A Sample Wedding Day Timeline
I realized that having an example of a timeline to work from is so helpful when putting together your own. You can copy it exactly, use it as a starting point to build on or even get some inspiration and create your own from scratch. Weddings that have a solid and practical timeline go super smooth! And weddings which don’t most often have bumps in the road.
This timeline is based off a wedding that has a 6pm ceremony and which also includes a first look!
Bridal Details 2:00 - 2:30
Every Bride loves photos of her details. Your wedding prep involves so much work and is an important part of the story. I love to get shots of rings, invitations, flowers, jewelry, shoes, dresses etc. as they all tell the story of your magical day.
Bride and Groom Getting Ready 2:30 - 3:15
Once I capture all the details I will pop over to the groom’s getting ready suit followed by the heading over to the Bride’s getting ready suite. This is a perfect time of the day to have a second photographer so that a photographer can be in both places ensuring all moments are captured!
First Look 4:00
This is one of the most amazing moments of the wedding day! I will find a spot which is private and out of the way! Plus I will pick it out before the getting ready photos so there is no stress of where to do it.
Bridal Portraits 4:15 - 4:45
Once the Bride and Groom have had the chance to enjoy each others company for the first time on their wedding day it is the perfect time to move right into portraits! Doing them right after the first look is best because the sparks are flying and there is so much real emotion which is expressed and captured in every photo.
Bridal Party Portraits 4:50 - 5:20
Now it is time for Bridal Party shots! Having someone in charge of rounding up your crew to be at the right location at the right time will help this go smoothly and also making sure the boutonnieres are on BEFORE portraits will save you lots of time!
Hide the Bride 5:30 - 6:00
Part of the wedding day is surprising your guests when you come down the aisle! Make sure you add some time to get tucked away and, just so you know, guests tend to come a little early so plan for that too!
Reception and Ceremony Details 5:30 - 5:50
I love to get into the ceremony and reception spaces before all the guests do so that I can get some shots when it is all set up exactly as the Bride wants it to be!
Ceremony 6:00 - 6:30
It is time to get married! The lighting at this time will be very romantic. Most ceremonies are 30 minutes or less but if yours is longer then make adjustments for that!
Family Portraits 6:40 - 7:10
These portraits usually happen right after the ceremony because it is the time when all your family are in the same place! I definitely recommend doing them outside if you can to give them a more natural feel and because some reception spaces can be little dark.
Some “Just Married” Portraits 7:15 - 7:30
Right after the family portraits at around 7pm is the best time of day in the late spring, summer and early fall time of year! The sun is gorgeous, glowy and golden!
The Reception 7:30
This usually starts with your Grand Entrance and then the party begins! Get ready for some fun because they are always a blast!
The Exit 10:00
In this timeline, I’ve included 8 hours of coverage so that I can be present for the main events of the reception and about an hour of dancing! If you’re interested in having your exit photographed, there are several options for this! You can either add additional coverage or plan a faux exit with just your bridal party! We have had GREAT success with this and the party never stops! Email me about this if you’re interested in learning more!
I hope this example wedding timeline helps you while planning your big day! If you have specific questions as to how to adjust this timeline to fit your day perfectly, drop me a note! I love helping couples plan a perfect timeline!
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