sample timeline based off of 10 hours of coverage and everything occurring at one venue
i
12:00 p.m.
Details
12pm - details
Note: Melissa and assistant arrive and begin shooting details. Ideally by the time we arrive, hair and make-up is already wrapping up.
Ii
1:15 p.m.
Getting Ready
Note: Melissa will be with the bride and the second photographer will be with the groom.
1:15pm - GETTING READY
IIi
2:00 p.m.
Special Moments
2:00pm - Special Moments
Note: These include bride + father first look, gift exchanges, or this could be used as buffer time if things run over in the morning.
IV
2:30 p.m.
First Look
2:30 First Look
Note: The First Look can take place at the getting ready location, ceremony, or reception location.
V
3:15 p.m.
Bridal Party
3:15 - Bridal Party Portraits
Note: During this time we'll do full bridal party portraits and then Melissa will be with the bride and bridesmaids while the second photographer is with the groom and groomsmen.
VI
4:00 p.m.
Couple Rest
3:45/4:00pM Couple Refresh
Note: The bride and groom can have some downtime to rest before the processional line-up. Melissa will take this time to photograph the reception space untouched.
VII
4:30 p.m.
Ceremony
4:30pm Ceremony
Note: If you are having a First Look, be sure to schedule your ceremony about 2 hours before sunset. If your reception is fully indoors you could do one hour and a half before sunset.
VIII
5:00 P.M.
Family Formals
5:00pm family formals
Note: We do family portraits right after the ceremony because everyone you need will be easy to grab.
IX
5-6:00 p.M.
Cocktail Hour
5:00pm Cocktail Hour
Note: The great thing about doing a First Look is that it gives you time at cocktail hour after family formals. We might even be able to sneak in a few "just married" sunset portraits too.
X
6:00 P.M.
Sunset
6:00pm Sunset
Note: If your reception is outdoors with no tent coverage, I recommend scheduling your ceremony at least 2 plus hours before sunset so that you have beautiful twilight lighting for the first dance.
XI
6:15 P.M.
Guests invited to Dinner and Introductions
6:15pm Dinner
XII
6:30 P.M.
First Dance
6:30pm First dance & toasts
Note: First Dance usually followed by welcome toasts, salads, speeches, and then entrees.
XIII
7:30 P.M.
Party Begins!
7:30pm Dancing
XIV
8:30 P.M.
Cake cutting followed by bouquet and garter toss.
8:30pm Traditions
Note: These can also be spaced out throughout the evening. If you have 8 or 9 hours of coverage I recommend talking to your DJ to ensure the traditions happen before your coverage ends at 8pm or 9pm.
XV
10:00 P.M.
Exit
10:00pm Photographers Depart
Note: This timeline is based off of 10 hours of coverage. Typically receptions end at 10pm or 11pm, depending on the sound ordinance of the city. If you are having an exit (pictured here), I recommend 10 hours of coverage.
