Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but creating a timeline can help you stay organised and on track. Wedding planning usually takes at least a year, and couples should wait at least a month after getting engaged to start. The first steps are to set a budget, pick a date, and secure a venue. The wedding dress should be chosen at least a year in advance, and save-the-dates should be sent out early. Closer to the wedding day, couples should plan for hair and makeup, photos, the ceremony, reception, meals, cake-cutting, and the first dance.
How long before a wedding?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to wait before planning | At least 30 days after getting engaged |
| Time to set a budget and pick a date | One month |
| Time to shop for a wedding dress | At least one year before the wedding |
| Time to secure a venue | At least one year before the wedding |
| Time for hair and makeup on the day | 2-3 hours |
| Time for photos before the ceremony | 2.5 hours |
| Time for the ceremony | Religious: 60-90 minutes, Non-religious: 20-45 minutes, Civil: 30-45 minutes |
| Time for photos after the ceremony | 30 minutes |
| Time for drinks reception | 1.5-2 hours |
| Time for a 3-course meal | 2 hours |
| Time for speeches | 10 minutes each |
| Time for cake-cutting | A few minutes |
| Time for the first dance | N/A |
| Time for the photographer to stay after the first dance | 30 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Planning and preparation
Planning a wedding can be a lengthy and time-consuming process, so it's important to start early and be prepared for any setbacks or changes along the way. Here are some detailed instructions for planning and preparation:
Setting a Timeline
It is generally recommended to give yourself at least a year to plan a wedding, especially if you're planning a full wedding with all the traditional events and activities. However, it's possible to plan a wedding on a shorter timeline, depending on your specific circumstances and needs. If you're just engaged, consider waiting at least a month before diving into wedding planning to simply enjoy being engaged. During this time, you can discuss your general vision, priorities, and budget for the wedding.
Creating a Budget
One of the first steps in wedding planning is creating a budget and determining how much you can afford to spend. This will involve figuring out who is paying for what and setting a bottom line. From there, you can start allocating funds to different aspects of the wedding, such as the venue, catering, attire, and decorations. It's important to be prepared for unexpected expenses and to keep track of your spending.
Choosing a Wedding Party
It's a good idea to choose your wedding party early on in the planning process so they can assist you with various tasks and have plenty of time to plan their outfits and any pre-wedding events like the bachelorette party.
Securing a Venue
Securing a venue is one of the most time-consuming and important tasks, as it will impact many other aspects of your wedding, such as the date, catering options, and number of guests. It's recommended to start searching for venues early, as they can book up quickly, especially if you're planning a wedding in high season.
Selecting a Date
When selecting a date for your wedding, consider any factors that may impact the availability of your chosen venue and vendors, as well as the convenience of your guests. If you have family or friends travelling from overseas, be mindful of any travel restrictions or peak travel times that may affect their ability to attend.
Finalising the Guest List
Before finalising your guest list, consider the capacity of your chosen venue and your budget. It's important to prioritise the people who are closest to you and whom you couldn't imagine celebrating without. Be mindful that the number of guests will impact the overall cost of the wedding, especially when it comes to catering and drinks.
Choosing Attire and Accessories
Start looking for your wedding dress or suit early, as it may take time to find the right one and any necessary alterations. The first dress fitting should be two to three months after ordering, with the second fitting taking place about six weeks before the wedding. This will also give you time to purchase any accessories, shoes, and undergarments to complete your look.
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Hair and makeup
Wedding hair and makeup is a time-consuming process, so it's important to plan and prepare a timeline to ensure everything runs smoothly. The time required depends on various factors, including the number of people, the complexity of the styles, and the type of products used. Here are some tips and suggestions to consider:
Planning and Preparation:
Before the wedding, it is advisable to create a beauty timeline that outlines when each service will be started and completed. This ensures that everyone involved, including the bridal party, is ready on time. It is recommended to consult with a professional hairstylist and makeup artist to design a schedule that suits your specific needs and requirements.
Lash Extensions:
Lash extensions are a popular choice for brides and can enhance your look. It is recommended to get lash extensions at least 2-3 months before the wedding, allowing time to work with a lash stylist to achieve your desired look. Lash extensions also require regular maintenance appointments every two weeks to keep them looking their best.
Scheduling a hair and makeup trial is essential to ensure you are happy with the final look on your wedding day. It is advisable to book your trial after getting lash extensions so you can see the complete picture. During the trial, you can experiment with different styles and products to determine what works best for you.
Skin Care:
Taking care of your skin in the months leading up to the wedding is crucial. A healthy and nourished canvas will enhance the appearance of your makeup. Establish a skincare regimen at least six months in advance, focusing on hydration and exfoliation to achieve a glowing complexion. Avoid trying new products or treatments too close to the wedding to prevent any adverse reactions.
Spray Tanning:
If you're considering a spray tan for your wedding, consult your photographer beforehand. It is recommended to book a trial run with a reputable salon to achieve the desired colour and avoid any unwanted orange tones. Schedule your spray tan 2-3 days before the wedding to allow your skin to adjust and ensure the colour is perfect for your big day.
Wedding Day Timeline:
On the wedding day, plan for bridal hair and makeup to take approximately 2 hours, including time for touch-ups and adjustments. For bridesmaids and other members of the bridal party, allow around 45 minutes per person for hair and makeup. If you have a large bridal party or an early ceremony, consider hiring additional stylists to stay on schedule.
