Timeline Help!!

If you're having professional hair and/or makeup done, you should start by asking the artist how much time you'll need for the number of people getting ready. Are you doing any photos before the ceremony? It will be very difficult to fit couples photos, family photos, and wedding party photos in during cocktail hour, so I would try to knock some out before. There's a lot of unknown variables here.

Is there somewhere you can hide while guests arrive at the ceremony space? If so, I'd get there around 6:10-6:15. Are you having HAMU professionally done? Taking getting ready pictures?

Every little part of a wedding takes time. I would talk to your photographer, and see what they suggest for taking photos before the ceremony, and how long each set of photos will take. That should help you with the timeline.

Also talk to your hair and makeup person. They should be able to tell you how long each service will take for each person. That should also help you figure your timeline. Example: if you need 3 hours for hair and makeup for you and your BMs, then you should start no later than like 3pm, so you can be done by 6pm, and on your way to the venue. Add another hour for taking photos of the wedding party, etc.

These vendors have experience with timelines if they've ever worked a wedding before. So, use their expertise.

Are you hiring a DJ? Most of the DJs I'm looking at provide timeline help since they would help run any games, speeches, or dances. Your venue might be able to suggest a timeline for ceremony events, and as PPs have said definitely ask your photographer and HMUA how much time they need for what you want them to accomplish.

A lot of info but figured this would help!

My timeline:

8-2: HAMU- Bride & bridesmaids- plus some getting ready shots

2-2:30: Bridal Portraits

2:30-3:15- Pics of bridesmaids & bride

3:30- Groom & groomsmen photos

4:15- Letters to be delivered to Bride & groom (we are writing letters to each other and BM & MOH will deliver them)

4:45: First look with my Dad

5:00: Bride & bridesmaids hide out in lounge while guests arrive, GM help usher guests

5:30: Ceremony!

6:00: Cocktail hour begins, photobooth opens, Family/wedding party photos begin

7:00: Reception begins, First dance, Prayer, welcome & dinner

8:15: Toasts, Special dances,

8:35: Cake cutting

8:40: Dance floor opens

10:00: Garter/Bouquet toss

11:00: Send off!