WEDDING PLANNING | TIMELINE TIPS

1. Start Hair and Makeup Earlier Than You Think

Hair and makeup delays are the most common reason wedding day timelines get off track. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 45–60 minutes per person and to pad in a little buffer time for touch-ups or small delays. Be sure to ask your hair and make-up team what they recommend for timing as well!

Pro Tip: If you’re doing bridal party hair and makeup, have the bride ready early so your photographer can start with “getting ready” photos while the others finish up.

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2. Plan for a “Buffer Window” Before You Get Dressed

Give yourself a solid 30–45 minutes between finishing hair/makeup and putting on your dress. This gives you time to:

• Freshen up
• Use the restroom before the dress goes on (trust me, it’s tricky in the dress!)
• Soak in the moment without rushing
• Do a first look with your bridesmaids or dad

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3. Consider a First Look to Ease the Timeline

First looks can seriously help your timeline breathe. Not only do they create a quiet, emotional moment between you and your fiance, but they also allow you to take most of your portraits before the ceremony.

This means you can enjoy cocktail hour—or at least take a deep breath—after you say “I do.”

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4. Build in Travel Time (Even if It’s Just Across Town)

If your wedding day includes any driving—whether it’s from the hotel to the venue or the ceremony to the reception—build in extra time for:

• Traffic
• Parking
• Loading/unloading
• Last-minute dress fluffing before walking in

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5. Sunset Photos? Know the Golden Hour!

If you’re dreaming of soft, glowing light in your couple portraits, plan them around golden hour—the hour before sunset. Check the sunset time for your date and location, then schedule 5-10 minutes for golden hour photos into your timeline.

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6. Keep the Ceremony + Reception Flowing

A seamless transition between ceremony and reception keeps guests happy and avoids that awkward downtime. If you’re not doing a first look, plan time after the ceremony for:

• Family portraits (20–30 mins)
• Wedding party group photos (20-30 mins depending on the size)
• Couple portraits (20-30 mins)

Meanwhile, guests can enjoy cocktails, music, and snacks—ideally somewhere picturesque!

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7. Pad the Schedule… Then Pad It Again

Things always take longer than expected. Book an experienced planner to keep up with the schedule so you don’t have to. A few extra minutes here and there can make the difference between chaos and calm.

PS – I have a FREE wedding planning timeline just for you! This timeline includes both first look and non-first look options. Click the button below to get yours!