Wedding Timeline

You're Engaged!

You certainly want to enjoy this wonderful and magical time in your life but you know that planning your own wedding is going to be a big job! The following checklists might make it a little easier for you to keep it simple, keep it organized and keep you sane!

The 12-Month Countdown

6-12 Months Before Your Wedding...

The wedding date has been set and now like any large project, it's a good idea to step back and take a look at the big picture first, then break it down to the finer details later.

The Big Picture: Who, What, Where and How

a Decide who will pay for what, where you'll get married and how expenses will be shared

a Talk to friends, family, bridal consultants or wedding coordinators to get the direction you need for starting an organization system

a For most couples, the wedding day can be a blur, so decide early on the best way to capture your special day's cherished memories - like with an Adesso Photo Guest Book.

The Details

Once you have your organization system in place, start going down your to-do detail list. Here are a few of the critical ones:

a Call your church or synagogue for an appointment with the Officiate
a Explore pre-marriage counseling
a Decide on what size wedding you want
a Consider and decide on wedding attendants
a Start a guest list for the wedding
a Begin determining ideas/themes/color schemes for your wedding and reception
a Select a reception location and a caterer if need be
a Consider reception entertainment
a Select a florist
a Together, shop for wedding rings
a Select a wedding dress, headpiece and schedule fittings
a Decide on the bridesmaids' dresses

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
wedding timeline?
ok i need a little advice for those of you that have been through this =) Im gettin gmarried on June 1st. The reception is form 7-12 a.m. so its an evening wedding im asuming 6 would be a good time for the ceremony to start. How long does a christian wedding usually last? Also whats the best time line for my schedule the day of. When should i get my hiar done make-up arrive at the church and should all the girls go together? All that stuff.
- ANSWER:
  You should start the ceremony at 5:30 at least give yourself and your husband-to-be a good hour so you can take pictures after the ceremony.
  Also, give the guests time to get there if the reception isn't in the same place as the ceremony.
  The Pastor who is officiating my wedding told me if we have our ceremony at 2pm we will be done by 3:30-4pm...it all depends if you start on time, you have anyone singing at the ceremony, etc...so give it at least 1 hour or 1 1/2 hours.
  
  If you need any further help with anything go to www.theknot.com or www.brides.com or www.perfectweddingguide.com
  they usually have timelines from 9-12 months before the wedding to the day of the wedding.
  
  Usually, from what I've been told, you get ready with your bridesmaids, as they help you with your dress and your maid of honor learns what to do for when the reception starts if your dress has a train, and she carries a little kit with her in case you need last minute sewing (you never know something might rip whatever) or breath mints...you know..
  and plus it tends to be a lot funner!
  Pictures of when brides are getting ready are soo nice to see. )
  
  Hope this helped.
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline?
We got engaged about a month ago. We set a date and reserved a venue. The wedding isn't till November. Several people have already asked us where we are registered. We haven't registered yet. When should we? The wedding is in about 9 months. Is that too soon? How many places should we register at? I'm thinking JCPenney, Wal-Mart, and Target. Is that too many? Also, is sending invitations out 3 months before the wedding appropriate or too soon? Thanks.
- ANSWER:
  For a large wedding, the invitations should be sent at least six to eight weeks in advance. Obviously, the earlier they are sent the better it is for the guests, since they will have time to plan. If weekend activities surround the wedding, it is important to get the word out before the formal invitations. if a weekend wedding, especially during a holiday period is planner, a "Save the Date" card is helpful. These cards are common and can include lots of information directing the guest to the couple's website and providing travel and hotel information. This is a good way to get out information on where the couple is registered and could be turned into a wedding newsletter or website. If some of your guests are coming from out of town you should make sure that the places that you pick to register are available in their areas. However, I would not suggest registering at more than one place.
QUESTION:
Wedding Timeline?
We have decided to have a morning wedding which will be starting at ten am, what would be a reasonable time line,?
we are having a simple ceromony, and then having more buffet type thing then and actual sit down meal
an actual sit down meal*
- ANSWER:
  Arrive at church by 9/9:30 a.m.
  ceremony 10 a.m.
  Receiving line 10:30 (ask your officiant exactly how long the ceremony will last)
  pictures 10:30-11
  Cocktail hour 10:30 or 11- 12 p.m.
  Reception 12-4
  Good luck! I hope you have a wonderful wedding. Congrats!
QUESTION:
What should an hors d'oeuvres wedding reception timeline look like?
We're having a short wedding...the ceremony is 3:00-3:30pm, and we want the reception to end by 6pm since we're not serving a full dinner. We are going to have hors d'oeuvres, and we definitely want to include cake cutting, first dances and toasts. Does anyone have a good idea for a timeline? Let people start eating right away? When we get done taking pictures should we do the dances first so that people know they can dance?
- ANSWER:
  Usually a cocktail/hors d'oeuvres reception last for 2-3 hours. Here is a simplified timeline:
  
  First half hour
  1. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres passed around on trays
  (This may be the time that you are still taking photos)
  2. Light cocktail music
  
  Second half hour -
  (Bride and Groom enter)
  1. Introductions and toasts.
  2. First Dance
  3. Have person with mic mention that there are hors d'oeuvres stationed on a table and welcome everyone to dance.
  4. More drinking, eating and dancing.
  
  Second hour -
  1. Cake cutting
  2. More dancing, eating and drinking
  3. Thank everyone for coming and mention you will have more drinks, hors d'oeuvres and dancing for the next X minutes.
  
  Hope this helps!
QUESTION:
What is a normal wedding reception timeline?
I was wondering how the events of the wedding reception usually take place. I am trying to plan everything out for the DJ, catering manager, etc. Anyone know of a site with a good checklist? Thanks for your help!
- ANSWER:
  Well the guests arrive before you because you'll be doing pictures at the church. So try to have some appetizers and soft music for the guests when they arrive. When you get there you should be introduced to the guests, then go sit down. Dinner will be served, speeches will be made, and you should cut the cake before the dancing starts so everyone will be there to watch, and then people can have dessert whenever they want. Then the first dance, bridal party dance, daddy daughter dance, and then everyone dances. The DJ should be experienced enough to know when to do things like the hokey pokey and the garter/bouquet throw.
  
  Try theknot.com, they have everything!
  
  Congratulations!
QUESTION:
How does the wedding timeline go?
I feel really dumb but I'm getting married next weekend and am unsure about timeline etiquette.
Does the bride greet guests (and if so, wearing what?) or is she behind-the scenes getting ready and hidden from view? After the ceremony, how much time should the husband/wife take together before meeting guests at the reception hall? Should music play during the meal or only during the dancing times? Thank you.
- ANSWER:
  traditionally, before the ceremony the bride is "getting ready" and hidden from the guest so that she makes a grand entrance when its her time ot walk down the aisle. usually immediatley after you walk back down the aisle after you and your new hubby have kissed the bride groom and parents of each side form a recieving line where they greet all the guests. you should take the whole cocktail hour of your wedding to take some time with your hubby and bridal party for pictures and such. and musuic usually plays during the whole reception and its usually light music during dinner!
  hope that helps!!
  congratulations!
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline GAP From the Church to reception?
Hi I have a big problem the only time I was able to get the ceremony at is at 1:00 and the ceremony will be 40 mins. at the church. So I wont start the reception until 5:30. What do I tell my guest to do while there is such a big gap of time? I know that the bridal party will be taking pictures but I don't want to leave my guest's wondering around the town since the reception hall is 10 mins from the church?
- ANSWER:
  You're roughly talking about a 2 hour time frame.This happens often. If your guests live in the area, they can go home inbetween.
  I'm not sure how many guests you're having. If guests are from out of town, ask one or more of your local family or friends to have them back to their homes. They might have a small snack, nothing fancy.
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline estimate for day of?
I just need an estimate of times. I have my hair appt at 9. Wedding is at 2. We are doing pictures beforehand. The wedding will be 30 min from where I'm getting my hair done. Anyone have a 2 o'clock wedding? Or could guess on times?
- ANSWER:
  I would be dressed and ready at the wedding site by no later that 12pm for the pictures. Talk to you photographer and ask how long he wants before the wedding and go from there. Give yourself 30 minutes before the wedding starts to relax and take in the moment.
QUESTION:
Where can I find a detailed timeline for a wedding and reception?
I am planning and orchestrating my wedding without a "wedding planner", to save money. I am having the wedding and reception at the same place and need to know how to time everything so that it isn't confusing or unorganized to guests. I have enlisted a friend to act as a coordinator the day of the wedding....
- ANSWER:
  if you have hired a DJ (s)he should have a few examples from previous weddings.
  
