Ahhhh, does planning your wedding timeline stress you out as an engaged couple?! Well, I’m here to reassure you that wedding timelines aren’t so bad after all… Especially when you have a trusted team of wedding vendors that have your back!
When it comes to planning your wedding timeline, I believe one thing is most important – planning ahead! Here is my best advice when it comes to planning your wedding timeline…
The Big Three
As a wedding photographer, I check-in with couples all throughout the process of working together… One of those times I check-in is around the 6-month mark before the wedding to start talking timeline! I love checking in around six months before the wedding to get a feel for the big three. But what are the big three you might ask? Ceremony time, dinner time, and sunset time.
The big three (as I like to call them!) are the main timeline points that frame the rest of the wedding day. Now, that’s not to say that you need to dive headfirst into planning the timeline six months before the wedding day, but I love getting a feel for these times once they are solidified by this point in the game. Because, after all, ceremony and reception timing often change from when the couple books to when the couple starts solidifying details with their venue(s).
Then, once we’re 3-4 months out from the wedding, I love to reach out and start framing the timeline with our couples based on the big three and any other details that are in place by that point. By the 3-4 month mark, we usually have a better idea of hair and makeup timing, venue timing, transportation timing, and more.
It’s always better to touch base about all things timeline sooner rather than later!
Common Timeline Points to Consider
Here are some of the most common timeline points to think about when planning your day-of wedding timeline…
- Getting ready timing (when does hair/makeup begin and wrap up, getting dressed, etc.)
- First look timing
- Ceremony start time and approximate length
- Cocktail hour timing
- Dinner timing
- Reception event approximate times
- Sunset photo timing
What do other couples do?
I can’t tell you how often couples ask – what do other couples do? – when it comes to planning wedding timelines! I promise that I’m ALL for using resources and learning from other couples and weddings… But can I let you in on a little secret? It’s your wedding day and should be a reflection of you as a couple! There are no rules…
Do you want to read letters to one another on your wedding day? Do you want to sneak away for 15 minutes of photos with your dogs? Do you want to have a private cocktail hour with your new spouse? Do you want to experience a reveal of your reception space?
You can do any and all of these things and more on your wedding day – just communicate these desires to your wedding coordinator or planner and photo/video team. They will help make your dreams come to life!
My favorite thing about weddings these days? There really are no rules, so go with your gut about what you envision for your big day! And always trust your vendors (just like me, your photographer!) to help guide you during the timeline planning process.
P.S. – Want more wedding planning advice + encouragement? Read more 
