Wedding Timeline Planning


More often than not, my couples are planning a wedding for the very first time, and it can seem incredibly overwhelming! There are a lot of unknowns:


How do you get what you ultimately desire? What are the best practices for the timeline of the day? How do you get the most out of your photography investment?

What are common mistakes to avoid? There is so much to consider and I'm here to help you make the best decisions for your day!


Overall, the most impactful decisions have to do with your wedding day timeline. I have seen poorly planned timelines wreck wedding days, and I have seen strategic timelines save wedding days when emergencies arise. If you want to focus your energy on really being intentional about one main thing in your planning process, direct that intention towards the timeline for the greatest impact! Let's get started!


1. Are You Planning a First Look?

The first and most important question to ask before you even dig into a timeline is are you going to have a first look. Either answer is perfectly fine, but this will largely affect when everything needs to occur on your wedding day. You NEED to answer this question before moving forward with your timeline planning (yes, even before planning your ceremony time and sending out your invitation)!


2. What Time Is the Ceremony?

If you are planning a first look, then great news! A ton of your photos will be done before the ceremony, so you need to plan ceremony no later than two hours before sundown (this will give you time for ceremony and family photos while the sun is still out.) If you are not planning a first look, you need to schedule your ceremony to start at least three hours (preferably more) before sundown. This is because you will need to fit in family photos, bridal party, and portraits all in between the ceremony and your reception entry.


3. What Events Do You Need Covered at the Reception?

Once you nail down your ceremony time, figure out what time the reception will begin (typically around 2 hours after ceremony start time). What do you plan to do- first dances, cake, dinner, party dancing, games, formal exit? For the reception, I recommend not worrying about a time specific schedule, but more of a natural flow that follows the mood and tone of the crowd. Know what needs to get done and just keep a mental list.


4. How Much Time Do You Need Pre-Ceremony?

The short answer--longer than you think! If you think it's going to take you 15 minutes to get into your dress, plan on a minimum of 30! This will help you feel much less rushed and more relaxed throughout the day. No one wants to be racing the clock and feeling like everything is late on their big day! Plan PLENTY of time so you can laugh and enjoy the pre-ceremony moments! Once you know what time you need to be completely dressed and ready (this largely depends on your answer to question #1), let your hair and makeup artist know what time you need to be finished, and they can let you know the best starting time.


A typical timeline that includes a first look:

2+ hours -- Getting Ready

20 minutes -- Bridal Party Photos (separate)

45 minutes -- Portraits

20 minutes -- Bridal Party Photos (Whole Group)

30 minutes -- Ceremony

30 minutes -- Family Photos

3+ hours -- Reception


(If you are not doing a first look, move portraits and bridal party whole group photos to after the family photo time)


Still feel a little overwhelmed? I get it! Talk with your wedding vendors (coordinator, photographer, videographer, etc.) and get their expert opinions! They will give you the best idea of exact times you may need.


Happy Planning Friends!