That is enjoyable and efficient!
If you’re reading this it is safe to say you are planning your wedding and seeking a little guidance around the timeline. You want the day to feel easy, enjoyable, and intentional.. But with so many moving parts – making that a reality can be overwhelming to say the least. Fear not, this post will share everything you need to go from overwhelmed to building the timeline of your dreams with ease.
I am going to share a timeline sample with you but first here are 5 universal tips that you NEED to know when planning your ideal day.
- Allow extra time for every event
If you follow any tips, let it be this one. Adding buffer time will set the tone of your entire day and can transform a stressed and anxious timeline into a chill and *right on time* experience. You don’t need a ton of time, just 5-10 minutes more than you think you need. If there is only one area you can add more time into your day, it is during the bride getting ready. You want to have time to share moments with your loved ones, finalize all of the details, and take timeless photographs that will last a lifetime.
- Don’t make the day too long
The goal of good hospitality is always to have the comfort of your guests in mind. Wedding days that are unnecessarily drawn out (I am not referring to weddings that are traditionally long culturally), can leave guests feeling drained when it comes time for everyone to hit the dance floor. Be mindful of each segment of the day and keep these general rules of thumb in mind. (Ceremony: 15 – 30 minutes, Reception 4-5 hours).
- Keep transportation in mind
If you are getting married in a city or a destination with lots of activity, keeping transportation in mind when creating your timeline can save you a lot of grief. I have personally seen groomsmen, couples parents, and loved ones miss key portions of wedding days due to traffic. Traffic that affects transportation from the ceremony site to the reception site is especially important to factor.
- Dedicate time for one another
I hear so many couples say that the day went by so fast that they really didn’t have an opportunity to really be with one another. This can leave you feeling a small sense of regret which is why I believe it is important to plan intentional time together. This can look like a number of things depending on what is ideal for your unique wedding day. Here are some ideas: A private first look, private vow ceremony, private “last dance”, get ready together, have a “first touch”, read letters to one another back to back.
- Speak with your vendors before finalizing your timeline
As a photographer, part of my client experience is where we coordinate to plan out the timeline. During these conversations, I offer my clients feedback through the lens of my knowledge of lighting, timeframes it takes for certain images, and general suggestions. Catering will need to give you a timeframe of how long it will take to serve everyone, your DJ can help give you an idea for the length of your first dances, etc. Your vendors are on your team, and are here to give you the best of the best experience so please lean in and utilize their expertise!
Okay – now that you have all of that wisdom in mind – here is the full timeline sample. Remember that every day is different and that this should just serve as a sample of one way it can look.
Getting married? I offer timeline planning support for each of the couples that I work with. View my portfolio and see if I am the right photographer for you.
