Your wedding timeline is important… like really REALLY important.

It determines the overall flow and order of events for the day. Without a well-thought-out timeline, things can spiral out of control quickly. Your timeline helps you and your bridal party know when everyone needs to be ready, where you need to be and when, how long each event should take, and so much more! Wedding vendors (like yours truly) rely on a solid timeline more than you know.

One way I make sure all my brides have that easygoing, stress-free experience is by creating the timeline for them! After I get your pre-wedding questionnaire, I craft a detailed schedule that accounts for every single detail of your day. That includes when hair and makeup should wrap up, when and where the flowers should arrive, how long family formals will take, and even when reception entrances, speeches, and toasts will start.

When planning your timeline, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Factor in travel time to and from the ceremony and reception spaces—don’t forget about traffic!
• Plan for 30–40 minutes for the first look and portraits, plus another 20 minutes for bridal party pictures.
• Have all your family in one place for family formals and a clear idea of who you want in those shots (especially grandparents and kids).
• Give your photographer time to capture the reception details untouched. No guests should enter the reception during cocktail hour!
• Got a big bridal party? Hire more than one hairstylist and makeup artist.
• Don’t wait until the morning of the wedding to steam your dress—just don’t.
• Build in extra time for getting ready. There’s always something that takes longer than expected.
• Put all your details (invitations, jewelry, shoes, etc.) in a box so your photographer can grab it and get started right away!

Now that you’re armed with those tips, here’s an overview of an 8-hour wedding timeline with a first look. (You’re Welcome)

Bridal Details
Time: 45 minutes–1 hour
This is when I warm up and get creative! I’ll grab your detail box (see last tip above!) and style your items in a way that matches the colors and theme of your day. Once the details are done, hair and makeup should be finishing up, so I can get those fun shots of the final touches—like the last spritz of hairspray or a swipe of lipstick. I’ll also grab pictures of you and your girls in your robes or PJs!

PRO TIP: You should not be the last one in the hair and makeup chair. Go right after the first couple of bridesmaids so that when I finish photographing the details, we can get you in your dress without delay!

Getting in the Dress
Time: 45 minutes
This step can take 10 minutes—or 45! It’s always good to plan for extra time just in case. Most of the time, I’m right there helping you into your dress, adjusting your shapewear, and buttoning you up (so yes, you really do need to love your photographer LOL). Once you’re dressed, I’ll snap those special shots of Mom buttoning your gown, you putting on earrings, or other sweet moments.

PRO TIP: Want to do a bridesmaid first look? I’ll hide you away in a separate room while your girls get dressed. Once everyone’s ready, I’ll set up the perfect reveal moment… but make sure to factor this into the timeline!

First Look
Time: 5–10 minutes
I could write an entire novel about how amazing first looks are, but I’ll keep it short. If you choose to do a first look, I’ll find a private spot away from prying eyes where you and your groom can have this special moment. I’ll position you both perfectly to capture the emotions of seeing each other for the first time!

Bride and Groom Portraits
Time: 20–30 minutes
Right after your first look, we’ll jump into bride and groom portraits. This is a great time to get the bulk of your couple’s photos done so you can spend more time with guests after the ceremony. I’ll pick a few different spots to give you lots of variety!

Bridal Party Photos
Time: 20 minutes
I have a tried-and-true system that makes bridal party photos quick and painless (but still fun). Whether your party is big or small, we’ll capture all the important shots like bride + bridesmaids, groom + groomsmen, and you with each individual bridesmaid.

PRO TIP: Bridesmaids, don’t forget your bouquets! And make sure everyone in your party is ready to go after the first look. Sometimes, depending on the flow of the day, I’ll do bridal party pictures before bride and groom portraits just to make sure we’re not missing anyone. Don’t let anyone go too far!

Ceremony Prep & Decor Photos
Time: 10–15 minutes
Before the ceremony begins, I’ll photograph your ceremony space untouched and grab any last-minute family formals if time allows. This is your time to rest and re-touch before the ceremony starts.

Ceremony
Time: 5–30 minutes
This is your time to relax and soak in the moment. I’ll capture all the angles and emotions as you say “I do.”

Family Formals
Time: 20 minutes
We’ll knock out the rest of the family formals immediately after the ceremony while everyone is in one spot. I always photograph grandparents and kids first and save the larger group shots for later.

Reception Decor
Time: 30–40 minutes
Your reception space is a reflection of your vision, so I make it a priority to capture every detail untouched. No jackets, purses, or guests should be in the space yet—trust me, it makes a huge difference!

Reception Entrances & Candid Moments
Time: 5–10 minutes
Once the reception starts, the vibe becomes more relaxed. I’ll photograph your entrances, first dances, toasts, and all the sweet candid moments. After dinner, we’ll grab shots of everyone letting loose on the dance floor.

PRO TIP: Don’t miss out on sunset portraits! Sneak away for 5–10 minutes during your reception for those dreamy, golden-hour shots. It’s always SO WORTH IT!!!!

And there you have it—a wedding day timeline designed to keep things fun, stress-free, and running smooth!