  here is a timeline from the last wedding i did:
  
  5pm guests arrive
  5:30pm ceremony begins
  -groom and officiant take their place
  -seating of the mothers
  -bridal party enters
  -bride escorted by father
  -welcome words from officant
  -service
  -lighting of candles
  -vows/rings
  -pronouncement
  -bride and groom exit followed by party and guests
  
  6:20- 6:730 guests arrive at the ceremony location/ cocktail hour
  6:20-7:30pm photos for B&G and bridal party
  7:30pm bridal party is announced by the DJ
  7:35pm Bride and Groom are announced for the 1st time- head straight to the dance floor for 1st dance
  7:45 Bride and Groom are seated
  -best man and maid of honour toasts
  -any misc. toasts from family/guests
  
  7:55pm Bride and Groom get their dinner
  8:00pm dinner buffet open to guests
  8-8:45 classy music for dining
  8:45 start music for dancing
  9pm money dance
  9:30 cut cake
  9:45 bouquet toss
  10pm garter toss
  dancing
  11pm last song.
  
  Hope this helps you start a timeline.
  Best wishes
QUESTION:
what is the perfect wedding timeline? How much time is needed to prepare for a wedding?
Thanks:)
- ANSWER:
  it really depends on how big or small the wedding would be.
  i think between 4 & 6 months good luck.
QUESTION:
Help with a wedding day timeline?
I am one of those people who like to plan WAY ahead...so I am already thinking about a timeline for my wedding day (September 19th)
& I would like to make 2 different timelines...one for girls & one for guys of the wedding party. I would like to include a seperate luncheon for the girls & guys...hair, makeup, getting ready, pictures, etc.

The wedding starts at 5:00 sharp.

Any advice/help/suggestions? Thanks!
By the way...I'm not a "bridezilla" I just know how unorganized my fiance and his party can be sometimes. He leaves the planning and organizing to me. I'm not telling him what he has to do...just when to be the places that he needs to be.
& I want there to be seperate luncheons because I don't want him to see me at ALL before the wedding...make sense?

Thanks to those who have helped!
- ANSWER:
  This isn't exactly what you're looking for but you can alter it to suit your needs. When I was directing weddings I would give these to the wedding party at the rehearsal so there wouldn't be any "I didn't know I was supposed to do that then/be there then etc...
  It's great to have a plan but just remember that things come up so make sure you can go with the flow if an accident or something comes up unexpectedly and messes with your plan!
  
  Wedding Day Timeline
  
  _____ Bride and her attendants arrive at church
  _____ Groom and his attendants arrive at church
  _____ Grandparents & special guests have arrived and are in room
  _____ Music begins
  _____ Ushers are dressed and ready to light candles/escort guests
  _____ Soloist is in place
  _____ Bride and attendants are dressed and ready
  _____ Groom & best man are in pastors office
  _____ Bridal party is in hall ready to process down the aisle
  _____ Grandparents/special guests are seated
  _____ Mother of the groom is seated
  _____ Mother of the bride is seated
  _____ Soloist sings
  _____ Pastor/Groom/Best man enter
  _____ Bridal party enters
QUESTION:
Where is a good online checklist and timeline for planning a wedding?
I need to find a really good checklist and timeline as I'm getting married end of next year but I can't find one that I like. Does anyone know of one that was helpful for them? Thanks so much!
- ANSWER:
  Are you Australian? http://www.easyweddings.com.au has a great checklist that is broken down into dates leading up to your wedding so you know what you should be doing when. I love it. I think it's better to find a checklist in your own country as sometimes there are traditions you might do in America that we don't do in Australia.
QUESTION:
Wedding planning timeline?
I've searched all over google, but all I can find are timelines for planning a wedding 12 months in advance. I need to find something for 8 months

Can anyone tell me a good timeline for planning a wedding in 8 months?
- ANSWER:
  There is an excellent article on ehow that gives you step by step instructions for planning a wedding in 8 months. You can start there and work with some of the checklists that they offer as well.
QUESTION:
what is a good wedding timeline if it starts at 6:00pm?
i'm in talks with the wait staff i'm going to hire but he's asking me what time do i want the dinner serve and cake serve. what's a good time with 5:30 to about 6:30pm being a cocktail hour.
thanks in advance
- ANSWER:
  The best way to plan any event is to "back off" from the end time. Some of your guests want to leave at 9PM (face it, it's true. Young parents and old fogeys want to be home by 10).
  So by about 8PM the cake must be cut so that dessert can be served. Now you're at 8PM for the cake-cutting. The meal must be over - so it must be served before 7:30.
  ETC
  I don't think your staff sounds very experienced if he's not asking what time you want things to be over.
QUESTION:
What is the timeline of dinner at a wedding reception?
How long does it take, from start to end? Reason being, I'm planning my wedding w/astrology and might not have the ceremony until 6 pm. Am worried there won't be enough time for everything. What time does the dancing usually start?
- ANSWER:
  I would do the cermony at 4, people will be starving by 7. Ceremonies usually last 30 min to an hour and then dinner, and then dancing.
QUESTION:
Can someone tell me what exactly the timeline is to plan a wedding?
I'm helping my friend plan a wedding. I was so thrilled she told me she was engaged now, esp. to the perfect man. I just like to know when to plan what in a timeline format. Please?
- ANSWER:
  9-12 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY:
  
  Be organized! Get yourself a planner to keep track of all your wedding details.
  
  Decide on style of your wedding,i.e.formal, informal, approximate amount of guests.
  
  Decide on approximate budget and who pays for what. Traditionally, wedding expenses are taken care of by the bride’s family while the groom’s takes care of the rings, the rehearsal dinner and the honeymoon. But remember, this is the 90’s, so anything goes. Be clear as to who’s willing to pay for what and how much.
  
  Decide on what religion (if any) pertains to your wedding ceremony.
  
  Make an appointment with the Officiant. Reserve ceremony site. Find out requirements . Make future appointments to plan music and discuss ceremony.
  
  Choose reception site
  
  Select a wedding date. Try to do this in conjunction with your cermony and recepton site selections.
  
  Select wedding attendants, best man, maid of honor etc.
  
  Secure a Caterer for your reception if your site does not come with one.
  
  Think about color schemes for florists church,reception and attire.
  
  Select Photographer
  
  Select Videographer
  
  Select Florist
  
  Select Musicians
  
  Discuss Honeymoon locations. Visit your travel agent. Get brochures.
  
  Start shopping for wedding dress and bridesmaid’s dresses.
  
  6-9 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Select wedding dress. Set dates for fittings.
  
  Select Bridesmaids’ dresses.
  
  Start working on guest lists: Bride’s family, Groom’s family, the Bride & Groom’s list.
  
  4-6 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Book your Honeymoon.
  
  Order your invitations,thank you cards, napkins and guest book.
  
  Order gifts & favors.
  
  Choose your music selections for your ceremony.
  
  Order wedding rings.
  
  Register with Bridal Gift Registry at your favorite stores.
  
  Plan your new home. Where are you going to live. Shop for furnishings.
  
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  Select and reserve your Limousine service.
  
  Shop for Men’s attire.
  
  Confirm dates and arrangements:
  
  Select bakery and order wedding cake (if not offered in reception package)
  
  Reception site
  
  Caterers (off site)
  
  Florists
  
  Honeymoon
  
  Transportation arrangements
  
  Musicians for ceremony & reception
  
  Delivery date of wedding dress
  
  Photographer
  
  Videographer
  
  Ceremony site arrangements
  
  2 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Mail invitations.
  
