Planning Your Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but creating a timeline for the big day can help keep things running smoothly. A wedding day timeline is a detailed schedule that maps out the flow of the wedding and ensures that all the different elements come together harmoniously. It is important to start by picking the start time for the reception and ceremony, and then working backwards from there. This will involve choosing a getting-ready start time, planning out dinner, building in transition time, and adding in vendor setup and departure times. It is also crucial to consider the time needed for photos, whether that is before the ceremony or during the cocktail hour. By creating a comprehensive timeline, you can ensure that your wedding day is stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your guests.

Hair and makeup

Timing

The timing of hair and makeup will depend on several factors, including the size of your bridal party and how many people are receiving these services. As a general rule, allow around 30 minutes per person per session (hair or makeup). So, for example, if you have four bridesmaids and two mothers getting both hair and makeup done, and you have a team of two hairstylists and two makeup artists, you should allow at least two hours for all services. It's a good idea to build some cushion into your timeline, as hair and makeup may take longer than you think.

Order of Services

The bride should go first for makeup and last for hair. This allows the photographer and videographer to capture the last-minute steps of the hair styling when they arrive. If more than three people are having hair and makeup done, consider asking the stylists to bring an assistant to help with brush cleaning.

Trials

It's a good idea to have a trial before your wedding day, so you can get a better idea of how long these services will take. This will also give you a chance to provide feedback to ensure you're happy with the final look on your big day.

Getting an Early Start

Photos

If you want photos of the hair and makeup process, make sure to coordinate timing with your photographer and videographer. They will need to arrive in time to capture these moments, as well as the final steps of the bride getting ready.

Other Tips

• If possible, have hair and makeup artists come to your venue or getting-ready location. This will save time on travel and reduce the risk of delays.
• Send a copy of the hair and makeup schedule to those having these services done to ensure everyone is on the same page and on time.
• If you're having a first look or taking couple's portraits before the ceremony, the bride should get into her dress after hair and makeup are finished.
• Allow time for touch-ups after hair and makeup are complete, especially if you're taking photos.
• If you're providing lunch for your bridal party, plan to have it delivered after hair and makeup are done so everyone can enjoy it while getting ready.
• If possible, have your hairstylists and makeup artists bring a kit of essential products and tools for any last-minute touch-ups throughout the day.

Remember to communicate your timeline and expectations clearly with your hair and makeup team, and be flexible in case of any delays or unexpected issues.

Photography

Getting Ready

• At least 30-45 minutes with the bride and her bridesmaids, and the same for the groom and his groomsmen. It is recommended to have these photos taken before the ceremony.
• 30 minutes for the bride and bridesmaids
• 30 minutes for the groom and groomsmen
• 45 minutes for the wedding couple together. If you do a "first look," that usually takes about 10 minutes, and it is recommended to schedule about 15 minutes before sunset for the best light.

Wedding Party and Family Photos

• 20-30 minutes for the whole wedding party
• 1.5 minutes per small group (2-8 people) for immediate family photos
• 5 minutes per large group (8+ people) for immediate family photos. If you would like to include extended family in the formals, you can use the same timing calculations.

Ceremony Prep Time

15-30 minutes for ceremony prep. Don't schedule any other photo sessions for the 15-30 minutes right before your ceremony so photographers can get set up and communicate with videographers.

During the Ceremony

Photographers can capture the important moments during the ceremony, such as the couple's first kiss, exchanging of rings, and signing of the marriage certificate.

After the Ceremony

• 30 minutes for family portraits with the couple after the ceremony, either at the altar or somewhere close by.
• 15 minutes for bridal party portraits altogether with the couple.
• 15 minutes for bride and groom portraits
• If there is a reception at a different location, allow for travel time between the ceremony and reception venues.

During the Reception

• Detail photos of the reception setup, including table settings, decorations, and the cake.
• Photos of the wedding party's grand entrance and first dance.
• Candid photos of guests enjoying cocktails, appetizers, and dinner.
• Photos of special moments such as toasts, parent dances, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and garter toss.
• Open dance floor and party!

