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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
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The Ultimate Wedding Day Timeline Guide

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!

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