  Arrange for blood test if required in your state.
  
  Marriage License
  
  Plan date for rehearsal dinner. Select restaurant.
  
  Confirm date for wedding cake (if applicable)
  
  If possible make an appointment with a beauty professional for you and your bridesmaids on your wedding day.
  
  ONE MONTH BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Pick up wedding rings.
  
  Final fittings for men’s attire. Confirm date pick-up time.
  
  Plan Bachelor and Bachelorette party. *Caution: Avoid picking the night before your wedding. It’ll get you in trouble every time.
  
  Make Hotel reservations for out-of-town guests.
  
  Select wedding day accessories, (pillow,rings,garter)
  
  Plan on getting documents i.e, legal, religious, medical in order.
  
  Make appointment for ceremony rehearsal.
  
  Assign attendant responsibilities i.e, tips and balance payments on day of wedding for musicians, limousines, photographer/videographer,DJ,musicians, Maitre D,bridal attendant,caterers etc.
  
  TWO WEEKS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Finalize arrangements with EVERYONE. Review details of your contracts.
  
  Finalize and review music selections for ceremony and reception.
  
  Start planning what to wear on your honeymoon. Review with travel agents all necessary documents.
  
  Get marriage lisence.
  
  ONE WEEK BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY
  
  Wedding ceremony rehearsal
  
  Rehearsal dinner
  
  Pack your bags. Don’t wait until the last minute.
  
  Go to a spa and pamper yourself and your bridesmaids.
  
  Guys, chill with your homeboys. It won’t last much longer.
  
  Present gifts to bridesmaids and ushers at the bachelor and bachelorette parties.
  
  Remind attendants about ceremony rehearsal day and time.
  
  Party!
  
  WEDDING DAY
  
  Breathe
  
  Give yourself plenty of time to get ready,at least 3 hours ahead of time.
  
  Breathe
  
  Don’t forget the rings and marriage lisence.
  
  Breathe
  
  Best man should have payment for officiant.
  
  Allow time for photos (if you’ve arranged this with your photographer & videographer)
  
  Breathe
  
  Most of all, have fun!
QUESTION:
Daytime Wedding Timeline?
Our cermony is at 11AM we are not doing dancing. I need a good timeline since we are not have a DJ/Band. My Maid of Honor is going to keep the show rolling per say. I need ideas of what order things should go and suggestions of what I could do to keep it fun and interesting.

Thank you,

Wedding in June/ Reception at a Resturant in Banquet Room
- ANSWER:
  600ish 700ish rise and shine
  be ready by 10.30ish
  arrive at the ceromony at about 11.15ish
  Finish up the ceromony and leave for photos at 12ish
  while you are taking photos guests can have pre reception drinks, its to early for alcohol in my opinion so just softdrinks kinda thing
  Arrive at the reception at about 1ish
  greet talk mingle recieving line (whatever really) for about half an hour
  at 1 30ish start the food buffet or sit down
  then food will finish at when ever
  speeches can be before or after food
  normally with weddings people are just happy to mingle and talk with relatives friends ect,
QUESTION:
Wedding Day Timeline?
i was wondering if someone had like a hour by hour breakdown of their wedding day on like a timeline that I could look at just to give me an idea for mine to make sure i'm not forgetting anything, or even like a timeline for the actually wedding day. places like theknot and such don't really give me to much regarding this area. i would really appreciate it if someone was willing to share their personnel wedding timeline with me
- ANSWER:
  Ceremony: 4:30pm - 5:00pm
  Pictures : 5:15pm - 6:15pm (can run a little late with this one if needed)
  Reception:
  - Cocktails 6pm ( people have a little time to mingle at church, go change etc. from ceremony and you aren't expected until after cocktails have started)
  - Dinner 7pm
  - Speeches 8pm (plan how many people you think will give a speech and alot about 3 - 4 min each before scheduleing the next event)
  - Cake Cutting 8:30pm
  - Bride & Groom dance 8:45pm
  - Father/Daughter dance immediatly following
  - Boquet/Garter toss 10pm
QUESTION:
Question about wedding timeline?
I have almost 9 months to go until my wedding on Mothers Day (May 13th 2012) what else should I have done by now? I have the hall booked, photo/video/DJ/flowers, my dress and bridesmaids dresses, and cake ordered. I'm getting my save the dates this week. What is a MUST by now?
I am getting married in church, not the hall, but that's already booked too!
- ANSWER:
  I'm assuming you've decided to get married in the hall. If not, then get the church booked, too.
  You're ahead of schedule. I had less than 7 months and was able to get everything done in that amount of time.
  I don't think anything else is a MUST. You're doing fine.
QUESTION:
What was the timeline of your wedding?
We're trying to figure out how we're doing everything. We're planning on getting married at about 6pm (it's a friday wedding) and he refuses to see me before the wedding (which is fine). So we're trying to figure out our timing, and I was curious as to where everyone else's fit... We are having a 6 hour reception.
Ann's answer is exactly what I'm looking for. Anyone else?
Cindy - I LOVE that you gave yourself a half hour to freak out!
- ANSWER:
  here was my timeline (i got married last month)
  4pm wedding
  
  730am-8am - shower
  830-930 - hair appt
  10 - got to my moms house where i was getting ready. had some breakfast, glass a champagne, etc.Relaxed.
  11am - makeup.
  12 - had some more food....lol
  1230 - started getting dressed
  1 - photographers came to the house, bridesmaids came over and we started photos with family and the bridesmaids
  2 - limo came - grabbed all our last minute stuff we needed, honeymoon bag etc.....
  by 230 we were in the limo driving to downtown LA (45 min- 1 hr drive)
  got there at around 325pm - then i sat in the limo until my fiancee hid so he couldnt see me get out of the limo, lol
  330 - went into the bridal room in the church and did last minute touch ups, did some breathing techniques my friend taught me, lol.....i cried a little....it all just seem to hit me in that last 30 minutes before i was about to walk down the aisle. But im glad i had that time to calm down....
  4 - i walked down the aisle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  
  ceremony was from 4-445...then the bridal party and family took pics in the church for about 20 minutes...then we hopped back into the limos, and went to another spot for pictures....we were there for about 30 minutes....then drove to the reception (about 15 min away). During this whole time we had cocktail hour going on at the recpetion area for all the guests. When we arrived it was about 615pm, then everyone went into the hall, got seated and the bridal party was introduced. We did first dances, etc then. Speeches, dinner, then dancing.
  
  Give yourself enough time in the day to get ready. You dont want to be rushing and stressing out on your wedding day!
QUESTION:
If my Wedding Reception is from 5pm to 12midnight, how should I organize the Timeline?
I don't know if I should have a Cocktail Hour or just start with the Dinner. We are going to have a DJ & Band plus Mariachis at the Wedding. I also don't know when to do our first dance. Any advise will be greatly appreciated.
- ANSWER:
  Bride & Groom’s Entrance to be announced?
  
  Bridal Party Introduction
  
  prayer for diner
  
  the bride and groom get served first this is done so as soon as the bride and groom get done eating they go and greet the guests wile they are still eating ., depending on the amount of guests this should take about 30 to 45 min
  
  then you do the first dance for the bride and groom
  
  Father/Daughter Dance
  
  Mother/Son Dance
  
  Bridal Party Dance
  
  Money Dance
  
  Cake Cutting Time
  
  Garter/Bouquet Toss
  
  the toast you can put in at any time through out the time line of the reception
  
  then you just start the pary and have a good time for the rest of the night
  
  beleave it or not this doesn'tt take that long to get through . I learnd that if you want your guest to stay for all the festive things do the cake and the Garter/Bouquet Toss last . i have never had any problems doing things this way .
  
