kgossman The Power of the Timeline
Let’s talk timelines! Yep! The magical wedding timeline that keeps everything going smoothly! Today we’re getting you set up for timeline success! Read below for sample timelines and all the tips and tricks so your day runs smoothly and your stay relaxed!
First Look
The biggest timeline differentiator is whether you’re doing a first look or not. As a planner, I am biased to the first look. It makes the day run so much smoother, helps you begin socializing faster, and gives you a private moment with your fiancé that allows you to be in all your emotions without millions of eyes on you. But many brides opt for not doing a first look, and that’s great too! You can get some amazing pictures of your fiancé seeing you for the first time walking down the aisle! No matter what you decide, your day will be amazing!
Plenty of Time
Make sure you schedule in plenty of time for couple photos, bridal party, and family photos in your timeline. Just to be sure, once you get it done, send it to your photographer for approval. They know how long they’ll need to complete everything. If you photographer tells you time allotments such as couple 45 mins, bridal party 20 mins, etc. schedule in extra time as a buffer if you can. I have worked with several photographers who got us way behind schedule! Give yourself extra time.
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Logistics
Don’t forget to also include time for guests to move from one location to another (or drive time). Even getting 150 guests to move from one room, down a hall, and into another room can take 10 minutes. Plan accordingly so you’re covered! Many of these people haven’t seen family in a long time and they love to stand around and chit chat while you’re trying to herd cats.
Be Flexible
Lastly, be flexible with your timeline on your big day. You should have someone else in charge of overseeing everything on your wedding day so you can relax. Discuss with them beforehand if you’re comfortable with them making small adjustments in the moment based on the vibe or if this is strictly enforced. The more flexibility you give them, the more guests will be relaxed and things seem to flow better. Sometimes it takes longer than usual for dinner service or speeches go over. Scheduling in a time cushion helps with this.
Photography
Look closely at your photography contract when creating your timeline. Most wedding packages are 8 hours of shooting, but some can be 10 hours. Some photographers are willing to add on an extra 30 minutes when you provide a meal for them, but not all. If you want getting ready pictures as well as pictures of your sendoff, you need to coordinate the times to fit your photographer’s contract. They will not stay longer for free just because you’re nice. Some offer additional hours to be added on if needed, but these need to be planned ahead of time and stated in your contract.
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Overall, there’s a lot to think about regarding wedding day timelines. If you’ve hired a planner for your big day, they can create this with you. If you don’t yet have a planner, join our Monthly Planning Membership for monthly planning and get your custom wedding timeline from us.
Happy Planning!
