Sample Timeline for Wedding Day

This is only a sample of a typical wedding day in one location

We will discuss all the events and timing that are needed for your wedding day with you prior to the wedding, this timeline is for only one location, so if you have a church ceremony and separate reception location the timeline can look very different. Always keep in mind that things can be changed and moved around to fit your needs.

Planning for a 5:00 PM Ceremony and wedding in one location


2:00 PM – Photographer Arrives

  • Detail shots (dress, shoes, rings, invitations, etc.)
  • Candid getting-ready moments
  • Final hair & makeup touch-ups
  • Flat lay styling & prep

3:00-4:00 PM – First Look OR Solo Bride/Groom Portraits

  • First look between couple (if doing one)
  • Individual portraits of bride and/or groom
  • Family and wedding party photos (if with first look everything can be photographed together, if no first look separate photos will be taken now and additional photos will be after ceremony)
  • Couple Romantic Photos (if doing first look)

4:00-5:00 PM – Detail Photos and Guest arrival - Couple rests and gets final touch-ups

  • Couple retreats to rooms to not be seen by guest arrival
  • Hair/makeup touch-ups, dress steaming, water/snack break
  • Photographer captures guest arrivals and ceremony setup

5:00 PM – Ceremony Begins

5:30 PM – Ceremony Ends

(Assuming a 30-minute ceremony)

  • Quick post-ceremony congratulations and hugs
  • Group photo with guests, if desired

5:45–6:45 PM – Cocktail Hour

  • Photographer uses this time for:
  • Remaining family portraits (if not done earlier)
  • Couple Romantic portraits in golden hour light
  • Candids of guests at cocktail hour
  • Reception & detail shots (décor, tables, etc.)

6:45 PM – Guests Seated for Dinner

7:00 PM – Reception Begins

  • Grand entrance
  • First dance, toasts, dinner, etc.

7:30 PM – Sunset Portraits (Optional)

  • Step out for 10–15 minutes for dreamy sunset couple portraits if golden hour timing allows (especially in summer months)

8:00 PM – Reception Events as per DJ and/or Coordinator

  • Photographer captures parent dances, cake cutting, bouquet and garter toss, and any other formalities plus dancing photos

9:00 PM-end – Photographer Wraps Up

(Depending on package coverage and events scheduled) *We always talk beforehand if more or less coverage is needed depending on your event timeline, also will always be sure you don't need any other photos or coverage before leaving the event. If additional time is needed, hours can always be added with us at any time before or during the wedding day.