  Things to remember , Keep in mind the guests that will be coming to your reception , not every one has the same taste in music , so when you think of some thing you do not want played your guests probably will . The best thing to do is keep a open floor for requests
  
  if you email me i will send you my Wedding Profile
  hope this helps
  
  zippo00772002@yahoo.com
  Jon's All Occasion DJing
QUESTION:
Wedding Day Timeline Example?
could someone give me an example of a typical wedding timeline?
for our renewal ceremony/reception .. basically its a wedding, but by december when this wedding goes on we'll have been married in either LV or at the court house [for legal reasons and conflicts with the K-1 visa, so i have legit reasons, not that i really need to explain]

we were thinking of doing a later ceremony and then followed by a reception that lasts pretty long.

ceremony probaly around 2:30-3:30ish? and however long in between that to have the photoshoot/cocktail party for the quests then the reception

what would a typical wedding day look like [timeline wise]
what happens during the reception and around what time usually? just trying to get some ideas

we're really trying to work around our guests since they'll all be traveling to this wedding, from overseas, canada and out-of-state. whats the point of having a celebration of our marriage with these people if people arent going to enjoy themselves and have a fun time?

thanks so much!
ella

*i know im asking for alot in this question, but it would be really appreciated!

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Continue...
- ANSWER:
  Oh my gosh, that is so sweet. I am in the same position as you are (with the Visa and the renewal and all), but we are traveling to my family, so that we are the ones going overseas.
  
  Anyway, first of all you need to know that you can do whatever you want on your wedding day. No need to follow any guidelines. Be creative and individual, so that your guests know it's you!
  
  Usually, first comes the ceremony. In the morning you will have time for touch ups, make up, hair etc., then enjoy the ceremony in the afternoon.
  Many people have the photo shoot right afterwards, while the guests travel to the reception site (if necessary). Here they can be greeted with some champaign maybe?
  You arrive at the reception site last.
  Dinner or food of choice follows.
  The bride and groom's first dance (The part I'm most looking forward too!)
  Toast and Cake Cutting
  Dance, Entertainments.
  Here you can put whatever you want: Bouquet throw, dancing, some people even do karaoke!
  Bride and Groom are the first to leave the reception and you are off to your honey moon.
  
  Don't forget that you can incorporate traditions from your home, as well! That often mixes it up a lot.
  
  All the best and I hope I helped
QUESTION:
3 hour wedding and reception timeline?
My wedding ceremony and reception are going to be in the same room and I cannot come up with a timeline! The wedding is going to start at 2 and the reception is going to end at 5.
Anyone have any ideas of a good timeline to use?
The reason it's going to be so short is that we are not serving a meal. Just finger foods.
- ANSWER:
  Start the ceremony at 2pm sharp end by 2:30pm, first dance at 2:35pm, lunch at 3pm, toasts start at 3:15pm and end to cut the cake at 3:30pm, bouquet/garter toss at 4pm and then dancing for the rest of the reception. *Do pictures before the ceremony*
QUESTION:
If I have 6 months to plan a wedding, what would the timeline be like? What do I have to do first?
Please spell out exactly which things need to be done 6 months before, 5 months before, etc. I am clueless!!!
- ANSWER:
  Congratulations! Only six months? Wow!
  
  Here's how I'd do it:
  
  [6 months before]
  -Get a venue first and foremost. No sense in celebrating if you don't have a place to celebrate. Venues are grabbed up quickly by crazy planning brides who reserve 2 years in advance! This should be done as soon as possible (6 months before).
  -Get get the place for the wedding ceremony (ex. church, temple, country club, etc.). Once again those crazy planning brides are snatching up those dates. This should be done as soon as poosible (6 months before).
  (You may also have to go to wedding classes or wedding counseling depending on the requirements of your religion or community).
  -Have an engagement party to ask your friends if they are willing to be a part of your wedding.
  -The wedding dress will determine what type of decoration for the venue and the guys tuxes if you are using white colors (ex. ivory linen vs. white linen table cloths). This has to be done early so that you have enough time for alterations. (6 months before).
  -Have your colors or theme picked out, this will help you pick your linens, tuxes, dresses and floral arrangements
  
  [5 months before]
  -Brides maids dresses can be picked out 5 months before. It has to be early to get the orders shipped etc. You need time for alterations.
  -Tuxes can been picked out. (5-4 months before) if there are no special occaisions (ex. prom, homecoming, more weddings, etc.), otherwise get them now!
  -There tends to be a lot of caterers, but book them early so that they can reserve your wedding date (5 months before).
  
  [4 months before]
  -Other services to book should be done at least 4 months before (ex. DJ's, photographer, videographer, vocalists, florists, bar, limo, musicians). Don't sweat the details or packages yet, just lock in the date first.
  -Purchase the invitations (or do this earlier if it takes a while to get them!)
  -Book the hair, makeup and nail salons for you and your bridesmaids. Schedule an initial trial run 2 or 3 weeks before your wedding date.
  -Reserve hotel rooms for guests
  -Engagement photos
  
  If you do all of this 4th months before the wedding you should be in good shape.
  
  3 months before
  -Gift registry
  -Send out the invitations, the earlier you get them out the better.
  -Pick out the cake (this is my favorite part).
  -By now, you should have your wedding garments. An initial fitting for alterations for your wedding party.
  -Purchase the cake server, cake knife, gift card box, address book, unity candles (if required), purses, gloves, handkerchiefs, jewelry.
  -Did you have your songs picked out yet?
  -Now is the time to sit down and plan with the other services (ex. limo service, photographer, videographer, dj, musicians, singers, bar service, etc.)
  
  2 months before
  -Now from 2 months to the wedding date you should get your rsvps and so you now know your true weddding attendance count. Meet with the caterers and florist to determine how many tables, dishes, etc.
  -Pick up your wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses, shoes, purses from the order.
  -Plan your honeymoon if you plan on going right after the wedding.
  -Create programs for your ceremony
  -Purchase gifts for wedding party
  -Purchase gifts for each other.
  -Apply for marriage license with the city
  
  The last month (Crunch Time):
  -Here's where the real planning occurs. One last meeting with florist, caterers, hall/venue, videographers, dj
  -Get permits for wedding shoot location
  -reserve a restaurant or country club for wedding rehearsal dinner
  -Pick up marriage license
  -Send itinerary to wedding party and limo service
  -Get wedding favors made
  -Print out wedding program
  -Make sure you've paid all of your services the minimum down payment.
  -Bring everything you need at the venue to the caterers
  -Purchase champaigne for the limo ride
  -Purchase thank you cards
  
  Then go to rehearsal, have a nice dinner, give the wedding party their gifts.
  
  Next day, have the girls take the limo to the salon, get dressed, give each other gifts, get Married and party at your venue!
  
  I just got married this past September so it's still fresh in my mind. Good luck!
QUESTION:
How long does a wedding reception last? What is the typical timeline?
I am trying to plan my reception....I am having a 4 course meal...and dancing...a few speeches...
- ANSWER:
  It depends upon your venue.
  The most typical I have seen is 4-hours, generally as follows:
  Hour 1 - Cocktail hour
  Hour 2 - introduction, first dances, toast, speeches & beginning of the meal
  Hour 3 - conclusion of the meal & dancing
  Hour 4 - cake cutting & serving, dancing continues
  
  some venues don't limit your time, others allow 5 or 6 hours for receptions and the time is spaced out more.
QUESTION:
Can somebody give me a timeline on wedding rehearsal?
How does the ceremony go? I don't even know which side the bride stands on!! YIKES! Please help? If it helps it's going to be a catholic wedding. Thanks!!
Sorry! I mean what happens during the ceremony? LOL like who walks out first and how does it go?
- ANSWER:
  Hi. Relax! That is precisely why you have a rehearsal. At the rehearsal, the priest (or other wedding coordinator) will go over all the details with you. Who stands where....who walks with whom, etc. And then you will practice it a few times.
  
  So don't stress about it.
  
