Why you need a wedding timeline. Seriously!

Ahhhhh, your wedding day. It’s likely to be the most special day of your life – and also the fastest. Many couples say their weddings were a blur, which made the photos taken that day especially meaningful. 

As your wedding nears and you finalize plans, it’s important to factor in enough time for photography. We can help you create a timeline that ensures every single amazing moment of your wedding is captured, so that years from now you can look back at all of the beauty and wonder of the day – even if you don’t really remember eating at the reception. 

Here’s an idea of a timeline that might help. We’ll be with you all along the way. 

1.5-2 hours for brides

Trust us: It takes a lot longer to put on a wedding dress than you think. Add in final touches to hair and makeup plus laughing and enjoying champagne with your bridesmaids – and an hour and a half will fly by. You’ll need enough time to capture all the candid moments as well as photos of you on your own and pretty shots with your friends and family.  

 1-1.5 hours for grooms

Yeah, yeah. Guys get ready fast. But how about a group of guys hanging out together? You should allow the groom and his groomsmen time to get dressed, shave and do fun stuff together: video games, board games or golf, for example. 

 15 minutes: Dad moment

Your dad is going to feel some pretty big emotions when he prepares to walk you down the aisle. Give yourselves about 15 minutes beforehand so we can photograph that special and loving time that only the two of you will share. 

30 Minutes: First look

This is a hugely tender and private exchange to celebrate your love for one another. We recommend at least 30 minutes to set up the location, take photos of your and your groom or bride seeing each other for the first time. You guys are about to embark on a big incredible journey together. 

30 Minutes: Family formals

Weddings are as much about family as they are about the couple being wed. We suggest a half hour to bring your families together for formal photos with you and your beloved. It can take time to round up everyone on a crazy day! We often shoot both the couples' families at once to make the most of the time. 

30 Minutes: Prep before the ceremony, with no shooting     

Relax, get some food, chill, and get ready for the ceremony. Take these moments to breathe. Things are about to get crazy. (in a good way!)

30 Minutes -1 Hour: Ceremony

Need we say more? This is IT. Talk with your officiant to set the best amount of time and then share your plans with us, so we can shoot you walking down the aisle, exchanging vows and, of course, that first kiss as a married couple. 

15 to 20 Minutes: Greeting guests

A lot of people will be there to celebrate with you! Your guests are thrilled to be there, and we will take the time after the ceremony to capture their joy along with yours. 

1-2 Hours: Wedding party photos and party bus stops

Let the fun begin! You guys made it through the hard part. It’s time to kick back with your friends and family. Have a drink! YOU DID IT. An hour or two gives us a great opportunity to take photos of you and the wedding party getting the night off to a great start. 

 45 Minutes to 1 Hour: Dinner   

We’ll shoot photos of everyone dining, catching up and getting to know each other if they haven’t met before. And we can’t forget the toasts – best man, maid of honor and anyone else who wants to say a few words to celebrate your love and friendship.  (Pro Trip. Don't forget to plan for your photographers to eat dinner with you and your guests. They have been working hard)

30 Minutes: Special dances

You and your new husband or wife will never forget the Father-Daughter dance, Mother-Son dance and your first dance as a married couple. We also can shoot a grand entrance – it gives the first dance some extra special meaning and impact. This also is a good time to cut the cake! 

30 Min - 1.5 Hours: Open dances

More party photos and video! Whether your Aunt Edna is doing the chicken dance, or you and your sisters are paying homage to Michael Jackson’s “Beat It,” we’ll be there all night to create memories you will cherish forever. 

There you have it. Give us a call at Morrissey Photography to talk about a wedding timeline and more. 

Your wedding is going to be fabulous. It’s a reflection of your love – and your personality. We believe your wedding photo collection should reflect those two important and wonderful things. 

Talk soon.