The Wedding Timeline That Lets You Actually Enjoy Your Day
What’s the worst thing you could feel after your wedding day?
“We felt rushed the whole day.”
“We barely got to enjoy it ourselves.”
“It felt like we spent all day taking photos and no time with our guests.”
The truth is, great photography shouldn’t pull you away from your own celebration. In fact, with a thoughtful timeline, it can make your day feel calmer, more intentional, and fully yours.
Because your wedding day isn’t a photoshoot — it’s one of the most meaningful days of your life, and it deserves to feel that way.
After photographing over 200 weddings, here’s a sample structure I recommend for a smooth, stress-free day — one where you can be fully present, soak up every moment, and still walk away with the images you’ve been dreaming of.
Ease Into the Day: Getting Ready (2–3 Hours Before)
Believe it or not, this part isn’t just about the pretty flat lays or “let’s have mom pretend to zip up your dress” shots. (Hot take: I personally think stylized flat lays are overrated. I prefer detail photos that reflect the environment they’re in — see example.)
This time is about capturing the anticipation and atmosphere: your dad practicing his speech while adjusting his tie, or your best friend steaming your veil while humming along to the playlist. These photos help tell the full story — like the opening scene of a movie — so you can see what each other experienced before you met for the first time on your wedding day.
Steal a Quiet Moment: First Look & Pre-Ceremony Photos (45–60 Minutes)
Many couples debate whether or not to do a first look. Some prefer the tradition of seeing each other for the first time walking down the aisle. In my experience, a first look doesn’t take away from that moment — if anything, it adds a private, intimate memory for just the two of you, especially if you don’t love being the centre of attention.
Following the first look, this is the perfect time for your couple portraits while hair and makeup are fresh.
Pro Tip: A first look isn’t just about photos — it’s about creating a pocket of calm together before the whirlwind of the day.
Legacy of Your VIPs: Wedding Party/Family Photos (30 minutes)
If you have a wedding party or close family to photograph, this is a great moment to do it before guests arrive. These are the photos you’ll frame, gift, and look back on for decades — a chance to commemorate the people who mean the most to you.
Pro Tip: Remember to create some down time (at least 30 minutes) before the ceremony starts.
The Heart of the Day: Your Ceremony (30–60 Minutes)
All you need to do here is be fully present. I’ll handle the rest — capturing the joy, the nerves, the tears, and every in-between moment you’ll want to relive.
Savour the Celebration: Cocktail Hour (60 Minutes)
If we’ve done a first look, you’ll be free to spend this time with your guests — sipping a drink, grabbing a canapé, laughing with friends.
If not, we’ll use part of this hour for family and wedding party photos, plus a quick couple session. I still recommend making it to as much of cocktail hour as possible. It’s the only part of your day where you’re unscheduled, mingling, and truly able to soak in the company of the people you’ve invited.
Chasing the Glow: Golden Hour Portraits (15–20 Minutes)
Just before sunset, we can slip away for a few minutes. The light is soft, romantic, and flattering — perfect for portraits that feel magical without pulling you away for long. It’s also a great time if you have a second reception outfit to capture.
This is optional! If you feel “photo-ed out” by this point, that’s completely okay.
Pro Tip: Check the sunset time for your wedding month. Aim for portraits within the hour before the sunset time for the dreamiest light.
Dance, Toast, Celebrate: Reception Coverage (Rest of the Night)
Once the reception starts, I fade into the background and document the celebration as it naturally unfolds — the toasts, the laughter, the chaotic dance floor moments, and the quiet glances in between.
These are the images that will become your visual legacy, telling the story of not just your wedding, but the way it felt.
Remember, a great timeline isn’t about squeezing in as many photos as possible — it’s about making space for the moments that matter most. If you’d like me to help build a custom timeline that feels effortless and works perfectly for your day, let’s talk.
