capture shots of bridesmaids in matching robes.
2:30 PM: The bride gets dressed.
2:45 PM: Time for bridal portraits.
3:15 PM: Bridesmaid photoshoot.
3:30 PM: The first look.
3:30-4:10 PM: Portrait photos of the couple.
4:10-5:00 PM: Photoshoot with the wedding party and family.
5:30 PM: The wedding ceremony begins.
6:15-7:15 PM: Cocktail hour.
7:00 PM: Sunset photos.
7:15 PM: Guests are invited to dinner.
7:30 PM: Bridal party entrance and first dance.
7:30-7:45 PM: Welcome toasts.
7:45-8:30 PM: Dinner.
8:30-8:40 PM: Toasts.
8:40-8:50 PM: Parent dances.
8:50-9:15 PM: Cake cutting, bouquet toss, garter toss.
9:15 PM: Open dance.
11:30 PM: Grand exit.
Remember, this timeline should be adjusted to fit your day and your specific events. For instance, you may choose to skip the first look or garter toss. Also, keep in mind that sunset photos may need to be taken at 4pm during winter months, so adjust your timeline accordingly.
Jesse James, a multi-time Wedaward-winning destination wedding photographer, is here to document your love story against the backdrop of your dream location.
FAQ
How do I create a timeline for my wedding day?
Creating a timeline for your wedding day involves listing all the events that will take place, from getting ready to the grand exit, and allocating a specific time for each. Remember to factor in travel time if your ceremony and reception are at different locations.
What should I include in my wedding day timeline?
Your wedding day timeline should include all the key events of your wedding, such as getting ready, bridal portraits, the first look, the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, toasts, dances, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and the grand exit. You can also include any unique events specific to your wedding.
How much time should I allocate for each event in my wedding timeline?
The amount of time to allocate for each event in your wedding timeline can vary. For example, you might need about 15 minutes for the first look, 30-60 minutes for portrait photos, 30 minutes for the ceremony, and 1 hour for cocktail hour. However, these times can be adjusted based on your specific needs and the flow of your day.
When should I start getting ready on my wedding day?
The time you start getting ready on your wedding day can depend on the time of your ceremony and the number of people in your bridal party. In the sample timeline provided, the bridal party starts getting ready at 12pm for a 5:30pm ceremony.
How can I ensure my wedding day timeline runs smoothly?
To ensure your wedding day timeline runs smoothly, it’s important to be realistic about how much time each event will take and to build in some extra time for unexpected delays. It can also be helpful to share your timeline with your wedding party, vendors, and coordinator to make sure everyone is on the same page.
