The Ultimate Wedding Day Timeline: Hour by Hour

8:00 AM — Rise and Shine

Start the day with a calm morning. Have a good breakfast delivered to wherever you're getting ready — you'll need the energy. Avoid anything that might stain (looking at you, red smoothies).

9:00 AM — Hair and Makeup Begins

The bride or whoever needs the most time should go first. Most stylists recommend allowing 60-90 minutes per person. Put on a button-down shirt so you don't mess up your hair when changing later.

12:00 PM — Lunch Break

Have light, easy-to-eat food available — sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water. Trust us, you won't want to eat heavy food before squeezing into formalwear.

1:00 PM — Get Dressed

This is when the photographer should arrive to capture the details: shoes, jewelry, the dress or suit hanging up. Allow extra time for buttoning, lacing, or any complicated closures.

2:00 PM — First Look (Optional)

If you're doing a first look, this is the ideal time. It gives you a private, emotional moment and opens up the schedule for more relaxed portrait time before the ceremony.

2:30 PM — Wedding Party Photos

Knock out bridal party and family portraits now so you can enjoy cocktail hour with your guests later. Give your photographer a shot list in advance.

4:00 PM — Ceremony

Most ceremonies last 20-30 minutes. Build in a 15-minute buffer before for seating guests and a 15-minute buffer after for the recessional and receiving line.

5:00 PM — Cocktail Hour

While guests enjoy drinks and appetizers, you'll sneak away for golden-hour couples portraits. This is often when the best photos happen.

6:00 PM — Reception

Grand entrance, first dance, dinner, toasts, cake cutting, and dancing. Work with your DJ or band to create a flow that keeps energy high all night.

10:00 PM — Last Dance and Send-Off

End the night with a memorable send-off — sparklers, confetti, or a classic car. Whatever you choose, make it yours.