Planning a Wedding Timeline | Wedding Tips and Advice

I have seen my fair share of weddings over the years and I have learned over time how long some of the most popular things take! Don’t stress out about your photos, timeline, or day and learn from my years of wedding experience!


Most wedding ceremonies

Most ceremonies are 20-30 minutes

1 hour to 1.5 hours if Catholic Mass


Bubble send off

Give yourself 15 minutes


Receiving line

30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many guests


Family photos

30 minutes


Wedding party photos

30 mins for a few quick poses

45 mins if you want lots of variety (I usually just have time for a few poses)


Photos of the couple

30 minutes minimum, 45-60 minutes preferred


Introductions, toasts, dinner, dances, cake, etc.

15 minutes for each event (add 5 minutes per toast over 2). Dinner will take one hour. 

Be sure to discuss all events with your DJ and photographer.


No after-dinner events like anniversary dances, bouquet toss, garter toss, etc.

2.5 hours after dinner begins without any major events is fine for your photographer to end.


Some or all above-mentioned events planned

3 hours after dinner begins is fine for your photographer to end.


Wedding day sunset photos

Add 10 minutes into your timeline a few minutes after the “official” sunset time Google gives you to have a vibrant sky.


To have the sun in your photos, plan on 10 minutes before sunset.


(Sun in your photos before the sun sets) 

sunset wedding photo hebans field of dreams

(Vibrant sky AFTER sunset)

I hope this quick rundown of events helps you learn how long things will take at your wedding!

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