When it comes to weddings, much like life, everyone is different. Some people have been meticulously planning their weddings since they were eight-years-old, some are flying by the seat of their pants, and some just need a little nudge in the right direction. Having a carefully crafted wedding timeline can bring everything into focus.
So, what is a wedding timeline? A wedding timeline is a detailed schedule of events that are to take place on the day of your wedding. This is where you lay out the time blocks from hair/makeup to your grand exit. Having a wedding timeline is very important, not only for you, but for your vendors as well. Designating your wedding planner or a family member to follow your timeline will keep everything running smoothly and punctually so you can be fully present, without sweating the small stuff.
As a wedding photographer, and having been a bride myself, I know the major importance of being organized and having a wedding timeline. That’s why I include complimentary timeline planning when you book any of my wedding day packages. Having a wedding photographer who is involved in the creation and knows the ins and outs of your timeline is especially important. Since I’m with you for basically the entire wedding day, I can keep track of what comes next on your schedule. I make sure we have all the time we need for every photo on your wishlist, without throwing off the flow of the day. Below I have included a sample timeline based on an 8-hour photography coverage wedding.
Timeline Example – 8 Hour Coverage
- 12:00 p.m. Start hair & makeup
- 1:30 p.m. Photographer arrives // details shots
- 2:00 p.m. Hair & makeup is complete
- 2:30 p.m. Put on dress // reveal to bridesmaids
- 3:00 p.m. First look
- 3:15 p.m. Couple’s portraits
- 4:00 p.m. Bridal party photos
- 4:30 p.m. Back to bridal suites
- 5:00 p.m. Ceremony
- 5:30 p.m. Ceremony ends // cocktail hour starts
- 5:35 p.m. Formal family photos
- 6:30 p.m. Guests are seated
- 6:40 p.m. Entrances into reception
- 6:45 p.m. Speeches & dinner
- 7:30 p.m. Sunset portraits
- 7:45 p.m. First dance // parent dances
- 8:00 p.m. Dance floor open to guests
- 9:30 p.m. Photographer leaves + party keeps going!!
Of course, this is just an example. Many of these events will be moved or cut, or events could be added as well, it all depends on your personal preference. While we will surely tweak this timeline to fit your own wedding, it is a great place to start, especially if you have nothing.
Having a wedding timeline is a must-have, no matter what kind of wedding you are planning. Now that you have an idea of what is needed for your timeline, you can get to planning! If you’re still needing some direction, don’t worry! When you book with me, I will make sure you are confident and organized in your wedding timeline!
Looking for an organized wedding photographer to keep you on schedule?
