Want to know wedding timeline mistakes (and how to avoid them)? Read on!
It’s no secret that planning a wedding can feel like playing 5 games of chess at once. From the moment the ring slips on your finger, you’re bombarded with questions from well-meaning loved ones. “What venue did you pick?” “What colors are you wearing?” “Did you remember to invite your great-aunt?”. And while these details are well-worth your consideration, so much overwhelm and excitement leaves couples overlooking key details until the last minute. Then there is literally no time to spare, sending you into a total panic. The remedy? Building The Perfect Wedding Day Timeline.
As a seasoned wedding photographer, I’ve seen how a thoughtfully planned wedding timeline can ensure smooth sailing for the entire day, even for the more anxiety-ridden of us.
More ease, more joy, and more time to soak in every beautiful moment. I want all of that and more for you! So let’s break down the biggest mistakes couples make when making their wedding timeline (and how to avoid them) so your day flows along as stress-free as possible.
1. Not Scheduling Buffer Time
One of the biggest wedding nightmares couples share? Feeling rushed. Your Big Day will go by faster than you realize. And when there’s not enough time planned between important sections of your day, it can lead to stress and hurried (or completely missed) moments.
Timeline Tip: Break-up your Formal Portraits by having a First Look prior to the ceremony. Not only does this give you a moment alone with your partner, but allows portraits to be taken care of early. This plan provides extra wiggle room post-ceremony, where you might even get to enjoy Cocktail Hour yourself!
2. Not Allowing Enough Time for Portraits
Weddings rarely run exactly on schedule — and that’s totally normal and should be anticipated. But without built-in buffer time, even small delays can create a domino effect. You don’t want to miss your Newlywed Sunset Portraits all because ‘Cousin Jim’ sneaked off to the bar right before family photos, right?
Timeline Tip: Add at least 10–15 minute cushions between key events like getting ready, the ceremony, and family photos. A little flexibility goes a long way in keeping the day calm and joyful. Plus allows you to grab a snack or take a bathroom break! That breathing room makes a huge difference – you’ll feel more relaxed, and your photos will reflect that.
3. Forgetting About Natural Light
Once the ceremony’s over, the guest will be enjoying cocktail hour. And we have a very limited amount of time to get the majority of all Portraits done. If you’re dreaming of those golden-hour portraits, timing is *everything*. So often photographers are at the mercy of nature’s whim, so we only have one chance to get it right! The last hour before sunset offers the most flattering natural light. But if your ceremony runs late or portraits are pushed too far back, that dreamy glow disappears.
Timeline Tip: Look up your wedding date’s sunset time and build your timeline around it. Once booked, I’m more than happy to help find the sweet spot for perfect lighting on your big day!
4. Thinking the Timeline is Just a Checklist
A great timeline isn’t just a list, it’s the game plan for a day. This allows your vendor team to be ahead of the curve. Ensuring the details are taken care of on-time and flawless. When your Vendor Team is prepared, you have the chance to be hands-off come Wedding Day. That way, you’re not left worrying about what comes next – you’re actually living every moment. That’s the real magic.
Timeline Tip: Having the right vendors behind you will guarantee that your Wedding Vision has every chance to flourish and thrive. Hiring a Wedding Planner or Coordinator is helpful!
>>> Let’s Build a Wedding Timeline That Works for You
Of course every day is different, and your timeline should reflect what is uniquely important to YOU. When booking with RCC, I’ll help create a personalized plan that allows space for all the laughter, love, and in-between moments you’ll want to remember forever.
Have questions? Reach out! I’d love to help make your day as stress-free as possible. It all starts with a balanced Wedding Timeline.
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