Final Touches:
To ensure the bride's makeup lasts throughout the day, it is recommended to apply lip colour just before stepping into the wedding gown. This allows the bride to eat and drink freely without worrying about smudging or fading. Keep a small sample of the lip colour for touch-ups throughout the day and evening.
Remember to wear a button-down shirt or a light robe when getting ready to avoid messing up your hair or makeup when changing into your wedding dress. Enjoy the process, and don't forget to capture some candid moments with your bridal party during this exciting time!
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Photography
Wedding photography is an important part of your big day. It is also one of the most time-consuming elements, so it's important to plan your photography timeline in advance.
The amount of time you'll need for wedding photography depends on several factors, including the number of locations, the number of guests, and the types of photos you want. If you're having your ceremony and reception in multiple locations, you'll need to budget extra time for travel. Likewise, the more guests and family members you have, the longer you'll need for group photos.
Most wedding photography coverage typically lasts between 8 and 10 hours. However, this can vary depending on the photographer's package and the couple's preferences. Some couples may prefer more intimate photography, requiring less coverage, while others may opt for a "first look" photo, which adds extra time.
- Before the wedding: Decide on a style for your wedding photography and discuss your preferences and expectations with your photographer. Create a detailed timeline for the day and share it with your photographer and other relevant parties.
- Morning of the wedding: Allow for at least 30 minutes of photography to capture the details, such as the dress, rings, shoes, and other special items. The photographer can also take candid shots of the bridal party getting ready.
- Before the ceremony: If you're doing a "first look" photo, this is usually done about 30 minutes to an hour before the ceremony. This gives you time for couple portraits and ensures you can relax and enjoy the rest of your day. If not doing a "first look," the photographer can start taking pictures about 30 minutes before the ceremony.
- During the ceremony: The photographer will capture all the special moments, including the kiss (don't forget to count to 5 for the perfect shot!). Family portraits are usually done immediately following the ceremony while everyone is still present.
- Cocktail hour: This is the time for any remaining individual or group photos, including wedding party portraits (about 30 minutes) and family portraits (about 30 minutes for close family only).
- Reception: Allow for about 20-30 minutes for the photographer to capture the reception details before guests enter. During the reception, sneak out for a few night shots (20-30 minutes), preferably right after you grab a bite to eat or during open-floor dancing.
- After the reception: If you want an exit shot, plan for this before everyone heads back to the party.
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Food and drink
Planning
Planning the food and drink for your wedding can be stressful, but there is plenty of advice available from caterers, planners, and venues. It is also a good idea to ask for advice from friends and family who have already been through the process. Planning the menu in advance is key, and it is worth considering what equipment each dish and drink will require, as well as how you will transport and store the food.
Timing
The timing of your wedding breakfast or reception meal is important. Guests will usually start to get hungry if there is a long gap between the ceremony and the meal, so it is worth providing canapes or appetisers during a cocktail hour, or advising guests to eat a small meal beforehand. If you are having an early dinner, you may also want to provide a "late-night snack" to keep your guests' energy up, especially if drinks and dancing are involved.
Dietary Requirements
It is considerate to provide options for guests with different dietary requirements. This could include vegetarian or vegan options, as well as dishes that cater to common food allergies. It is also worth thinking about the types of food you serve and how well they will keep; you don't want a soggy buffet!
Drinks
There are a few options for providing drinks at your wedding. You could offer an open bar, with a limited selection of beer and wine, and then offer hard liquor and cocktails on a cash basis. Alternatively, you could have a cash bar, but it is important to let your guests know in advance so they can come prepared.
Food for the Happy Couple
It is important that the happy couple also eat well in the days and weeks leading up to the wedding. It is recommended to cut out refined sugars and flours, as well as beans and cruciferous vegetables, to avoid bloating, and to focus on eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates. It is also a good idea to eat regular meals and snacks on the day of the wedding, to keep energy levels up.
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Ceremony and reception
The ceremony is where your wedding day starts. It typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour. If you're getting married at a place of worship, you may be restricted to a small window of time, usually during daytime hours.
If your ceremony and reception are at the same venue, guests can head straight to the reception to start the cocktail hour. This usually lasts 60–90 minutes, allowing time for guests to fill their drinks and snack, and for the wedding party to take photos. If your reception is at a different site, make sure to account for travel time.
The reception is a critical component of your big day. It typically lasts four to five hours, though some couples opt for an extended reception to allow for more toasts, speeches, and dancing. The dinner portion of your reception will last between one-and-a-half to two hours. During dinner, there will be toasts and speeches from the best man, maid of honour, and specific loved ones. These usually take about half an hour.
After dinner, the married couple usually mingles with their guests at each table. The first dance and family dances follow, then the cake cutting and the bouquet toss. Dancing lasts anywhere between one-and-a-half and two-and-a-half hours. The last dance is usually 15 minutes before the end of the reception.
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Frequently asked questions
For the bride and a bridal party of four, it is suggested to start getting ready four to five hours before the ceremony begins. This will provide ample time for hair, makeup, and photos.
Wedding receptions typically last four to five hours, but some couples may opt for an extended reception to allow for more toasts, speeches, and dancing.
It is recommended to arrive at the wedding venue at least six hours before the ceremony start time to ensure you have enough time to get ready with some buffer time.
Your wedding reception timeline should include the time you plan to begin letting guests inside, depending on the number of attendees expected.
If you start to fall behind, a wedding planner can help get things back on track. If you don't have a wedding planner, it may be helpful to have someone on hand who isn't part of the bridal party to assist.
