Building the Perfect Wedding Timeline
Written by: Destinee Coenen, Owner of Skies the Limit Events
A stress-free wedding comes down to one main element– a perfect wedding timeline. As a seasoned wedding pro, I have seen it all when it comes to timelines, and I can honestly say that there isn’t one timeline that will work for all couples. When I work with my clients to build their wedding day timeline, I simplify the task by determining the following key events for the day:
1. Start time for ceremony, cocktail hour & dinner.
It might seem like working backwards but, I like to start by setting the time for the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner. Once the major events are set for the day I find it easier to plan the remainder of the day.
2. Decide if you will do a first look.
I am not partial to a first look or waiting to see each other at the start of the aisle, but determining if you and your fiancé will do a first look will change the way your timeline is laid out. If you don’t do a first look, consider an earlier start to your ceremony, as you will need time for photos before your reception.
3. Number of individuals getting hair and makeup.
If you have chosen to procure professional hair and makeup services, you will need to ask how long they need to complete your wedding party. The goal is not to be rushed and not to start at 6:00am. PRO TIP: Consider hiring multiple stylists.
4. Plan out your reception.
Making a plan for your reception events assures that you don’t miss anything important but also keeps things moving along so that you and your fiancé can enjoy the party! Add in time for your grand march, welcome toasts, speeches, and first dance around your dinner service time.
5. Coordinate with vendors.
It is important to make sure that your wedding timeline you have mapped out works for your vendors and adheres to the contracts you have signed. The timeline for your wedding day is often a living document that will have multiple revisions before it is ultimately set. Once the final timeline is set, it is important to send it to your vendor team to assure that everyone is on the same page. Sending the document out will allow all of your vendors to provide you a seamless experience!
Here is one of our most common timelines to start from:
9:00 AM - Hair & Makeup Begin
12:30 PM - Couple Gets Dressed
1:00 PM - First Look
2:00 - 3:30 PM - Photos
4:00 PM - Ceremony
4:30 - 5:30 PM - Cocktail Hour
6:00 PM - Dinner
7:30 PM - First Dance
12:00 AM - End
