May 7, 2025 • 22 mins
Is your Wedding Timeline ready?
Our latest episode of the Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast has all the tips you need!
This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations but want a fun wedding day.
Learn from our expert like Heidi Hanson and discover how to craft a timeline that ensures a hassle-free, joyous celebration.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Imagine your wedding day, a beautiful,once in a lifetime celebration, where
every moment is carefully orchestratedlike a magnificent musical composition.
Just as a symphony requiresprecise timing, coordination, and
passion, so does your wedding day.
What are the most common mistakes couplesmake when creating a wedding timeline?
(00:24):
How can you ensure your weddingtimeline stays flexible, in
case of unexpected delays.
Thanks for joining us today.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
Hi, I'm Heidi Hanson fromHeidi Hanson Photography.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
Plus, we'll explain what a typicalwedding timeline looks like.
(00:46):
When your wedding ceremony should start,is a critical part of all of this.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events New England.
Listen now and master your weddingtimeline revealing the secrets
of a hassle-free wedding day.
These are Wedding Insider secrets fora stress-free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
(01:10):
while addressing family expectations.
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone planning awedding all in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you don't wanna miss this.
(01:32):
Welcome to Stress-free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
(01:53):
Get ready to unveil thebest kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
(02:16):
On today's edition, mastering Your WeddingTimeline, revealing the Secrets to a
Hassle-Free Wedding Day, we'll explainsome tips for balancing both traditional
and modern elements in a wedding timeline.
We'll walk you through a typicalwedding day schedule, helping
you understand the key momentsand how to plan them effectively.
So with our guest, Heidi.
(02:37):
You should grab a pen andpaper and take some notes.
Hi, I'm Sam from the Award-WinningAtmosphere Productions Wedding
Entertainment with Expert Knowledgeand the Difference in quality.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand journey to help you with
Stress-free Wedding Planning in thetrailer or pilots of this podcast.
(03:00):
Hi, I'm Sal from After HoursEvents of New England, the
experts in creating a stress-freeunforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and passion to making every
couple's big day truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of New England dot com.
Today's edition is all about masteringyour wedding timeline, revealing the
secrets to a hassle-free wedding day.
(03:22):
Your wedding day is a meticulouslychoreographed celebration of love and
creating the right timeline is crucialto ensuring everything runs smoothly.
We have our special guests here.
Heidi, I'm gonna askyou a couple questions.
Heidi, if you don't mind.
Let's go with first.
What exactly is a wedding timeline?
So a wedding timeline is aguideline for how your wedding
day starts, flows and ends.
(03:45):
So what's the importance of needing one?
The importance is to keepeveryone on time, making sure
that everything runs smoothly.
All your vendors will havethe information, so everything
just flows perfectly.
Guests arrive on time,bridal party arrives on time.
All those important thingsto get everything happening.
So why is knowing your ceremony starttime, the key element in your timeline?
(04:11):
That is where you start and then youbuild your hours back from there.
If you know your ceremony starts atfive o'clock, that means that you
are lining up at 4 45, 4 50, andeverything builds back from there.
If you're doing your photos beforehand,you know that you need to be done
by four o'clock so you can go hideso no one can, no one sees you.
So all those little details buildoff of when your ceremony starts.
(04:35):
So Heidi, we're gonna go througha timeline based on your ceremony
starting at five o'clock.
So we're gonna buildeverything from that timeline.
Just so that, our listeners understand,if you're starting at 11 o'clock
in the morning, this is not thetimeline for you, or if your ceremony
(04:56):
is at six or seven in the evening,this timeline may not work for you.
So give us some details.
At the very beginning then how do yousit down and decide, ceremony's at five.
What's next?
How do you build that backwards?
So, okay, so everyone, your guestsare gonna be arriving about half an
(05:18):
hour before your ceremony starts.
Some will be early becausethey wanna get the best seat.
Your bridal party needs to be therehalf an hour before, at least.
So they can get lined up and boutinairrespinned on and, go to the bathroom, refresh
their makeup, all those little things.
And then if you're doingphotos beforehand, you need to
make sure that you are done.
I'd say about an hour before yourceremony so that way you can go hide,
(05:40):
freshen up, do all those things.
You need to allow about an hour forphotos at least, with your bridal party.
If you're doing your First Look.
If you're gonna do a private vowceremony, all of those things
take longer than you think.
The getting ready part, that'salways, a bone of contention
with me because it takes longerto get dressed than you think.
(06:02):
Guys have issues tying tiesor folding a pocket square.
I can't tell you how many weddings I'veshot where they're on YouTube, figuring
out what's the best, pocket square to do.
And with the ladies, there'salways gonna be wardrobe issues.
Someone's gonna always need touchup oftheir curls or lipstick or boob tape.
Like there's always a lotof things that go into it.
(06:23):
So building enough timein getting ready is huge.
Okay, so let's do some timing on that.
You've kind of built it backwards.
So what time, should all of this start?
If your ceremony is at five o'clock.
Obviously the ladies, and the gents needto wake up early, in, in, in the morning.
What is the morning preparationand what time should that start?
(06:47):
Typically it depends how bigyour bridal party is and how
long your hair and makeup takes.
So that's definitely somethingthat you wanna consult with
your hair and makeup people.
But I would say if you're starting around10 o'clock, that should be enough time
for everyone to get their hair and makeupdone and then transport to your venue,
get dressed there, do your private vows,your First Look, all of those fun things.
(07:09):
The photographer needs to obviously,arrive, which will obviously be sometime,
while the ladies are getting, dressed.
So is there a specific time that thephotographer is supposed to get there?
Depending upon how important gettingready photos are, 'cause every couple
is different, but typically we wouldarrive about half an hour to an
hour, left of the getting ready prep.
