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
2:15 p.m.
Special Moments
2:15pm - Special Moments
Note: These include bride + father first look, bridesmaids first look, gift exchanges, or this could be used as buffer time if things run over in the morning.
IV
2:45 p.m.
Bridesmaids + Groomsmen
2:45 bridesmaids + groomsmen
Note: Extra time is given here depending on the venue and whether or not these can happen at the same time without the bride and groom seeing each other.
V
3:30 p.m.
Couple Rest
3:30 - couple rest
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.
VI
4:00 p.m.
Ceremony
4:00pM ceremony
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.
Family Formals
4:30pm family formals
Note: We do family portraits right after the ceremony because everyone you need will be easy to grab.
VIII
5:00 P.M.
Bridal Party
5:00pm full bridal party
Note: We do full bridal party after the ceremony because the bride and groom can't see each other before the ceremony.
IX
5:15-6:00 p.M.
Bride + Groom
5:15pm bride + groom
Note: I love being able to give my couples at least 30 minutes together for their portraits. Just know that without a First Look you'll be missing out on cocktail hour and if anything runs behind with the ceremony it could affect your portrait time.
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.
