Before you can walk down the isle, you’ve got to plan the day! That is why today on the blog we are sharing a sample timeline that goes through the events of the day itself. As seasoned planners, we know this like the back of our hand (probably better!). So trust us as we give the flow for the day but don’t be afraid to personalize it for your wedding party.
Shea Brie Photography
9:00am Hair & makeup begins at hotel; mimosas please
10:30am Groomsmen arrive at barber shop for hot shaves
12:00pm Lunch delivered to wedding parties while last details are finished
1:30pm Travel to venue - (not in wedding clothes)
2:00pm Arrive to venue and get wedding dress on
Shea Brie Photography
2:00pm Vendor arrivals begin at venue
2:15pm photographer begins with detail shots of ring, clothing and venue
2:30pm Bridal and bridesmaid portraits begin
Shea Brie Photography
3:30pm Groom and groomsmen arrive at venue, dressed and ready for photos
4:00pm Wedding couple has First Look at special location
4:10pm Photography of full wedding party continues
Shea Brie Photography
Shea Brie Photography
4:45pm Wedding party retreats out of sight
4:45pm Guest arrive and sign guest book
5:00pm Guests seated for ceremony; Wedding party staged for processional
5:10pm Ceremony begins
Shea Brie Photography
5:30pm Ceremony concludes, newlyweds + witnesses sign marriage license; Family portraits follow and cocktail hour begins
6:15pm Guests move to reception space; Wedding party staged for Grand Entrance
6:30pm Grand Entrance begins
6:35pm Blessing by the Father of the Groom
6:40pm Dinner service begins
Shea Brie Photography
Shea Brie Photography
7:40pm Champagne is passed and toasts begin
8:00pm Thank you speech by the bride and groom
8:05pm Followed by First Dance
8:10pm Father-Daughter dance; Mother-Son dance
8:15pm Dance floor is open!
9:00pm Bouquet toss & garter toss; Cake cut and served
9:55pm Last Dance
10:00pm Grand Exit sparkler tunnel
Shea Brie Photography
Shea Brie Photography
Shea Brie Photography
Tips:
Plan on a 30 minute ceremony
Plan at least 45-60 minutes for dinner service, which gives you time to mingle with each table
It’s okay to move the cake up and right after dinner
And if you want to go home earlier (we know it’s been a long day) remember, it’s better to end the night with guest than you being the last one to shut it down
Happy planning
XOXO