Tips for a smooth wedding day timeline
Planning a wedding is a huge and time consuming job. One thing I consistently get asked about is tips for a smooth wedding day timeline. You might think it will just all flow naturally and having too much structure could make it stressful. In my experience it’s quite the opposite. Obviously everything doesn’t have to run to the minute. However, by allowing enough time for each part of the day and being realistic about what can take longer, will have a massive impact on how much you and your partner can relax knowing everything is in hand. Below is a rough example of a typical timeline for a day.
summer wedding example timeline
11.30am – photographer arrives for prep
1.30pm – photographer goes to the venue as guests arrive
2pm – ceremony begins
2.30pm – confetti / exit venue to guests
2.30-4.15 – reception drinks and mingling
3.15 – group photos
3.45 – portrait couple shots
4.15 – food
6pm – speeches
7pm – downtime / evening guests arrive
8pm – first dance
8.45 – IF LUCKY – golden hour!
A winter wedding would follow similar time frames as above except you would swap out golden hour for nighttime portraits. So with an idea of roughly how long everything can take, let’s go through each section of the day.
getting ready
People are often surprised how much time is put aside for getting ready. And that’s hours before the photographer even arrives. However, if you time it right, it will set the tone for your day. Being stressed and trying to fix hair/make up last minute is really a no-no. It’s ideal to have half an hour before having to leave to enjoy a drink with your nearest and dearest around you.
ceremony
Non-religious ceremonies tend to last around 20-30 minutes. Church ceremonies can last anything up to an hour. Be sure speak to your celebrant/vicar/priest to know exactly how long it will last. Humanist ceremonies are very much self-directed so you can have total control on how much you want to include. For example, readings, music hand fasting etc.
confetti and hello!
I’ve included this even though it’s not on the timeline officially. People are often surprised at how they can accidentally get caught in a line-up (unless it’s planned) but beware this can eat into a lot of your reception drinks time.
drinks reception
I tend to recommend 90-mins to 2 hours for the drinks reception. The time will fly for you both. And in that time you will want to fit in a drink, eat a canopy or two, chat and say hi to people while also having your group and couple photos. Having this amount of time will also give your photographer time to capture some candid shots of your guests.
group photos
I recommend around 6-8 group shots. You’ll be amazed how long it can take to round people up. Always delegate someone to help so you and I aren’t running around calling out names.
couple portraits
This doesn’t have to be an awkward and uncomfortable part of your day. In fact it can often be a highlight for people who love to have a few minutes on their own while I snap away. I usually spend about 10-20 minutes doing this depending on how far we have to walk to get the best spots for pics. And of course if we’re lucky to have golden hour I will be grabbing you for another 10 minutes after your dinner.
speeches
Speeches can go on longer than you think. An hour is a safe bet unless of course you know there will only be one or two and then you can half that. Either way, you’re into the cruisey part of your day and now there is only partying to be had!
evening party
It’s good to allow a bit of time to freshen up before your evening dance, if you’re having one, and to meet any evening guests and chat to those you haven’t managed to yet. And if you’re having a live band or evening DJ then once the first dance is done it’s time to party!
I hope you’ve found this blog useful, for more inspiration visit my blog here. And to see more of my work check out my portfolio.
Are you looking for a relaxed, friendly and easy-going Sussex wedding photographer? Head over to my contact form and I look forward to chatting! x