  FYI: The bride stands on the LEFT side at all weddings. Your groom will be to your right.
QUESTION:
Wedding reception timeline?
Ok so we are getting married June 20th, our ceremony is at the same place as our recepetion. Wedding is at 3:30 and dinner following. I have a Dj... So here is my delima, what would be the best timeline for the reception. It is located at an Eagles Lodge. Wedding is in same room as reception. Im just not sure how and when to start bride/groom and or father/daughter dance? I hope this all makes since.
- ANSWER:
  Depending on how long your ceremony is, how long you want for pictures (assuming you are taking pics between ceremony and reception) and what time you have the lodge until... here is what I would suggest:
  
  3:30 - 4:15 ceremony
  4:15 - 4:30 reception line (where your guest greet you for the first time that day)
  4:45 - 5:15 pictures
  4:45 - 5:15 cocktail 1/2 hour (important to entertain your guests while you take pics!)
  5:15 Wedding party announcements
  5:30 Bride / groom 1st dance followed by....
  Father / daughter dance
  Mother / groom dance
  Then, party your butt off... Hope this was helpful. Just remember to have fun, that's the most important part!!
QUESTION:
Wedding Reception Timeline?
I am having difficulties deciding on the wedding reception timeline.

This is what I am considering..

Wedding Party Enters
Appetizer/main course/dessert Served
Speeches (during dessert)
First Dance (bride and groom)
Dancing
Cake cutting
Father - Daughter Dance
Cake Cutting
Dancing
Bouquet toss/garter toss
Dancing

Does anyone have any more suggestions to make it flow better?
- ANSWER:
  well do u want to cut some costs down??? my sister saved a few hundred on doing all the formals first so the photographer didnt have to get paid for 3 more hrs like they got in did the
  
  wedding line greeting
  right to the first dance
  father daughter
  mother son
  cut the cake
  bouquet/garter
  dinner
  dancing.
  
  i think it went well due to we got alot of awkward moments out an then were able to party an drink an not look like fools on photos and she didnt have photos of half drunk liq on the table also she provided some disposable cameras for after dinner of us dancing
QUESTION:
wedding photographs--timeline?
My fiance and I are planning to do pictures before our wedding ceremony. I know we need to have time for photos of him alone, me alone, us together, and us with our families. And, I have a list of the photographs we want to have taken. What I don't know is, about how long should we allow for these photographs? If we want to be at the church by 11:45am (need to leave the park where we are taking pictures at 11:30am), what time do we need to start? I am trying to estimate how long we will need the photographer.
- ANSWER:
  Depending on how many pictures you want to take, you will probably need an hour to an hour and a half to take pictures. I'd ask for the photographer's recommendation too. Chances are they will not 'pad' it too much. They know that you will know if they are tanking or standing around not taking pictures!
  
  Best wishes and good luck!
QUESTION:
Appetizers Only Wedding Reception Timeline?
I'm having an appetizers only wedding reception but they're pretty heavy appetizers and everyone will leave full. If I'm serving only appetizers, then what do I do during the "cocktail" hour? (There will not be any alcohol during the reception)
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
suggestions wedding ceremony timeline?
For our wedding reception: first hour is cocktail hours...then bridal entrance followed by our first dance, father/daughter dance and mother/son dance. After these dances, guest make their dinner orders and during this time, we plan to make our rounds to each table to give thanks to our guest. Once dinner orders are done and our rounds to table are done, we will have toasts. Next, people will eat and dance....then after guest have some time to eat and dance a little, we will have cake cutting, followed by removal of garter/garter toss/bouquet toss/garter on...then end of the last hour or so with dancing!!

What did you do (or plan on doing) for your wedding reception timeline? And any suggestions?
- ANSWER:
  1. Cocktail hour (1.5 hours)
  2. Me and my fiance's grand entrance
  3. First dance
  4. Toasts (5-10 minutes)
  5. Eating time! (2 hours)
  6. Cake cutting (10 minutes?)
  7.. Father/Daughter dance
  8.. Mother/Son dance
  9. Party time! (dancing) (2 hours)
  10. Cake serving
  11. Little more partying (15-30 minutes)
  12. Last dance
  13. Grand exit! (complete with the toss of rose petals)
  
  ...I don't exactly have all the timing planned out, as you can see...:/
  
  TIP: Generally it takes a while for the caterers to actually cut the cake to be served for the guests. It's not a 5-minute process, I can tell you that much.
QUESTION:
Did you really follow that annoying wedding timeline checklist...?
or did you just plan things as you saw fit?
- ANSWER:
  I didn't do it in that exact order, but I was glad to have it because there were things that I forgot to do and it reminded me to get them done!
QUESTION:
I need wedding timeline advice....?
Our ceremony should begine around 4 pm. Our reception is ending around 10 with a sparkler send off. Can someone give me an idea of a wedding time line including:
a very simple ceremony, photos, introduction, 1st dance, informal buffet dinner, dancing, father/daughter mother son dance, cake, bouquet/garter toss, short short short toasts, etc...
I'm having a really really tough time coming up with one that seems efficient.
- ANSWER:
  Will you have a DJ? Ours was a great help when it came to the time line and when certain events will happen.
  
  Here is a rough time line based on how ours went. (I'm assuming your ceremony and reception are in the same place)
  Ceremony 4-4:30
  Pics from 4:45 to 5:30 while they have cocktail hour or hor devourves
  
  Reception 5:30-10 with your intro being around 5:45 or 6.
  
  Here's the order we went in. Nothing in between. Your reception is a little longer than mine, so you could space things out if you wanted to.
  Introduction
  Toasts
  Buffet
  Cake cutting
  First dance
  Daddy/Daughter dance
  Bridal Party Dance
  Anniversary Dance
  Bouquet Throw
  Garter Toss
  Free dancing
  
  I hope that helps And don't worry too much, it'll all work out!
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline and Photography...?
Long story:
I have always wanted my fiance to have to wait and see me all put-together until he saw me coming down the aisle. BUT we want fantastic photographs and a pretty formal wedding, so that would dictate that the photographs be taken outside in natural light (for the great photographs) and the wedding take place in the evening (for the formality) which means the photographs would have to be done before the ceremony.

Should I just get over the whole idea of him not seeing me until the ceremony?
Should I buck tradition and etiquette and have a formal wedding with a ceremony in the day and the reception in the evening?
Should I change my theme?
- ANSWER:
  i work in the wedding business and from my experience, couples who do their photos BEFORE the cereony get things done on time. whenever they do photos after the ceremony, they are always late for the reception. there arent a lot of photographers who do their photos quick. its always the photographers that hold up everyone else. if u have a list of photos u want taken by the photographer, the longer it is, the longer it will take for the photographer. in jewish weddings, the couples see each other before the wedding and me (as the videographer) make sure that i get them on tape seeing each other for the first time. and its not only jewish weddings that do that. my husbands nephew did that too because they didnt want to mess around with photos after the ceremony---they wanted to party right away.
  so what u could do is still have this "first time seeing each other" but not on the aisle. just make sure u have ur photographer (and video if u have) right there when u guys do see each other. it saves time and u end up doing more photos when u do it BEFORE.
  
  hope that helped!
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline Help!!!!?
My wedding ceremony starts at 6:30pm. I was told 3:30 would be a good time for the wedding party to be at the church. I don't know what time I should have my hair and makeup appointment for. They are at different places and both take atleast an hour by itself. The drive between the two is maybe 20mins depending on traffic and what time it is (wedding is on a saturday and traffic picks up). I would love to have someone come to the church also instead of going to two different places but I can't get into the ceremony site until 3:30pm. Please give suggestions...I'm stressing.
what time is to early and too late for hair appointments?
- ANSWER:
  I would get your hair done before you go to the church and then have the makeup artist show up and do your makeup at the church. It really depends on your choice of hair style though, if its an updo sprayed into place having it done earlier shouldn't matter but if you are doing it down or curled or something you might have to do it closer to your wedding time.
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline troubles...need some opinions:?
Ok, so our Wedding Ceremony starts at the Church at 4:30pm. The Reception (Held 25 mins away) Is starting at 6pm, but allowing guests to arrive at 5:45pm. I can only afford to have my photographer for 4 1/2 hrs. Which Scenario should I go with:

1. 3:00pm: Photographer arrives-Gets pics of Bride getting ready, and gets pics with Bride and Family and Groom and family (keeping Bride and Groom seperate) out of the way early.
4:30pm-Ceremony begins
5pm: Have a receiving line at the church to greet guests ( holding them up so they don't arrive too early to reception)
5:30- Take rest of pictures ( Bride/Groom with family/wedding party.
6:30 -Bridal Party arrives at Reception
7pm: dinner begins
7:45: First dance/Parents dance
8:45: cut cake/bouquet Garter
11pm: reception ends
or
2. 4:30: Ceremony Begins-Photographer arrives right in time to shoot ceremony
5:00pm: Take all posed pics at once-no receiving line
6:05 or 6:10: Bridal party arrives at Reception( greets tables instead of receiving line)
6:45: Dnner Begins
7:30 First dance and parents dance
8:30: cut cake and bouquet/Garter toss.

