Planning Tips
The Ultimate Wedding Day Timeline Guide
A detailed hour-by-hour timeline to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly from start to finish.
James Wilson
5 December 2023
9 min read
A well-planned timeline is the key to a stress-free wedding day. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you create the perfect schedule for your special day.
12-18 Months Before
- Set your budget
- Choose your date
- Book your venue
- Hire key vendors (photographer, caterer, planner)
6-12 Months Before
- Order your dress/suit
- Book remaining vendors
- Send save-the-dates
- Plan your honeymoon
3-6 Months Before
- Order invitations
- Plan your menu
- Book hair and makeup
- Schedule fittings
1-3 Months Before
- Send invitations
- Finalize guest count
- Create seating chart
- Plan rehearsal dinner
Wedding Day Timeline
Morning (Getting Ready)
- 8:00 AM - Hair and makeup begins
- 10:00 AM - Photographer arrives for getting ready shots
- 11:30 AM - Get dressed
- 12:00 PM - First look (if applicable)
Afternoon (Ceremony)
- 2:00 PM - Arrive at ceremony venue
- 2:30 PM - Ceremony begins
- 3:00 PM - Ceremony ends
- 3:00-4:00 PM - Photos (family, wedding party, couple)
Evening (Reception)
- 5:00 PM - Cocktail hour begins
- 6:00 PM - Reception begins
- 6:30 PM - Dinner service
- 7:30 PM - Speeches and toasts
- 8:00 PM - First dance
- 8:30 PM - Cake cutting
- 9:00 PM - Open dancing
- 11:00 PM - Last dance
Remember, this is just a guide. Adjust times based on your specific needs and preferences. The most important thing is to build in buffer time and stay flexible!