Your vendors are booked and all of your details are coming into place. Now comes the part that can be somewhat intimidating.. planning the timeline! This isn’t the most exciting aspect of the wedding day but this is the one thing that can make or break your photography. So how do you plan a timeline that works for you and your wedding day dreams?!

YOUR VENDORS ARE YOUR NUMBER ONE RESOURCE

As a photographer, it is my job to be an expert in all things wedding, and that includes timelines! I help all my couples to create a photography timeline that works to make sure that there is time for all of their special moments without making the day feel rushed or hurried. Your venue coordinator, day of coordinator, and DJ also play a key roll in making sure the day runs smoothly. So always make sure to communicate all of the details you have planned with all of your vendors.

TIMELINE TIPS: THE KEY TO A RELAXED WEDDING DAY

I don’t expect you to know how to create a timeline for your wedding day, because chances are this is your first time! I’ve experienced hundreds of weddings, and I have learned the Dos and Don’ts of what makes up the most ideal wedding day, that will have you feeling so relaxed and confident, and your guests raving about your wedding for years to come! Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you create your timeline!

DO: Remember that your wedding day is unique to you! Every “ideal” wedding day timeline is going to look different based on what you have planned for your day. Just make sure to take into account all of the special moments that will be taking place through out your day as you create your timeline, and don’t be afraid for your timeline to look a little unique!

DON’T: Rush your morning! Some couples are so excited for their ceremony or party, that they forget to plan their mornings. Make sure to leave plenty of time for your photographer to capture all of the small moments of the morning. Think about what you want to include in the getting ready portion of your day: will you be exchanging gifts or letters with your fiancé, do you want to include a father/daughter first look? Who do you want to help you get ready?

DO: Leave extra time in your timeline. The number one mistake I see being made when creating a timeline, is that couple’s underestimate how much time things will take on their wedding day. Leaving extra time in your timeline makes it possible for us to catch up on time later, if something like a wardrobe malfunction happens in the morning, which is common with dresses. There are so many things that can cause a timeline to fall behind, which is why it is a great idea to space things out and leave time for you to relax and enjoy the day.

Below is a timeline sample for you to reference a sample of what a wedding day timeline might look like with a 4pm ceremony time-frame. This ideal time line is also based off of a wedding day that includes a first look. Remember that all wedding days are different and your time line may differ due to travel times and unique situations. 

Love this post? Check out these: 

Bride Tips: Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

Bride Tips: What is a First Look and Why You Should Have One

Bride Tips: Why a Great DJ is Important