In scenario #1 we would only be able to have professional pics at the ceremony not the reception, though we have about 10 digital cameras to sit at tables so the guests can get pictures for us. And we don't risk having people arrive too early.

In Scenario #2 we would be able to keep the photographer to take pics of all the reception happenings, but we will risk guests arriving too early to the reception and getting bored before we arrive. What is your opinion? I can not change the ceremony or reception start times.
- ANSWER:
  In scenario #1, if he starts at 3:00, then he's gone at 7:30, so the photog would miss the dance and the cake.
  
  In 20 years, which will matter more? Pictures of the cake, and the dance, or the receiving line? You will want more pictures of everyone having a good time, than everyone standing around shaking everyone's hands - trust me!
  
  There MUST be a happy medium, because you will also want pictures of you getting ready - maybe have him show up at 3:45 instead? That gives you 45 minutes to finish getting ready, (and, sincerely, if your hair and make-up are done by 3:45, how flippin' long DOES it take to step into a dress and put on your shoes?) and then he can get shots of the wedding party after the ones of you.
  
  In my humble opinion, the pictures that matter most are of the wedding party and family stuff, his face the first time he sees you walking towards him, your hands when you're putting rings on, the kiss, you getting to the reception, the dance, the cake and a bunch more of everyone having a good time. The rest just won't matter !
  
  Congrats, and have a blessed day
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline without a Dinner...?
We are getting married in June. And I have been looking everywhere for some information or insight on our reception time line. We are getting married in a private ceremony on Thursday and having a large reception on Saturday starting at 7p.m. We are having appetizers and cocktails.
However, I cannot figure out if we should be there at 7 or should we show up around 7:30 and be introduced. Also, since there is no dinner do we immediately start our first dance? I think that we will do the toast on Thursday night at the dinner we are having.
In other words I cannot figure out any sort of timeline for all the happenings for a reception without dinner. Any help will be useful! Thanks in advance!
- ANSWER:
  how about...
  
  7-8:00 Cocktail & Appetizer Hour
  
  Presentation of the couple & First Dance 8:00
  (i think you should be there before 7 to socialize with the guests during appetizers...)
  
  8:-12:00 Mingling & Dancing with the Bride & Groom!
QUESTION:
How do I coordinate a wedding reception?
I am having my wedding reception on June 13,2009. My Fiance and I are planning a private ceremony with only immediate family prior to this date. Because I will be already married before this date would I still do the normal wedding reception timeline for example be introduced as the Mr. & Mrs, first dance, dance with father, cake cutting , toasting, and etc....
- ANSWER:
  We are doing this as well. We plan on showing the reception guests a video of the ceremony as it will only be short then having ourselves introduced by a friend, probably something along the lines of And now to present Mr & Mrs. Then a cake and cocktail hour after which We are inviting anyone who would like to do a speech/toast to do so, we are having a band who will then say this is for _______, where we will have something like the first dance then get other guests up on the floor with us afterwards. There are no limits, you can do it however you would like to
QUESTION:
What do you think of this Wedding Timeline?
Pre-ceremony

6:30 – 7:00Guest Seated (Run with it; nice soft music)

Ceremony

7:00 Wedding Ceremony begins

Mom’s escorted down (Grooms mom first, then my mother second)
(Song __________________)

When my mom arrives moms get up to walk up and light candle

Joey (Minister) & Sean walk down

Nathan & Alison (Jr. Groomsman & Jr. Bridesmaid)

Bryce & Deb (Groomsman & Bridesmaid)

Steve & Heidi (Groomsman & Bridesmaid)

Mike & Jamie (Best Man & Matron of Honor)

My entrance with my dad (Song “Wedding March”)

Joey - (Reading) 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8a
Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude.

Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never ends.

Joey Speak Freely

(Vows) I, (name), take you, (name), to be my lawfully wedded (husband/wife), my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. In the presence of God, our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live.

Ring Exchange:
I give you this ring as a sign of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have; I honor you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Unity Candle (Song – “When you love someone” Byan Adams) Fade out

Joey (Reading)

The Blessing of the Hands
Amanda, please face Sean, and hold his hands, palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and vibrant with love, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life. These are the hands that will work along side yours, as together you build your future, as you laugh and cry, as you share your innermost secrets and dreams.
These are the hands you will place with expectant joy against your stomach, until he too, feels his child stir within you. These are the hands that look so large and strong, yet will be so gentle as he holds your baby for the first time. These are the hands that will work long hours for you and your new family
These are that hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy These are the hands that will comfort you in illness, and hold you when fear or grief wrack your mind. These are the hands that will tenderly lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into his eyes: eyes that are filled completely with his overwhelming love and desire for you.
Sean, please hold Amanda’s hands, palms up, where you may see the gift that they are to you. These are the hands of your best friend, smooth, young, and carefree, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as she pledges her love and commitment to you all the days of her life.
These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing them through illness and hurt, supporting and encouraging them along the way, and knowing when it is time to let go
These are the hands that will massage tension from your neck and back in the evenings after you’ve both had a long hard day. These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times These are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick, or console you when you are grieving.
They are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness. These are the hands that will hold you in joy
and excitement and hope, each time she tells you that you are to have another child, that together you have created a new life. These are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to chase down your dreams. Together as a team, everything you wish for can be realized.
Sean and Amanda, these are the hands that will enter the Sacrament of Matrimony. These four hands will be your armor and shield against the evils and temptations of the world. These are the hands that will reach out, first to each other, then united, will spread your love and your sacrament to all they touch. These are the hands that will ease your parents’ loneliness as you leave the nest, will first teach your own children the marvels of married life, and will be a sign to friends and strangers alike as to just how wonderful married life can be. Through these four hands, God will renew His Church.
God, bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their wondrous love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and devoted in reaching for your perfection. May Sean and Amanda see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter, and guide. We ask this in your name, Amen.

Joey – Present Mr. & Mrs. ask guest to mingle in main hall while DJ equipment is moved into the reception room, approximately 20 minutes.

Exit (Song “Beautiful Day” U2)

After Ceremony

Sean and I are going to go up to the room where I am getting ready. We need the wedding party to keep the guest down in the main hall while the DJ moves his equipment up to the reception room. Wedding party wait to enter reception are so we can be introduced.

Reception:

8:00Everyone is in the room getting drinks / appetizers

Introduce Wedding Party (Song “Bittersweet Symphony” The Verve)

Let everyone mingle for a bit and eat get drinks

Sean and Amanda First Dance (Song “Lost in this moment”)

Cut the cake (Song “How sweet it is to be loved by you)

Toast by (Best Man) Mike & (Matron of Honor) Jamie

Continue Mingling

Father / Daughter & Mother Son Dance (Song “My Wish”)

Rest of the night run with the music

11:30 Last Dance (Song “Wonderful Tonight” Eric Clapton)
Just wanted to add that there are no grandparents nor ring bearer or flower girl.
Im not really sure that my fiance and I want a recieving line.. What do you think?
Yes, Im sure about the Verve. We are using it for the beat, not the lyrics. It was actually a popular song for wedding party announcements on a website I found.
- ANSWER:
  I feel like I was there and it happened already from reading all of that.Lol
  
  I love the (Reading) 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8a
  It seems like your wedding is going to be great! Congrats =)
QUESTION:
Does this seem like a crazy wedding timeline for a formal wedding?
Sunday in November:

10:00 Ceremony
12:00 Cocktail Hour
1:00 Reception
5:00 Over

This is a full reception with hours d'vours, salad course, appetizer, sorbet, main course, and dessert. We want a formal wedding, but since we are not really nighttime people, we don't want it over at 11:00 at night. Those were our only two options due to the location: either the cocktail hour could start at 12 or it could start at 6.

