Let’s be honest—planning your day of wedding timeline can feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of your entire wedding process. For most couples, this is the very first time orchestrating an event of this scale. Whether you’re leaning on recently-married friends for advice, asking vendors what’s worked for their past clients, or frantically Googling “how to make a wedding timeline,” it’s easy to feel lost.
Take a breath—you’re in the right place. I’m a Canadian wedding photographer, and I’ve helped countless couples craft wedding timelines that are stress-free, seamless, and most importantly, true to them. Whether you’re planning a full-day celebration or an intimate elopement, getting your timeline right sets the tone for your entire wedding experience.
And to make this easier than ever? I’ve created a free Wedding Timeline Generator to help you build your perfect timeline in just minutes. Check it out here:
Step 1: Ask These Questions to Build Your Ideal Day of Wedding Timeline
Before you even start plugging in times, it’s important to understand the moving parts of your wedding day. These questions will help you identify what matters most, where you’ll need buffer time, and what your priorities truly are.
Questions to Ask:
Where will you and your partner be getting ready?
Is your glam squad coming to you, or will you be going to them?
What time do you plan to start hair and makeup?
Are “getting ready” photos important to you? (This could include detail shots, candids with your wedding party, robe photos, hair/makeup moments, and emotional first looks.)
Do you want getting ready photos of both partners?
Are you planning a first look before the ceremony?
If yes, do you want portraits done before the ceremony too?
Where is your ceremony located, and what time does it start?
What kind of vibe do you want for your portraits? (Urban adventure? Cozy patio drinks? Nature escape?)
What time are you aiming for dinner to start?
Do you want golden hour portraits in the evening?
Are there any unique traditions or moments you want built into the day?
Each answer plays a critical role in shaping your day of wedding timeline. From travel time between locations to lighting preferences for portraits, these details will help you build a timeline that actually works—not one that leaves you rushed or flustered. but the answers to those twelve questions will give you the perfect start to your wedding timeline.
Your Shortcut: Use the Wedding Timeline Generator
If that list of questions has your head spinning, don’t stress. That’s exactly why I built the Wedding Timeline Generator. Just answer a few easy questions, and it’ll do the heavy lifting for you—creating a fully customized day-of timeline that fits your plans, priorities, and style.
No guesswork. No last-minute panic. Just a smooth, beautifully-paced wedding day.
Step Two: Know What Goes Into Your Day of Wedding Timeline
Think your wedding day is just about saying “I do” and hitting the dance floor? Surprise! There’s a lot more happening behind the scenes that needs to be accounted for in your day of wedding timeline. From hair and makeup to sunset photos and speeches, every little moment matters—and every one of them deserves a spot in your schedule.
Here’s a breakdown of the major elements you’ll want to include when planning your wedding day timeline:
Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup Begins
This is when the glam squad kicks into gear! Depending on how many bridesmaids are getting dolled up, this could start bright and early. For the perfect start time, connect with your hairstylist and makeup artist—they’ll help you map it out based on your group size and ceremony time.
Bride’s Hair & Makeup
A common misconception is that the bride should go last in the beauty lineup. From experience, I actually recommend you go in the middle of the schedule. This gives you extra time for touch-ups, lets you relax before things get hectic, and keeps the morning running smoothly. Trust me—less stress, more glow!
It may seem simple, but give the groom and his crew at least 30 minutes to get dressed and prepped. Between finding cufflinks and managing boutonnières, things can get chaotic fast.
Putting on the Dress
One of the most emotional and beautiful parts of the day! While it may seem quick, slipping into your gown can take longer than expected—especially if you’re doing it with your mom, best friend, or bridal crew. Build in extra time to savor the moment.
First Looks (Dad, Bridesmaids, or Your Partner)
Planning a first look? These sweet moments deserve their own slot in your day of wedding timeline. Whether it’s a first look with your dad, your bridesmaids, or your partner, account for the time needed—not just for the moment itself, but to breathe and take it all in.
Still deciding on whether to do a first look with your partner? I’ve broken down the pros and cons for you [here]!
Ceremony
Talk to your officiant or celebrant to get a sense of how long your ceremony will be. Then, pad that estimate with a little extra time in case of late guests, small delays, or spontaneous happy tears.
Family & Group Photos
These can take anywhere from 30–45 minutes, depending on the size of your family and how organized your list is. Pro tip: Work with your photographer ahead of time to create a shot list. It’ll make everything faster, smoother, and less stressful for everyone involved.
Wedding Party Photos
Whether you’re doing these before or after the ceremony, set aside 30 minutes to an hour. Tight on time? Your photographer can prioritize must-have shots and speed up the rest.
Couple’s Portraits
This is your time to shine together—just the two of you. The more time you can carve out here, the better. Planning to visit a few locations, pop into a favorite lounge, or take a stroll downtown? Make sure your day of wedding timeline allows for it!
Grand Entrance
This moment kicks off your reception with energy and excitement. Be sure to note when you want to walk into the room so the DJ, MC, or band is ready to cue the fun.
Dinner Begins
Dinner service often takes longer than expected, especially with a big guest list. Plan for at least an hour here, and keep in mind: if dinner runs late, the rest of your evening might too.
Sunset Photos
Sneaking away for 10–15 minutes during golden hour can result in some of the dreamiest photos of the day. Don’t worry—your guests will be busy enjoying dessert or grabbing another drink.
Speeches & Reception Program
Who’s giving speeches? Will you be playing any games, like the Shoe Game or a Photo Scramble? This part of the evening is incredibly personal, so build a timeline that reflects your unique style—and allows for each moment to land without feeling rushed.
First Dance & Dancing
Let’s get the party started! Whether you’re opening the dance floor with a slow sway or jumping straight into a full-blown bash, plan the time you want your formal dance moments to begin so your DJ or band can lead the flow effortlessly.
Bonus: Let the Timeline Build Itself
Sound like a lot to keep track of? It is—but don’t stress. That’s exactly why I created the Wedding Timeline Generator. It’s designed to help you build your perfect day of wedding timeline based on your answers to a few simple questions. No spreadsheets, no confusion—just a clear, personalized timeline to keep your day running smooth and stress-free.
Lets make it easy; Day of Wedding Timeline Checklist
Plan your perfect day—from first glam to last dance.
⏰ Before the Ceremony
Bridesmaids hair & makeup begins
Bride’s hair & makeup begins (middle of lineup recommended!)
Groom + groomsmen begin getting ready
Put on the dress (allow extra time + enjoy the moment)
First look with Dad / Parents (optional)
First look with Bridesmaids (optional)
First look with partner (optional—build in time to be present!)
Travel time to first look or ceremony site (if needed)
💍 Ceremony
Confirm ceremony time + length with officiant
Build in buffer time for guest arrival + potential delays
📸 Photos
Family & group portraits (30–45 minutes)
Wedding party photos (30–60 minutes)
Couple’s portraits (plan extra time if visiting multiple spots)
Golden hour / sunset photos (15 minutes during dinner!)
🍽️ Reception
Grand entrance
Dinner begins (plan for 1 hour minimum)
Speeches + formal program
Parent speeches
Best Man / Maid of Honour
Games / fun extras (Shoe Game, etc.)
First dance
Open dance floor
💡 Extras to Consider
Vendor meals + break time
Cake cutting (if applicable)
Photo booth or guest book timing
Late night snack or food truck arrival
✨ Ready to Create Yours?
Skip the guesswork—use my free Wedding Timeline Generator to build a customized timeline in just minutes:
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