Planning your wedding timeline is like choreographing a dance—every moment needs to flow just right. Whether you're keeping it classic, adding a first look, or planning a cozy elopement, here are 3 timeline styles that prioritize both your day and your photos.

Option 1: Morning Wedding Timeline (Lunch Reception)

Best for: Couples who love natural light, want a relaxed pace, or are early risers at heart.

Sample Timeline:

6:30 AM – Hair & makeup begins

8:00 AM – Photographer arrives (getting ready + detail shots)

9:30 AM – First look + couple portraits

10:15 AM – Family & wedding party photos

11:00 AM – Ceremony begins (garden, chapel, or terrace)

11:30 AM – Ceremony ends, light cocktails or coffee bar

12:00 PM – Lunch reception begins

12:30 PM – First dance + short toasts

1:00 PM – Lunch is served

2:00 PM – Cake cutting + relaxed mingling

2:30 PM – Open dancing or chill time

4:00 PM – Grand exit or event wrap-up

📝 Photography Tip: Morning weddings mean dreamy soft light, fewer shadows, and a relaxed portrait session before guests arrive.

Option 2: First Look Timeline

Best for: Couples who want more portrait time and a relaxed schedule.

Sample Timeline:

10:30 AM – Hair & makeup starts

12:30 PM – Photographer arrives

2:00 PM – First look + couple portraits

2:45 PM – Wedding party portraits

3:30 PM – Family portraits

4:00 PM – Ceremony

4:30 PM – Cocktail hour (you can enjoy it!)

5:30 PM – Reception begins

6:00 PM – Grand entrance + dinner

7:00 PM – Toasts + dances

8:00 PM – Cake + party

9:30 PM – Sunset/night portraits

10:00 PM – Grand exit

📝 Photography Tip: A first look allows for more creative and unhurried photo sessions—plus, more time with your guests!

Option 3: Micro-Wedding or Elopement Flow

Best for: Intimate weddings, destination elopements, or off-the-grid ceremonies.

Sample Timeline:

12:00 PM – Photographer arrives for getting ready

1:30 PM – First look or portraits

2:30 PM – Ceremony (scenic location)

3:00 PM – Champagne toast + candid moments

3:30 PM – Couple portraits in multiple spots

5:00 PM – Private dinner or reception

6:30 PM – Sunset or adventure shoot

7:30 PM – Photography ends

📝 Photography Tip: Elopements give you room to be creative—think hikes, city strolls, or quiet lakeside moments.

Final Thoughts

No matter your wedding style, your timeline should reflect your priorities. If photography is one of them (and we’re guessing it is!), plan with your photographer early so you can capture every moment without feeling rushed.

Want help customizing your wedding day timeline? Reach out— I'd love to help you make it help you make it beautifully seamless and stress-free.