One of the most common wedding ceremony start times in the UK & Ireland is 1pm, so we’ll kick off with that. If you’re having a 12pm or 2pm ceremony, move this schedule back or forward by an hour respectively.
8am
Breakfast and shower
Try to eat something, especially if you’re going to be enjoying a glass of champagne as you get ready.
9am
Hair and make-up
The bridesmaids and/or mother of the bride should always go first, followed by the bride.
10 am
Bouquets arrive
Suppliers begin set-up at your venue. 10am generally works for a 1pm start.
11 am
Get dressed
The bridesmaids, mother of the bride and any other members of your wedding party who are with you should all be dressed by this point, so they can help you get into your outfit and be in the background of your ‘getting ready’ shots.
12 PM
wedding party photos
Now is the time for more formal photos with your wedding party. Consider a small snack.
12:30 pm
guests arrive at the venue
Your partner should be there to greet friends and family as they arrive
12:45 pm
Depart to the venue
Depart for venue with the members of your wedding party. Remember to allow time for traffic if you’re getting there via car!
1 pm
Ceremony
breathe… don’t forget to ask someone (if I don't) to fluff your dress if you're wearing one in order to have it looking picture perfect as you walk down the aisle.
1:30 pm
confetti shots
Maximise the drama for your confetti shots by waiting in another room after the ceremony while I prepare your guests. This is also a great opportunity to grab that big group photo while everyone’s still together!
2 pm
Reception drinks & canapés
Whether you have champagne, beers, or a specially designed wedding cocktail, ensure there’s a non-alcoholic alternative too.
If you want group / family portraits , send me your photo list and nominate someone who knows everyone to help round them up!
2:30 pm
photos with the wedding party
If you want group shots, send me your photo list and nominate someone who knows everyone to help round them up!
4 pm
main course served
Dinner timing depends on what you’re serving, buffets are quicker (20–30 mins per 100 guests), while plated meals need around 40–45 mins per course.
5:30 pm
Speeches
There’s no rule for speech timing, but if anyone’s nervous, earlier is better. Before the main course is even better, get them done and out the way so everyone can relax and enjoy their meal.
6 pm
Dessert
As dinner is wrapping up, the speeches/toasts should be too.
6:30 pm
Cutting the cake
Another great photo opportunity. You may also want to sneak away for some additional ‘golden hour’ portrait shots
7:30 pm
First dance
If you choose to, this will be your first dance as newlyweds to your favourite song. After the dance, it’s traditional for the couple’s parents to join them on the dance floor, then other guests will follow.
8 pm
open dance floor
Enjoy the party – it’s time to celebrate!
10 pm
Couple depart
Time to say your goodbyes and head off into your happily ever after – and trust me, it always takes longer than you expect! If you’re planning a fun exit (like sparklers or something extra), make sure it’s all prepped ahead of time and ask someone from the wedding party (or your coordinator) to hand everything out and get everyone organised for the exit shots!
