You’ve been so busy planning for the wedding that you’ve not thought about the timings on the day itself. Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered…
(Photo: Paul Govers)
Let’s be honest, the key to anything running smoothly is planning ahead. And it’s certainly the case for a wedding.
You’ve put so much time and effort into planning the details of the day, so next on your list should be creating a timeline – from the minute you start getting ready to the last song of the night.
Now, before we begin, we should point out that you don’t have to create a timeline (you might be a laid-back bride or your venue may even create one for you), and that it is entirely up to you.
However, if you do decide you’d like some sort of structure to the day, then keep reading...
Top tip – different locations for ceremony and reception
Keep in mind the below timeline is created for a ceremony and reception that are being held at the same venue and doesn’t allow time for guests to make their way to a separate party location. If they do, adjust your ‘post-ceremony time’ by how long it’ll take to travel.
Everything from the engagement to the big day: click here for our wedding planning timeline
(Photo: Connor Barrett)
Planning your wedding morning
7am: Wake up and have breakfast
Wedding days are long, so it’s important you have something to eat before the day kicks off. It also allows you to make the most of everything.
8am: Hair and makeup arrive
At first, this may seem like an early start but hair and makeup can take longer than you think.
Also, this time is also not based on having a big bridal party – just ensure you adjust accordingly (e.g. ask suppliers to arrive earlier) if you’re having more than three by your side, for example. Also factor in time for the mother of the bride/groom.
Top things not to forget when you're planning your wedding
11am: Photographer arrives
This is for those all-important detailed flat lays, getting ready shots and first looks.
12:30pm: Get the show on the road
If you’re not getting ready at the venue itself, then your photographer will make their way there ahead of time. This allows time for capturing wedding décor and group shoots of guests arriving.
Ideally, if you’re getting ready at another location, you’d be picked up at around 1.30pm – depending on the distance and travel time.
Top tip – trust your wedding suppliers
When it comes to specific supplier timings, these experts will keep you right on what they think will work best when it comes to your specific day and venue. Our times are only a guideline.
(Photo: Willow and Wilde)
Making sure your wedding ceremony is on time
1pm: Guests start arriving
Although the ceremony isn't starting for a little while, this gives guests time to head to the bar for a drink, get settled in and find their seat.
It’s also worthwhile putting a note on your invites to ask guests to arrive by 1:30pm – that way you don’t run the risk of anyone running late.
Everything you need to know to plan your wedding ceremony in Scotland
2pm: Ceremony starts
The duration of your ceremony really depends on the type you're having. For example, non-religious ceremonies last around 20 to 30 minutes, while religious-based ceremonies can last up to an hour.
Find the right celebrant or ceremony organisation for your wedding
Top tip – What time does a Twilight wedding start?
If your ceremony starts later, perhaps you’re having a twilight wedding, you'll be following a similar structure but with everything pushed a few hours back.
Your ceremony will take place in the early evening, with your guests arriving around 4pm. Afterwards you'll head straight to the reception to party the night away, with photos and a buffet factored in too.
An example of how this might look is:
4:00pm - Guests arrival and drinks reception
5.00pm - Ceremony
5:45pm - Canapés, drinks & pictures
7:00pm - Cake cutting and first dance
8.00pm - Buffet served
12:00am - Guests depart
(Photo: Craig & Eva Sanders)
What happens after a wedding ceremony
3pm: Drinks reception
While guests toast to the start of your marriage, you may want to look into some entertainment during this part for them.
For example, you can book garden lawn games, illustrators, musicians and even a photobooth.
From musicians to magicians – check out our pick of wedding entertainment in Scotland
3:30pm: Picture time
Set aside time in your wedding itinerary for photographs of just the two of you. You’ll only need 30 minutes or so, which means you won’t be away from your guests too long either.
5pm: Dinner and speeches
It’s now time to sit down and enjoy your wedding meal! It’s up to you if you’d prefer to do speeches before or after dinner but, as a general rule of thumb, each speech should last around 10 minutes.
Top tip – allow for extra time on your wedding day
A general timeline is great but remember to have fun and enjoy yourself! It’s also key to factor in ‘emergency time’ – things like couple photographs always tend to run over time.
(Photo: Charlotte Clemie)
How to plan a wedding reception
7:30: First dance and cake cutting
Technically the final ‘formality’ of the evening (if you choose to do it) is your first dance as a married couple and cutting your cake.
8pm: Dance the night away
Time to let your hair down!
Top tip
When it comes to ‘closing time’, make sure to also put this info on your invite so guests know when to book carriages!
