Your wedding day flies by. If your timeline is off, things feel rushed, and you miss out on those golden-hour photos. Here’s how to plan a timeline that works.
1. Start with Ceremony Time
Your ceremony time determines everything else. From there, work backward and forward to fit in getting ready, portraits, and reception.
2. Getting Ready
Bridesmaids and groomsmen always take longer than you think. Add buffer time so you’re not rushing through hair and makeup.
3. First Look or Not?
If you’re doing a first look, you’ll need time before the ceremony for portraits. If not, most photos will happen after.
4. Golden Hour Magic
The best light for photos is during golden hour (about an hour before sunset). Schedule couple portraits then for those dreamy, glowing shots.
5. Add Buffer Time
Things will run late, it’s almost guaranteed. Add at least 15 minutes between events.
Example Timeline:
- 11:00 AM – Hair and makeup start
- 2:00 PM – First look
- 3:30 PM – Ceremony
- 4:00 PM – Family photos
- 5:30 PM – Golden hour couple photos
- 6:30 PM – Reception begins
Bottom Line: A well-planned timeline = a stress-free wedding day and better photos.
