The day's timeline, from a single time
Enter the ceremony time: the day builds itself with the trade's timings. Remove what doesn't apply, copy it, or send it to your suppliers.
The timeline
13 moments- 11:00Hair and make-upAllow 2½ to 3 hours, bridal party included.
- 13:30Getting dressedThe photographer arrives for the details.
- 14:30Guests arriveOrders of service, ushers seating people.
- 15:00Ceremony45 min
- 15:45Recessional and congratulationsConfetti, first hugs.
- 16:05Drinks receptionGroup photos in the first fifteen minutes.
- 16:50Couple portraitsMake the most of the evening light.
- 17:35Guests take their seatsTable plan displayed at the entrance.
- 17:50Couple's entranceEntrance music agreed with the DJ.
- 18:00DinnerSpeeches between courses.
- 20:30Cake cutting and dessert
- 21:00First danceThen the dance floor is open.
- 02:00CarriagesLast shuttle, pack-down.
What this timeline allows for
- 15 minutes of slack before every departure: that's what absorbs the hair running late.
- Group photos at the start of the drinks reception, while everyone is still there and presentable.
- Guests go in 15 minutes before the couple, so everyone finds their seat.
And on the day, everyone knows
In Weddtap Pro, this timeline becomes the guests' page and every supplier's run sheet. A last-minute change is made once.
Discover Weddtap ProTiming questions
How long should hair and make-up take?
Two and a half to three hours for the bride, longer if the bridesmaids are done too. The timeline starts hair four hours before the ceremony, five with a first look.
How long should the drinks reception last?
An hour and a half is standard: long enough for group photos and a few drinks, not so long that guests get restless. Beyond two hours, plan some entertainment.
Why seat guests before the couple comes in?
So everyone finds their place before the couple's entrance, which is a moment of its own. Fifteen minutes is enough if the table plan is displayed, and on a Weddtap page every guest sees their table on their phone.