How to plan the perfect wedding day timeline
Today, I'm here to help you plan one of the most important aspects of your wedding day: the timeline! A well-structured timeline not only ensures everything goes smoothly but also allows me to capture those magical moments you'll cherish forever. So, let's dive into the art of wedding day planning!
the Wedding Pics
Morning can be a whirlwind of emotions and activity, so let's kick things off right. I always recommend giving yourself plenty of time to ease into the day. Start with breakfast and some relaxation.
Hair and Makeup
Depending on the size of your bridal party, hair and makeup can take anywhere from 2-3 hours. A tip from me to you: buffer in some extra time.
Getting Dressed
All eyes will be on you, so take your time with this. Allocate at least 30-45 minutes for getting dressed. This allows me to capture those heartwarming "getting ready" shots and all the chaos that comes with it.
First Look & Photos
Ah, the first look, one of my favorite parts of the day! It’s intimate and emotional and I get to capture your genuine reactions as you see each other in your wedding attire!
First Look and Couples Photos
Allocate about 45 minutes for this. We’ll find a beautiful, private spot so you can have a moment to yourselves. Plus, getting these photos done early means you'll have more time to celebrate with guests later!
Bridal Party Photos
After the first look, we'll jump into bridal party photos. Budget another 30-45 minutes for this. Remember, these are your pals, so let’s make it fun and full of laughter!
The Ceremony
Whether you’re getting married in a cathedral or a stunning garden, setting aside ample time for the ceremony is key. Most ceremonies last around 30 minutes, but do factor in extra time for everyone to get seated and for any last-minute hiccups!
Post-Ceremony
Family Photos
These can take surprisingly long—especially if a family member decides to wander off. Plan for about 30 minutes and come equipped with a list of must-have family shots to keep things organized.
Cocktail Hour
While you and the bridal party might be occupied with photos, your guests will enjoy mingling. It's their time to relax, so let the drinks flow and the appetizers dazzle.
Reception: Let’s Party!
Your reception is where you can finally breathe, eat, dance, and celebrate with everyone. Timelines can vary greatly depending on cultural traditions, but here’s a general outline:
Entrance and First Dances
You're officially on the dance floor. Budget around 15 minutes here, including any introductions or announcements!
Dinner
Meals typically take about an hour or more. Use this time to casually mingle between courses, my camera and I will be capturing those candid shots of smiles and excitement!
Speeches and Toasts
Aim for around 30 minutes, but keep them concise!
Cutting The Cake and Dancing
Schedule around 20 minutes for cutting the cake and any special dances. After that, it's all about the party vibes with music, laughter, and dancing the night away.
Concluding the Evening
Whether you're planning a sparkler exit or just a mellow farewell, ensure there's time for a final photo opportunity. You'll want those dreamy nighttime shots to cap off your photo album.
A Few Extra Tips:
Weather
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, always have a weather backup plan.
Vendors
Keep in touch with all your vendors to ensure everyone's aligned with the timeline.
Be Present
Most importantly, remember to soak in every moment. You've worked hard to plan this day, now it's time to live it!
So there you have it, a carefully crafted timeline ensures your day flows seamlessly. Trust in the process, trust your vendors, and remember that some of the best moments are spontaneous ones. We’re here to capture the magic, love, and joy that unfolds when you're in the moment!
Kind Words
“Sam and Sola are incredible! They were, by far, the best vendors at our wedding. However, we don’t like to think of them as vendors because we feel like they are now our friends. Our experience with them was completely personalized and our photos turned out so beautiful they brought us to tears.”