Welcome to the road map of your dream wedding day! As your friendly wedding photography company, We are here to help you understand the key moments and times that will make your day unforgettable. Let's break down the schedule, keeping it simple and easy to follow.
Why Your Timeline Matters: A Quick Insight
When you plan your wedding day, creating a timeline isn't just a checklist—it helps your photographer know how much time they need to capture your special moments. They're like photography ninjas, knowing when and where to take the best shots. Some venues set the ceremony or reception times, and your photographer can help you plan around them.
A general rule is that 8 hours of photography usually covers everything from getting ready to the first dance. But, of course, every wedding is unique!
Remember, don't send out invitations until your ceremony time is confirmed—once those invites are out,
it's set in stone!
Your Wedding Day Timeline: The Basics
Bride Preparation - 1 to 1.5 Hours
Groom Preparation - 1 Hour
First Look (Optional) - 15 to 30 Minutes
Wedding Traditions Ritual (Optional) - Varies
Travel Time - Varies
Wedding Ceremony - 0.5 to 1.5 Hours
Congratulations and Family Photos - 0.5 to 1 Hr
Location Shoot/Bridal Photos - 30-45 Minutes/Location
Short Break - Varies
Reception - 2 to 6 Hours
Breaking Down the Key Moments
Bride Preparations:
Start your day with ample time for the bridal preparations. Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours, ensuring your photographer arrives when your hair and makeup are nearly complete. Capture the fun of getting into your dress, shoes, and veil, leaving enough time for beautiful portraits in various locations.
Groom Preparations:
While not as lengthy as the bride's preparations, allocate about 1 hour for the groom. Suit up 45 minutes before leaving for the ceremony venue, and capture all portraits and family pictures. Traditionally, the groom arrives at the venue 30 minutes before the ceremony.
First Look (Optional):
A modern trend, the first look adds a touch of magic. Allocate 15 to 30 minutes at a quiet location, factoring in travel time if the site is separate from your ceremony venue.
Travel Time:
Be mindful of road conditions, detours, and potential traffic surprises. Add extra time as a buffer for unexpected delays, and consider weekday challenges like school pick-up/drop-off and work traffic.
Rituals, Customs, and Traditions:
For weddings with cultural rituals or traditions, discuss the time required with family members involved.
Wedding Ceremony:
Ceremony times vary, from 15 minutes at a registry office to 90 minutes in a church. Discuss with your photographer to ensure adequate coverage without rushing.
Congratulations and Family Photos:
Allow up to 30 minutes for congratulatory wishes from guests. Adjust the time based on the number of attendees.
Formal Family Photos:
Keep the list concise, and designate a helper for gathering family members. Allocate no more than 30 minutes for formal family photos.
Bridal Party Location Shoot:
Discuss location ideas with your photographer beforehand. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for each separate location, considering travel time.
Short Break:
Consider a short break before the reception. Use this time to refresh, change outfits, and grab a snack.
Reception:
Liaise with your venue coordinator or MC/DJ for the reception procession. Typical events include the bridal entrance, speeches, main entrees, cake cutting, first dance, and open dance floor. Depending on your photography package, your reception is generally covered.
Conclusion: Your Dream Day Unveiled
As your wedding photographer/company, We are here to help you craft the perfect day. While the guidelines provided offer a roadmap, your preferences are the compass directing the journey. Feel free to leverage our expertise for venue suggestions, time blocks, and order of events. Your wedding day is a reflection of your unique love story, and we are honored to be part of the team that brings it to life.
Let's create something beautiful together!
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your vision further, We are more than happy to share more examples of our work.
Happy planning!
