Creating your timeline
How do you create a wedding day timeline? With my help of course. We will create the optimal schedule for your day so you can spend your wedding day enjoying the moment.
A couple of months prior to your wedding, you'll have most of your details planned and I want to hear all about it. I'll ask you a list of questions, which you can answer via email at your leisure.
Once I have your plans, I'll draft up a timeline for your day. We will review it together and ensure you have time for everything you want to do.
If something doesn't go according to plan and you're veering off schedule, I'll check in with you, giving you options to decide how you'd like to proceed.
Hair & Makeup
Are you going to a salon or having someone come to you? How many other people need their hair and makeup done too? Depending on exactly what you're planning with a first look, you may want to be the second to last person o get your makeup done. That way, the makeup artists can still be finishing up the bridal party while we photograph you and your partner together. or maybe you want your bridal party involved in the first look, or choose to forgo a first look all together. these plans for your day will help determine the order and timing of your hair and makeup.
Getting ready
Jewelry. Shoes. Gown. Veil. Suit. Tie. Watch. Something borrowed. Something blue.
But most importantly, make sure you eat and stay hydrated. It'll likely be 6+ hours until you eat dinner.
Lovenotes
Some couples exchange handwritten love notes, or sentimental gifts before they walk down the aisle. If you're planning to do this, give yourself enough time to fully embrace the moment. (And perhaps fix your makeup after.)
Bridal Portraits
You've probably spent a lot of time planning exactly what you're going to wear, down to every detail in your shoes, jewelry, hair and makeup. Now that you look your very best, take a moment and appreciate it. Before the fast paced day slips away from you.
Bridal Party
If your bridal party is getting ready at the same location as you, we can take some portraits before the ceremony. Otherwise, we can do this during cocktail hour.
First Look
Some couples choose to see each other before the wedding, to share an intimate moment before all of your friends and family arrive. If you choose to do a First Look, afterwards you can take your couples bridal portraits so you can spend more time with your guests during cocktail hour.
Transportation
I'm sure you've googled exactly how long it takes to get to and from every location on your wedding day, but add in a few extra minutes for unexpected traffic or late arrivals.
If you're getting ready at the venue, how long will it take you to walk to the ceremony location? Will you need to wait for an elevator? Or make the journey in heels?
You've arrived
You've arrived at the ceremony location and your guests are settling in. You may want 5-10 minutes before walking down the aisle to use the restroom, drink some water or adjust your
Ceremony
You might have a full religious ceremony or a short Justice of the Peace service. When you're calculating your ceremony time, account for any readings, or acts of unity that you'll preform together.
Formal portraits
In addition to all those great candid moments I'll capture, we will also take some formal portraits. You might be a natural in front of the camera already while you're swooning with love, or you may need my professional help for the most flattering positions. The more time we spend on portraits, the more favorites you'll have to choose from. Keep in mind these can be taken at your venue location, or in another place entirely.
Cocktail hour
How much time will you have to mingle with your guests during cocktail hour? The more photos we take in advance, the more time you'll have to enjoy the party.
Introductions
Your guests will take their seats while you and usually your bridal party are lined up and introduced. Often with dances or props.
first dance
After you're introduced to your crowd as newlyweds, you'll embark on your first dance as a married couple. Friends and family will gather around to watch and celebrate with you.
Parent dances
Your parents will be full of emotion when they have a chance to dance with you. Laughter, joy, and pride, are just some of the feelings I've captured during these moments.
Speaches
The Best Man, the Maid of Honor, maybe even your parents. Everyone will have something to say about celebrating your love.
Salad
Once your guests are seated, the first course will be served. I won't take photos of you with your mouths full, I'll be capturing the detail shots during this time.
Cake Cutting
In order for your venue to serve your cake for dessert, you'll cut the cake after the salad and before the entree.
Dinner
I'm sure you've chosen a delicious meal for your guests. Make sure you take a break from greeting everyone and eat too!
greeting your guests
You'll want to individually thank everyone in attendance, but what's the best way to go about it? Some couples opt for a receiving line as they exit the church, while others prefer to visit each table during the reception. Either way, estimate a few minutes per person invited.
Celebrations
They're dressed up and having a great time celebrating your love story.
Sunset
Step away from your reception for a moment to take it all in.
Dusk
When the sun sets, the sky may become even more beautiful.
Last dance
Sing, dance, and celebrate the end of a great day with your friends and family.
Send off
A grand exit, a sparkler exit, a big goodbye, or hopping into your limo or wedding trolley.
