One of the most important steps in wedding planning is crafting a clear and detailed wedding day timeline. A well-organized timeline helps ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day without feeling overwhelmed! Here is our step-by-step guide to creating a wedding day timeline for a stress-free celebration!
1. Start with the Ceremony Time
The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, so begin by deciding on the start time. Once you know this, you can work backward to schedule other events. Remember to leave enough time for guests to arrive and settle in before the ceremony begins, and allow buffer time between each of the events of the day!
2. Include Pre-Ceremony Events
Whether it’s hair and makeup, a pre-wedding breakfast, or a quiet moment with family, allow ample time for these moments. Brides and their bridesmaids typically start getting ready around 4–6 hours before the ceremony, depending on their preferred routine (and depending on your choosing of a hair/makeup artists). For the groom and groomsmen, getting ready may take less time. Make sure to plan accordingly—the day can’t start without you two & your bridal party!
3. Account for the Reception & Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, it’s time for the reception…but first, (if you choose), cocktail hour! This is where you’ll need to schedule your grand entrance, first dance, toasts, dinner, and other important moments like cake cutting or bouquet tossing. Consider the flow of the event and how much time each part will take. There isn’t a formal/exact flow you need to follow, so make sure to plan to your liking!
4. Build in Buffer Time
It’s always a good idea to include some buffer time between events. This helps account for any delays or unexpected moments. A little extra time will keep the day on track and reduce stress. It also allows for transitions and flips to the reception/ceremony areas if needed! Your vendors will also appreciate this!
5. Delegate and Share the Timeline
Once your timeline is ready, share it with your wedding planner (they are usually the ones’ who help cultivate your timeline), bridal party, family members, and vendors so everyone is on the same page. This ensures smooth coordination throughout the day! It’s your day, so make sure to share it with the individuals who will be most involved.
6. Don’t forget the little moments!
Throughout the entire wedding planning process, you will find that time slips away! A good way to focus on the little moments, is to make time for them in your timeline. We always encourage couples to take a step back throughout the day and make sure to enjoy every part of the day that you have planned out to a T. For example, make time after your ceremony for a few minutes to yourselves—sneak over to your reception area to see it all set up before your guests enter! This is a perfect opportunity to “soak in the moment” and appreciate all of your hard work leading up to the day.
By carefully planning your wedding day timeline, you’ll have more time to enjoy your celebration and create lasting memories. Having this completed 30-60 days out is IDEAL! Keep it organized, stay flexible, and let your wedding day unfold beautifully!