How to Create the Perfect Wedding Day Timeline!
The first step in creating your timeline is to make a list of things you want to happen on your wedding day, for example, getting your hair and makeup done, first look, photos that you want, toasts and who will be making them, etc.. The next step is to use the vendors that you have hired. These vendors are experienced and have seen so many weddings (good and bad), let them help and give you tips.
Talk with your venue, figure out when you can get into the venue and when you have to be cleaned up for the night, you now have the amount of time you have for your day. Next, ask what they offer in terms of setting up, cleaning, etc. The less you have to do to get the venue ready the more time you have for yourself. Most venues will have decor packages and will be able to set up these items for you, all you need to do is add your personal touches. Your venue sees weddings every weekend. They know what will work and what will not, and take their advice into consideration.
Talk with your DJ, one of the most important vendors to discuss your day with. Chances are that you will have the DJ for the ceremony and reception, especially if they are in the same location, they will be able to help you decide how long it will take for speeches, dances and cake cutting, let them make suggestions and help lead the way.
Third, your photographer will be with you most of the day. Have a list of photos you would like, first look, bridal party, family, specialty like sunset etc. Another great tip is check out the venue, or wherever you are taking photos and get some inspiration prior to your wedding day. The more photos you get done before the ceremony the less you have to do after the ceremony, and you can get to your guests and the reception faster. I would suggest telling the photographer what time you want to be entering the reception, so you are finished on time. Also, leave some time for you and the groom or even the bridal party to fix your hair, bustle your dress or just take a minute to enjoy being married before you enter the hustle and bustle of the reception.
You may also want to incorporate photos, or time after the party has started. Do you want sunset photos, and will your photographer still be around? Do you want to escape for a private dance where you don’t have people surrounding you? Do you have late night snacks coming and what time?
Once your timeline is built make sure all the vendors have a copy so that they are all on the same page and working together to make your day stress free. If you’re getting married at The Mane Barn, or you have a day of coordinator, they will be able to keep this timeline and make sure everything happens for you. The most important thing to keep in mind about your wedding day timeline is to make sure you have some personal time and that all the different aspects of your day are in that timeline.