Tips for Wedding Day Photography Timeline:

• It is important to have a specific timeline for photography, as it helps the couple, bridal party, and family members know where to be and when.
• The timeline also helps the photographer to be ready for the next big event and not miss any important shots.
• Discuss with the couple whether they will be doing a "first look" before the ceremony, as this will impact the timeline.
• Consider the lighting conditions throughout the day and plan photo times accordingly. For example, sunset photos usually take 10-15 minutes and should be scheduled during the 15 minutes before sunset for the best light.
• Build some cushion into your timeline to account for potential delays, such as hair and makeup taking longer than expected or transportation delays.
• Confirm the wedding timeline with the couple and other vendors at least a week before the wedding to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Getting dressed

The "getting dressed" portion of your wedding day is a special moment, and there's a lot to consider when planning the timeline for this part of the day. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you plan:

Timing:

The timing of the "getting dressed" portion of the day will depend on several factors, including the size of your wedding party, the complexity of your hair and makeup, and whether you plan to do a "first look" with your partner. It's essential to build in some buffer time to your schedule, as things may take longer than expected. Here is a suggested timeline for the "getting dressed" portion of the day:

Bride's Preparation:

• About 10-15 minutes before stepping into your wedding gown, take a quick snack break and use the restroom. It's also a good idea to put on your undergarments at this time.
• If you plan to exchange gifts with your parents, attendants, or other loved ones, factor this into your timeline. You can do this after lunch or while getting your hair and makeup done.
• When it's time to get dressed, have your mother, a close family member, maid/matron of honour, sisters, or a close friend help you. They should be fully ready, with their hair, makeup, and wedding attire completed, 10-20 minutes before you step into your gown.
• If you have a large wedding party and are getting ready in the same room, everyone should be dressed and ready 5-10 minutes before you step into your dress.
• If you're doing a "first look" with your father or another family member, have them dressed and ready 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time.

Groom's Preparation:

• About 10-15 minutes before the photographer arrives, the groom should be dressed in his shirt, pants, and any other necessary undergarments. Have all other details, such as boutonniere, tie, cologne, socks, shoes, cufflinks, and watch, laid out and easily accessible.
• The groom's side of the wedding party should be completely ready, including shirts, shoes, jackets, and ties, about 10-15 minutes before the photographer's arrival.
• If the groom's parents will be helping with any final preparations, such as pinning on the boutonniere or tying the tie, they should be dressed and ready 10-15 minutes before the photographer's arrival.

Final Touches:

• After everyone is dressed, there should be time for final hair and makeup touch-ups and any last-minute preparations, such as using the restroom or practising personal vows.
• The wedding party should be at the venue, dressed and ready, about an hour before the ceremony begins.

Additional Considerations:

• If you're doing a "first look" with your partner, plan for 30 minutes to an hour for this event, including group photos with the wedding party and portraits of just the two of you.
• If you're exchanging gifts with your wedding party or family members, factor this into your timeline.
• If you're including any special jewellery or accessories, such as a family heirloom, ensure you allow enough time to put them on and have them photographed.
• If you're travelling to a separate ceremony venue, leave plenty of time for transportation and adjust your timeline accordingly.

Remember, this is your special day, and it's important to enjoy the moments and not stress too much about the timeline. Build in some flexibility, and don't be afraid to adjust as needed. Happy wedding day!

Ceremony

The ceremony is the most important part of your wedding day, as it's what makes your union official. Here's a detailed plan for the ceremony to ensure your big day goes smoothly.

Processional

The ceremony begins with the processional, which usually takes 3-6 minutes. The typical order starts with the officiant, followed by the groom (with or without their parents), the best man with the maid of honor, the rest of the bridesmaids and groomsmen, the ring bearer, and the flower girl. Finally, the bride is escorted by her father or a family member to begin the ceremony.

Opening Remarks

Once everyone is in place, the officiant welcomes the guests and talks about the significance of the day, sharing a few personal words about the couple and their love story. The officiant then says a few words about marriage and love, setting the stage for the vows. This part of the ceremony should last 2-3 minutes.

