On your wedding day, nothing is more important than timing! If there's one thing I've learned from working as a wedding photographer in Philadelphia, it’s that a solid wedding timeline makes for a stress-free wedding day. Every wedding day is unique, so when creating your wedding timeline, it's important that you take into consideration all the details of your wedding. Take time to consider how much time you should a lot for each part of the day. Having a wedding day timeline will help you stay on track and organized on your big day. While each wedding is different, here are some tips that can ensure a wedding that runs smoothly and keeps you happy.
Wedding Timeline Guidelines for a Perfect Day
1. What decisions have you already made?
Chances are, each and every decision you have made about your wedding will impact your timeline. Here are some questions to consider:
● Where is everyone getting ready? (e.x. are the bride and groom getting ready at the same hotel? Will they be getting ready at the ceremony location? Will all the bridesmaids and groomsmen getting ready in the same area?)
● Will the ceremony and the reception in the same area or close to each other? (You may need to account for adequate travel time in the timeline.)
● When will pictures be done? Are you planning on having a first look or taking all photos after the ceremony? ● What is the length of your ceremony?
● Will there be speeches or toasts at the reception?
● Do you need to vacate the reception hall at a certain time?
2. Ensure Enough Time For Travel
I can’t stress this enough. So many things can cause people to run behind when it comes to travel time. Traffic, unexpected accidents, or needing to stop for any reason at all can cause delays. You should also account for loading and unloading people between locations. You won’t regret having time buffers!
3. Speak to People with Experience
If you have decided to use a wedding planner, he or she will be an amazing asset when planning your timeline. They’ll have a general idea of how to plan out the day based on past weddings, and can cater the timeline to yours. Don’t hesitate to speak to managers of the venue or your other vendors like your wedding photographer for their tips and tricks on how to keep the wedding running smoothly. It’s also important to check with your vendors, as they’ll most likely need time for set up and breaking down, especially your wedding photographer.
4. Give the Bride plenty of time, and then some!
Depending on the time of your ceremony, we recommend you start getting ready as early as possible. For example, if your ceremony is at 9 AM, it would be beneficial to begin the getting ready process around 8:30/9. It may seem like a lot, but it often takes most brides well over an hour for hair and makeup, and then the bride must get into her dress. If you have bridesmaids, they may need to have their hair and makeup done as well. Getting an early start to your day and allowing yourself plenty of time will contribute towards a stress free day. Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life. Why not make it as easy as it will be beautiful? These tips will make sure that you enjoy every second of your day with no regrets.