While it’s important to have a well planned wedding schedule, it’s even more important to keep in mind that nothing is written in stone, and you should give yourself some flexibility. Try to plan for more time than you think you need.
Relax and have fun you are marrying the love of your life and your supposed to enjoy your big day.
As you start organizing your thoughts and start outlining your perfect wedding timeline, focus on the times you already know. Ceremony start time, reception and end time, then you can start building your timeline around these times.
Hair and Makeup - usually takes longer than you think. Most brides block about three hours to get ready. The more bridesmaids you have the longer it will take. Decide if you will get ready at the venue or if you have to drive from the place where you are getting ready to the venue calculate distance and traffic, (as it equates to time). You might want robe shots with bridesmaids, getting dressed, putting on shoes, If you are doing a first look you will need to start the hair and make up process at least three hours before that.
Wedding Photos - You’ll probably want lots of pics with your significant other/wedding party and family, so make sure you set aside enough time for these. You’ll need at least an hour before the wedding if you are doing a first look, or reading vows in private, just the two of you. (most photos sessions will take approximately two hours). Also keep in mind if you want to do portraits during sunset, the best way to find the sunset time is to search it online for the location of your venue and date, this will give you an exact time the sun will set.
Wedding Ceremony - the time you set aside for this will depend on the type of ceremony you want to have. Though these days couples are opting for a much shorter ceremony that usually lasts 30 minutes or less.
Cocktail Hour - should be a full 60 minutes (lets’ be real people get hungry during ceremonies). This will be a perfect time to get started on those family and group photos, while your guests are enjoying the cocktail hour.
Wedding Reception - It’s Party Time! Most receptions last a minimum of four hours. Is the reception at the same location as the ceremony, or do you have to travel? Plan for travel, Plan for more time!
Count on your photographer’s opinion, most have their own timeline, which can help you with yours. Once you are finished with the timeline then next, share it with all your vendors. This will help get everyone on the same page.
(disclaimer: Not written with any particular faith or tradition in mind)