Are we nuts for doing it this early? Is it OK to have a formal wedding at this time of day?
it's also completely open bar with "top-shelf premium liquor"
- ANSWER:
  It sounds good as far as timing between events goes especially if the ceremony and reception are at different places, but I am worried about the time of day.
  
  It seems to be neither lunch or dinner. I think people will be starving by the time the meal is served. Or they may infer from the times that it is not a full meal and eat beforhand.
  
  Personally I would push it back to the 6pm time slot.
  There is nothing to say you cannot wrap it up before 11pm if you wanted. Ours finished at 10:30.
QUESTION:
Would this be ok for a general wedding timeline?
I always wanted a full sit down dinner at my wedding but these days you're looking at between - 0 per person (for dinner,dessert,drinks). That's heaps! I dont know if my partner and I can afford that!

So, what im thinking is this:

- Ceremony - mid to late afternoon.
- Bridal party have photos and meet up with imidiate family for dinner.
- Meal while, guest go off an have their own dinner.
- We all meet up at about 8/8:30pm and sit down for dessert,coffee,drinks and dancing.

I would plan quite an extravagant dessert selection and would still have a first dance and a father/daughter dance, speaches etc.

What do you think? Do you think its a bit cheap? Do you think guests will mind having to do their own thing for dinner?
I really want to do something at night...so we can dance the night away!

If I have to compromise on the dinner, I dont want to have to compromise on the time. I want something at night....bit wierd dancing during the morning.

I cant expect people to take too much time off of work - week day wedding would be too hard. I dont mind the idea of an afternoon wedding with an afternoon tea...that would be good.

Then immediate family and birdal party ONLY could go for dinner...that could work!
ps. Im in Australia. We have family spead across several states so we will be having the wedding in a different state to where we live, a state that is a central location for everyone attending....so 90% of guest will have to travel to get there...
Getting Stronger Every Day -
Thats a good idea - we could have dinner seperatly...(eg. I would have dinner with my mum, mum in law and bridesmaids)...then have a late ceremony, followed by a dessert night! Thatd be fun!
Stephanie....Thanks for all your ideas!

I really like the idea of having a dessert reception...but if we have a late ceremony and go to the respection straight away...when do we do photos?

We could do our individual photos before the wedding but when do we do the the couple/bridal party photos?

Could we leave the reception for an hour?

I would have preferred out door photos - at sunset....hmm.

There is so much to consider!!
- ANSWER:
  OH NO! You can't do this! I'm sorry but this isn't a good idea. Your guests won't like having to leave and come back hours later, especially if they've travelled from out of town and don't know the area.
  Based on the fact that you really want to have dancing and such, a dessert reception would be perfect for you!
  
  --- The Dessert Reception ---
  Best held later in the evening (like around 8pm). Because of the time of night, it is perfect for dancing away into the wee-hours!
  Avoid doing this around dinner time hours of 5-6:30pm as guests will arrive expecting a full meal.
  A dessert reception is perfect for getting people to mingle, as it is less of a sit-down type thing. Serve the desserts buffet style with small portions of everything so people can sample a bunch of everything. Also, you'll want to include a couple savory items so your guests don't go into a sugar coma! (Think a cheese display, fruit, etc.) Note: Wedding cake is still expected, however you can save money on that because people won't be eating as much of it as they would at a regular dinner reception. Keep portions small!
  To avoid long lines, make sure to set things up around the room so its not one line feeding the whole place... otherwise you run into a "traffic jam" kind of situation.
  Also, because this is a more mingle-friendly event, you should plan for seats to accommodate about 65% of your guests.
  Informing guests: Important! To ensure guests don't arrive starving and expecting a full meal, you should phrase the invites like this: "Dessert reception immediately following the ceremony"
  
  My best friend is doing a dessert reception too! They can be so much fun!
  
  Congrats and best of luck with your wedding plans! Feel free to zap me an email any time and I'll be more than happy to help!!
  
  EDIT:
  As far as the photos issue, you have a few options. I suggest talking with your photographer and ask them their opinion too. Since its late in the evening, you want to think about where your photos will be. As soon as the ceremony is done, you and your hubby and bridal party/parents run off and do photos, just as you would during a regular dinner reception while everyone else is having cocktails.
  Your other option (which gives you more time with your guests) is to get some of the posed, group photos out of the way before the ceremony even starts -- that is, if you're ok with seeing your man before the ceremony. This option will give you more daylight for photos too! If you're considering seeing your hubby-to-be before the ceremony but don't want to miss out on that moment when you first see him then consider this -- you can have a great private moment before the ceremony where you see each other for the first time and share some private words... it could be really sweet and romantic. And then you could also have your sunset photos!
QUESTION:
wedding & reception timeline?
I am having my wedding and reception at the same location and I am not sure about the time line. I have to let the DJ know when do to what but I am not sure. The music is starting at 5pm with the wedding at 6 and goes until 12. But other than that, I don't know where to go. Can someone please offer some advice?
ceremony music begins @ 5 (says the DJ)while guests arrive. actual ceremony is at 6pm, probably will not be longer than 30 minutes and pictures will be after that and before the reception. The DJ asked me when we want to do all the different dances and garter and bouquet toss and when dinner is served etc.
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Wedding timeline help?
We are getting married at a chapel that gives us 5 hours. We can arrive at 5:30, the ceremony is at 6, ceremony ends probably around 6:45 and reception ends at 10:30. We can add extra time to the beginning or end or both. We are definitely adding at least an hour to the beginning and we will show up practically completely ready and do all photographs (including those with him and I together). Hopefully an hour and a half will be enough for that and if not, we may add another hour. If the ceremony ends at 6:45 and we go directly into the reception (since all pictures are done) the reception would end up being 3.5-4 hours. Is that enough time? We are having heavy hor'dourves and the normal dancing, bouquet toss, etc. I would love to extend it more into the night but I believe it's 0/30 minutes....
- ANSWER:
  I would just leave things the way they are. We thought we would need more time than a 4 hour reception. You have to remember a lot of guests will leave after the cake has been cut due to other commitments (kids at home, etc.). It will all work out just fine!
QUESTION:
Stressed about wedding timeline!!?
I am getting married in a couple of weeks.

Vendors are asking me what time I want them to be at the church. My mom is asking me what time my grandparents should be at the church to take photos before the ceremony.

My fiance's sister-in-law emailed me, to ask when she should meet us at the church because her daughter (the flower girl) will be getting her hair done.

AAAAHHHHH don't know what to do!?

And the florist and photographer had down two totally different times. The ceremony starts at 3 but on the invitations says 2:30.

Makeup and hair starts at 8 AM. They should be done at 10:30 AM. My Mom will take me to my parents house to pick up my dad with the rented SUV they got (after my dad puts on his tux, and take us to the church, where we will get dressed with the bridesmaids in a separate room.)

From there, I am foggy and not sure how to do this.....any ideas? Also, the MOH wants to go out to lunch but I don't think we will have enough time. I'm thinking bring treats to the spa in the morning so we can eat something?

(The photos beforehand are just family/bridal party, not me and the groom seeing each other.)
I told the MOH no lunch, and we will just bring trail mix or something from the day before.
- ANSWER:
  you have made this way too complicated for yourself and everyone
  
  you should have "one place" not 3
  
  choose a place to get ready, hair/makeup for all bridal party, parents present, flowers arriving, photographer arriving, car arriving all to the same place (prob best to be ur parents)
  
  tell your sister in law to bring her daughter mid way through hair and make up to this one place
  
  tell ur MOH to bring a pack lunch (or bring some sandwiches) with u
  tell the florist to deliver flowers mid way through getting ready, order photographer to arrive towards the end of getting ready
  
  if u get ready in the church u miss the getting out of the car photos etc
  
  and you didnt make it clear, your going to a spa int he morning if your wedding?
QUESTION:
Wedding DJ Script/Timeline?
My fiance and I are not hiring a DJ for our wedding. Instead, we are having a friend with a very loud, outgoing personality MCing for us. He will be using either an ipod or his computer.

