Planning a wedding can feel like conducting an orchestra while riding a unicycle. There are so many moving parts. But one thing that can bring a sense of calm to the chaos? Your wedding timeline. It won’t completely eliminate your planning stress, but it can move you much closer to enjoying a stress-free, joy-filled day.

In this blog, we'll break down some do's and don'ts so you can ditch the wedding day juggling act and embrace the celebration

THE DO'S OF WEDDING TIMELINE PLANNING

Do Start Early

One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself is to start planning your timeline well in advance. Begin drafting your schedule at least two to three months before your wedding so you’ll have plenty of time for adjustments and input from your vendors.

Do Build in Buffer Time

Wedding days rarely run exactly according to plan, and that's perfectly OK. Include 15-20 -minute buffers between major events to account for unexpected delays. These small time cushions can be lifesavers when:

  • Hair and makeup time runs longer than expected

  • Family members arrive late for photos

  • Weather conditions require last-minute adjustments

  • Guests take longer to be seated

  • Transportation hits unexpected traffic

Do Consider Your Photography Needs

Work closely with your photographer to ensure you allocate enough time for all desired shots. Essential photography timeframes to consider:

  • Getting ready photos: 1-1.5 hours

  • First look (if you’re having one): 30 minutes

  • Family portraits: 30-45 minutes

  • Wedding party photos: 45 minutes

  • Couple portraits: 30-45 minutes

  • Reception detail shots: 30 minutes

Do Plan Around Natural Light

If you're having an outdoor ceremony or want specific outdoor photos, consult with your photographer about optimal lighting times. Schedule key moments like ceremony and portraits during the "golden hour" (the hour before sunset) for the most flattering natural light.

Do Coordinate with Vendors

Share your timeline with all vendors at least two weeks before the wedding. This includes:

  • Hair and makeup artists

  • Photographers and videographers

  • Caterers and bar service

  • Florists

  • Musicians or DJs

  • Transportation services

  • Wedding planner or coordinator

THE DON'TS OF WEDDING TIMELINE PLANNING

Don't Forget About Setup and Breakdown

A common mistake is focusing solely on the main events while overlooking the logistics. Remember to account for:

  • Vendor setup times

  • Venue access restrictions

  • Decoration installation

  • Sound system checks

  • Food and beverage setup

  • Breakdown requirements

  • Cleanup time

Don't Schedule Things Too Tightly

Resist the temptation to pack your timeline too densely. A rushed schedule can lead to:

  • Increased stress levels

  • Missed photo opportunities

  • Less time to interact with guests

  • Reduced flexibility for unexpected situations

  • Shortened enjoyment of key moments

Don't Ignore Your Guests' Experience

While planning your timeline, consider your guests' comfort and engagement. Avoid:

  • Long gaps between ceremony and reception

  • Extended photo sessions that leave guests waiting

  • Delayed meal service

  • Running activities too late into the night

  • Insufficient time for dancing and celebration

Don't Skip Meals and Breaks

Include dedicated time for you and your wedding party to:

  • Eat breakfast before the day begins

  • Have snacks during hair and makeup

  • Enjoy actual meals during the reception

  • Take short breaks for touching up makeup or just breathing

Don't Forget to Share the Timeline

Avoid communication gaps by making sure everyone involved has access to the timeline. This includes:

  • The entire wedding party

  • Immediate family members

  • All vendors

  • Wedding coordinator or planner

  • Venue staff

Sample Timeline Framework

Here's a basic framework you can adapt for your wedding day:

Morning:

  • 8 a.m.: Hair and makeup team arrives

  • 8:30 a.m.: Bride and bridesmaids begin getting ready

  • 10:30 a.m.: Photographer arrives for getting ready shots

  • 11:30 a.m.: Groom and groomsmen begin getting ready

Afternoon:

  • 1 p.m.: First look and couple's portraits

  • 2 p.m.: Wedding party photos

  • 3 p.m.: Family portraits

  • 4 p.m.: Hidden away before ceremony/final touches

  • 4 p.m.: Guests begin arriving

  • 5 p.m.: Ceremony begins

  • 5:30 p.m.: Ceremony ends

Evening:

  • 5:45 p.m.: Cocktail hour begins

  • 6:45 p.m.: Reception room opens/guests seated

  • 7 p.m.: Grand entrance

  • 7:15 p.m.: Dinner service begins

  • 7:30 p.m.: Toasts

  • 8:30 p.m.: First dance

  • 9 p.m.: Parent dances

  • 9:15 p.m.: Open dancing

  • 10:30 p.m.: Cake cutting

  • 11:45 p.m.: Last dance

  • Midnight: Grand exit

Work with your vendors, particularly your photographer and wedding coordinator, to refine your timeline. Their experience with countless weddings makes them invaluable resources for creating a schedule that's both realistic and efficient so you get to enjoy every moment of your special day.

Since The Bell Tower on 34th opened more than a decade ago, it has earned a reputation as the best wedding venue in Houston.

Our southeast Texas venue with a chapel, waterwall, and beautifully tended grounds, can accommodate both small and large weddings.

Learn more about getting married here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355