Readings and Special Performances

This is where you can include readings, poems, or musical performances. Invite friends and family to share their stories and wisdom as you start your married life together. The officiant will announce each person who comes up to speak so that everyone can see and hear them. This part of the ceremony usually lasts 5-10 minutes.

Exchange of Vows

Now for the best part—the vows! You can write your own or stick to traditional phrasing. Don't forget to speak loudly and clearly so that all your guests can hear your promises to your partner. This part of the ceremony should last around 5 minutes.

Exchange of Rings

The exchange of rings is a symbol of your commitment to each other. You and your partner can exchange rings after the vows, accompanied by words like "With this ring, I thee wed." This part of the ceremony should last around 3 minutes.

Unity Ceremony

If you're including a unity candle, sand ceremony, or any other symbolic ritual, this is the time to do it. This part of the ceremony should last around 5 minutes.

Pronouncement

The officiant now declares you married, and you can share your first kiss as a married couple! This part of the ceremony should last 2-3 minutes.

Recessional

The recessional is the reverse of the processional. The newlyweds lead the way, followed by the wedding party, and finally, the guests. This part of the ceremony usually takes 5-10 minutes.

Music

Don't forget to choose meaningful music for your ceremony. If you have a song that's special to you as a couple, consider including it.

Photography

Hire a professional photographer and/or videographer to capture all the special moments throughout your ceremony.

Timing

The ceremony typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, but it's important to build some cushion into your timeline in case of delays.

Rehearsal

Rehearse your ceremony at least once to ensure smooth transitions, but don't stress over perfection. Authenticity is key!

Communication

Communicate with your officiant about your expectations and any specific elements you want to include in the ceremony.

Rings

Assign someone you trust to be responsible for the wedding rings to ensure you don't forget them in the rush of the day.

Reception

The reception is the perfect time to let loose and celebrate with your loved ones. Here is a detailed timeline to help you plan the reception festivities.

Guests Enter Reception

As the cocktail hour comes to a close, guests will be asked to file into the reception space and find their seats. This marks the beginning of the reception, which typically lasts around 4-5 hours.

Wedding Party and Couple's Grand Entrance

You have a few options for the grand entrance. You can introduce your wedding party first, with each member announced by name and entering individually or in pairs to an upbeat song. Then, you and your spouse can make a grand debut as newlyweds. Alternatively, you can skip the wedding party entrance and go straight to the traditional newlywed entrance.

First Dance

Your first dance as a married couple is a special moment. It usually begins as you step onto the dance floor after your grand entrance. You can dance for a full song or fade out after a couple of minutes.

Welcome Speech and Toasts

A welcome speech is a great opportunity to thank your guests for their attendance. This is often done by the couple, the parents, or a family member. It is followed by toasts, typically given by the best man and maid of honor. These toasts are usually kept short and lighthearted, lasting about 2-5 minutes each.

Dinner

Dinner is served, and guests can enjoy a delicious meal. This can be a seated dinner or a buffet, depending on your preference and the number of guests.

Parent Dances

After dinner, it's time for the parent dances, including the father-daughter and mother-son dances. These dances are a chance for the couple to share a special moment with their parents and are usually followed by the bouquet and garter toss (if you choose to include them).

Open Dance Floor

Now it's time to get the party started! The dance floor is open for all guests to join in the fun. This is typically the most anticipated part of the reception, lasting around 2-3 hours.

Cake Cutting

About an hour before the reception ends, the cake-cutting ceremony takes place. This signals to guests that the festivities are coming to a close, so timing is crucial. You can make it a grand event or keep it low-key, ensuring the dancing isn't interrupted.

Last Dance

The last dance is a chance to end the night on a high note. Choose an upbeat song to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Grand Exit and Send-off

Finally, it's time to say goodbye. Your guests will cheer and wish you a happy future as you make your grand exit. They might blow bubbles, light sparklers, or toss confetti to add to the festive atmosphere.

Remember, this is just a sample timeline, and you can customize it to fit your preferences and the flow of your wedding day. Enjoy your special day and celebrate with your loved ones!

Frequently asked questions