Planning your wedding day timeline is one of the simplest ways to reduce stress and protect the moments that matter. Below is a photographer’s-eye view—tailored to the Pacific Northwest—covering smart questions to ask, seasonal timing, a full-day (8–10 hour) flow, must-have photos, and buffer tips. I’m old-school and always print the final schedule and the photo list—highly recommended.
Build Your Wedding Day Timeline: The Essential Questionnaire
Use these prompts to shape a first draft before your planner finalizes minute-by-minute logistics:
- Will you do a first look?
- What time will your ceremony start (Fri/Sat vs. Sun/weekday)?
- What is sunset time for your date and location?
- Will all events happen at one venue, or multiple? Including getting ready.
- How many guests are invited, and how many do you expect?
- How long is your family photo list?
- What reception traditions matter to you?
- Do you want golden-hour portraits?
- Will you plan a send-off or staged exit?
- Will a planner or coordinator manage logistics?
PNW Seasons & Light
Summer
Late sunsets (around 9 PM in June) allow for later ceremonies and dreamy golden-hour portraits like the wedding at Abbey Road Farm and a private home.
Fall
Earlier sunsets and possible showers—consider earlier ceremonies and covered portrait locations like the wedding at Oregon Golf Club and Abernethy Center.
Winter
Short daylight hours—plan early ceremonies or a first look to fit in portraits such as Red Barn Studios in Washington, Adrianna Hill Grand Ballroom in Portland, River Bell Farm, and Green Villa Barn.
Spring
Unpredictable rain—have umbrellas, a covered Plan B, and time buffers like these weddings at The Aerie at Eagle Landing and Langdon Farms.
Sample Full-Day Wedding Day Timeline (8–10 Hours)
Example: one venue, first look, 5:00 PM ceremony.
- 12:30 PM — Photographer arrives (details, candids)
- 2:15 PM — First look and couple portraits
- 3:15 PM — Wedding party photos
- 3:45 PM — Family formals
- 4:30 PM — Pre-ceremony buffer
- 5:00 PM — Ceremony
- 5:30 PM — Cocktail hour
- 6:30 PM — Reception begins
- 7:45 PM — Golden-hour portraits
- 8:15 PM — Dance floor opens
- 9:00–10:30 PM — Exit or night portraits
Check out these sample wedding day timelines from real weddings including first look and family photo list
Just remember, timeline may change even on the day of the wedding. No biggy! All your vendors will adjust when needed. Always be flexible. Things will always will work out.
Buffer Strategy in your Wedding Day Timeline
- Add 5–15 minutes to key transitions.
- Pad travel time for multiple locations.
- Use buffers to adjust for weather or crowds.
Must-Have Photos
- Details & getting ready
- First look or private vow
- Wedding party
- Family formals
- Ceremony moments
- Couple portraits
- Reception details and traditions
- Candid dance floor energy
- Exit or creative night shot
Guest Count Reality Check
On average, about 80% of invited guests attend non-destination weddings. More guests may lengthen transitions and group-photo time.
Photographer–Planner Synergy
Your planner manages logistics; I manage photo-first flow (light, buffers). I also bring printed copies of the timeline and photo list so we can check items off in real time.
Ready for a Stress-Free Wedding Day Timeline?
When you book photography with me, your custom wedding day timeline is included. Download my Wedding Day Checklist to start planning, or book your consultation today.