However, neither he or I know what to as far as what to say, and when to do it.

The reception is only 3 hours long. Included in the script/timeline I would like the following. *note, there is no meal, just snacks*
*Grand entrance, with the wedding party included in the entrance (wedding party includes Mother and Father of bride, Mother and father of groom, MOH, Best man, 1 Bridesmaid, 1 Groomsmen)
*toast
*father daughter dance
*mother son dance
*cake cutting
*Garter toss
*bouquet toss
*first dance as a married couple
*dollar dance (we will not have a receiving line)

Please, please help me out! If you have any other ideas, please let me know!!!
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Wedding dress timeline?
How long does it usually take after you order a dress to recieve it, and then how long would alterations generally take? I am getting married next summer, but am now in the process of weight loss (for my health, not for my wedding), anyway I can't order a dress until next april, my wedding is in August.
- ANSWER:
  you should be safe if you order in april but you want to have time incase they screw up - my sis-in-law's dress came in in the wrong color and they almost didn't make it (she had her final fitting 2 days before the wedding - thank god it fit!)
  so you should know around jan/feb what size you will be by apirl - try the dress on in the size that fits - and if you'll be in a smaller size get the dress in that size - that way you can start getting it fitted in april if everything goes right and send it back and still have time if there's a problem
QUESTION:
What are the wedding planning steps?
I have to save one thousand more dollars and then my fiance and I will have 4 thousand dollars to spend on a wedding. We are still going to save though so we can pay for other things as we go. I want to get married sometime next year.

What is a good timeline for wedding planning? What are the steps? Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  http://www.weddingplanning411.com/
QUESTION:
Wedding Morning Timeline Help!?
Hi! I need some help figuring out my wedding morning time line for my makeup artist and hairstylist for my wedding in two weeks, I know I should be able to do this on my own, but I don't know, I'm just stressed and it gives me a headache!
So there are four girls total, including me, and two of us are getting are makeup done and all are getting hair done. The makeup will take one hour each, for me and my MOH, and the hair will be one hour for me and about 30 min. for each girl. Also, the makeup artist wants our hair done BEFORE our makeup. If possible I want my makeup and hair done after everyone else's. Additionally, my MOH and myself need to the the flower girls hair and the two bridesmaids eye makeup. We need to be done with EVERYTHING at 11:30 am. I know that it is a lot So what I need is some super talented somebody to tell me when the girls should arrive, when the hair and makeup ladies should arrive, and a time line of everything in between, thank you sooo much in advance!
- ANSWER:
  O.k. let two brides maids do their own eye makeup or two other bridesmaids do it, they can just practice, gotta start cutting or you are going to have to get up at 5, may still have to, are hair dressers and make up artists coming to your house, church or where. Will need to add in travel time. Get bridesmaids to go ahead and set their hair on hot rollers (give time for the rollers to get good and hot) to have this done, this will work for hair up or hair down, gives a lots of body and amount of curl they want can be brushed out by stylist.So cut down on bmaids hair to twenty-five min apiece, since they will be rolled, this will be 25 x 4 = one hour.
  Get two other bridesmaids who are not doing the eyeshadow to take care of flower girls. Have their mothers roll their hair the night before on those pink spongy rollers and they willhave lots of curls and like the bm, the amount of curl can be combed out. Decide on how you want flower girls hair (you have an s on girls, so I am assuming there will be two flower girls??) Sketch out how you want their hair or go over with the two bridesmaids who will be doing the flower girls hair, unless their Mother's can do it. This would be a big help.
  You have to delegate!!!!!
  Hairstylist comes at 5 and make-up artist comes at 8 sharp.
  
  So, hair stylist should be done with brides maids within an hour, lets say an hour and a half to be safe. If bridesmaids are doing flower girls or their Mother's, then stylist should not have to do theirs.
  
  Even if it's two hours for bridesmaids, this will be approx. 7. O.K. you need to get your hair done when stylists are finished with bridesmaids , One hr. for your hair is 7-8 and makeup from 8-9. MOH, can be getting hair done while you are getting make up done. That still leaves MOH, make up. Approx an hour. so this will be about her make-up from 9-10.While she is getting her make-up done you sit down and rest,eat something if you haven't already done so, make yourself if you have to, and catch your breath and take a few sips of very cold water, not too many DO THIS!!!! You need it, take deep cleansing breaths and try to relax.. That leaves MOH make-up finished at let's say 10 for all. This leaves time for touch ups, you can check the flower girls, etc. This should give you plenty of time.. Don't know how much travel time you will need and if you have to get to church or venue and have someone not MOH to hand out flowers for all women and bouts for men Have her to have yours, bmaids, Moh and flower girls in the brides room, your Mother and his Mother and grandmothers corsages, if they are in the same room with you or whereever you will be staying before the ceremony starts first and then do men's bouts.. So this gives you from 10-10:30 to double check everything and take plenty of fans and cold bottled water if everyone will be in one room. Been there done that and there will be people coming in and out to see your dress, unless you post someone at the door and just tell them you are running behind, I would do this. They can either understand or go jump, it is your day and a bunch of hot women in one room makes for short tempers. So this leaves 10:30 to relax or go to venue or church if you need to. This is a tight schedule so tell everyone to be on time and stick to your schedule. If I were you, I would go ahead you and MOH and have hair set on hot rollers. This will save time, MOH can roll your hair for you, if you are nervous, Give rollers plenty of time to cool off, but do not take out till stylists start on your hair. Leave rollers, etc. in the dressing/hair/makeup room and delegate someone to take care of this for you, Again do not worry, amount of curl can be brushed out if necessary, but hot rollers will give a good base. stay on schedule. Getting up a 5 will be hard, but you may not be able to sleep anyway. Be sure to eat something as soon as you feel like tummy can take it, do not forget this. You do not want to faint from lack of food or for your blood sugar level to drop, so if you can't eat like me when you first get up, take a package of cinnamon buns, cinnamon twirls or muffins to the church. Since you will be nervous, delegate this to someone else and tell her to make sure you eat something. Delegate!!!
  
  Getting up this early should give you plenty of time, but you know how things go sometimes, you may run behind and this time schedule should give you enough time to make up if you have to. Wear comfortable shoes, you may want to change for reception as you will be standing for a long time. Have someone take a sewing chest, just in case and some safety pins and deoderant. If you are wearing new shoes, be sure to scuff them up, walk around in socks, walk on gravel or scuff up with thick grained sand paper.I had rather have too much time, than having to rush around and get all sweaty. That's all I can think of. I hope this helps and I wish you the very best!!!!JL
QUESTION:
What is a good detailed timeline for a may 2010 wedding?
I am having a wedding in may of 2010. We are having our wedding and reception in the same place but the place we are having both only allows a 5 hr rental for both the ceremony and reception. We are getting married at 5pm but the rental begins at 4:30. I am assuming our ceremony will be over at 5:30 and then we will be having our professional pictures taken for about an hour and during that hour we are planning on having cocktail hour for our guests. So what would be a good timeline for my wedding be? Also is 3 hours long enough for a reception for dinner and cake and dancing? Thanks any help or suggestions would be great!!
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Wedding Reception Timeline question, what to do after introduction instead of first dance?
I was wondering how to go into the reception right after taking photos after the ceremony. We are having the site's at the same place (a family home) I want to be introduced, but what do we do right after being introduced? I do not yet want to have our first dance because it is still daytime. I just need to know how to transition from photos-then into reception- straight to dinner. Please..thanks cw

This is my wishful timeline:
Ceremony
Photos
Introduction
Dinner
Toasts
First dance, etc.
- ANSWER:
  The introduction is all you need. Once you have entered the reception just organise for your caterers to feed everyone immediately. That is what happened at my wedding and it worked fine. (We actually had a very similar timeline to what you want...
  Ceremony
  Photos (while guests had nibbles)
  Introduction
  Dinner
  Toasts
  Dessert
  Cutting the Cake
  First Dance
  Etc...)