(07:31):
So that gives us enough time tocapture all the details, some
behind the scenes, the dress hangingshoes, jewelry, all that fun stuff.
If you're getting ready at 10, yourphotographer would arrive around 2, 2 30.
That was all great information.
This is, I hope everybody has thatpen and paper out and are taking
notes on this 'cause Heidi's givingsome really great information.
Now, Heidi, let's assume thatthey're having their first look
(07:55):
take place, prior to the ceremony.
How would that timetablecontinue from there?
Yeah, so usually we like to allowabout half an hour for the First
Look, because it never goes asquickly as you think it's going to.
So that it gives us enoughtime to set up our couple and
to really capture the moment.
And a lot of times they like to shareprivate vows, which we find is a
(08:18):
huge trend right now, and we love it.
It gives them like they're, it'sa raw, emotional moment and it
really gives a chance to just sayeverything that's on their mind.
So, again, I'd say about halfan hour, 45 minutes for that.
And then, sometimes family is there.
If they are, we will roll right into that.
If not, we'll do, we'll start rightwith the bridal party and we would
(08:39):
love half an hour for the bridal party.
That's always great.
because it gives us a chance to breakoff with each of the girls and the
guys, as well as the full bridal party.
And then as family arrives,we can jump right into family.
Worst case scenario that canbe done during cocktail hour,
right after the ceremony.
Just because some guests arrive late.
Grandma June's only comingto the ceremony, so we have
(09:00):
to wait until she's there.
So we're very flexible, but typicallyI'd say about half an hour for a bridal
party and another half an hour for family.
and then obviously halfan hour for the couple.
Something I know I like to make abig deal out of with our couples,
especially when they have the First Look.
You need to catch your breath, andhaving a break is absolutely important.
(09:21):
So, relaxing, going into that bridalsuite, being alone for a little while.
Just the two of you, nobodyelse, just the two of you.
So you could soak in those moments,that have already happened and
get ready for the rest of the way.
So we've just explained what exactly isa wedding timeline and why you need one.
Plus you learned about morningpreparation and pre ceremony photography.
(09:43):
Now, Heidi, let's get your social media.
Sure you could find me on Facebook, atHeidi Hanson Photography on Instagram
at Heidi Hanson Photo and online atHeidi Hanson Photography dot com.
Coming up next wedding ceremonyand reception timeline.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the Stress Free WeddingPlanning Community and ask away.
(10:04):
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam
and subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun and unforgettable wedding.
Experience the magic of your SpecialDay with Fitzner Productions.
(10:26):
Our premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory candidly and authentically
creating stunning high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
(10:49):
ceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi-location
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
(11:10):
and now it's time for my favorite segment.
It's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Typically, there's something thatwill go wrong at a wedding, but it's
so minute, it really doesn't matter.
Your family and friends don't knowwhat the plan was for the day.
So if something should go wrong,just roll with it and have a great
(11:32):
time and just keep that smile on yourface, dance the night away, and enjoy
what's happening in front of you.
Remember, they'll only rememberhow much fun that they had,
especially if cake is involved.
And that's another WeddingTip from Sal and Sam.
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
(11:53):
Join the group for free.
Heidi Hanson Photography, unhappy,a little unorthodox, sometimes
silly, with lots of candid.
Hi, this is Heidi fromHeidi Hanson Photography,
www.HeidiHansonPhotography.com.
I like being goofy with my couples,making them laugh, and overall just
having a blast on their wedding day.
Every wedding day is different, andthat is what keeps my job super awesome.
I serve as Connecticut and New York.
(12:14):
You can find me onwww.heidihansonphotography.com
and also on social media.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutMaster Your Wedding Timeline, revealing
the secrets to a hassle-free wedding day.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
And I'm Heidi from HeidiHanson Photography.
And I'm Sal From AfterHours events of New England.
We've already explained your weddingtimeline, what morning preparations
(12:36):
are, and what pre photography is.
Remember, when having a detailed timeline,it is important to be prepared for
slight variations, build in buffer timebetween major events to reduce stress.
Now, we'll talk about the ceremony timing.
There are three basic start times foryour typical ceremony, and as Heidi would
(12:59):
agree, the most popular was probably theafternoon, three to five slot, right?
Yes, absolutely A good majority ofweddings start between that time.
So typically then the first time slot isthe morning time slot between 10 and 11.
Afternoon is between three andfive, and the evening is between six
and seven, especially for you aredoing a traditional Jewish wedding.
(13:23):
So, Heidi, based on those time slots forthe ceremony, we're not gonna go into
detail what happens in the ceremony,but why are those three time slots the
most important part of the timeline?
Well, the a morning timeline, amorning wedding is definitely, you're
gonna, you're gonna be starting early.
Vendors are starting early,hair and makeup is starting.
(13:44):
Probably at like five in the morning.
So that's definitely something thatyou need to let all your guests
know, and your bridal party beforethey agree to be in the wedding.
Let them know, "Hey, you'regonna be up really early."
All right.
We've taken care of that whole ceremonything, now we have to get to the fun part.
Let's talk about the reception flow.
So the reception typically comes afterthe ceremony is done in most cases.
(14:10):
The very first thing is the cocktail hour.
Now, Heidi, based on our timeline,what time span is that cocktail hour?
So a cocktail hour istypically an actual hour.
Depending upon what venue you'reat, sometimes it can be an hour and
a half, a little bit more flexible,but typically it's about an hour.
And during that time, your guests.
Start eating, drinking, mingling.
(14:32):
You're doing the rest of yourportraits that you didn't get
to do before your ceremony.
and then typically your photographerwill spend about 10, 15 minutes
with you because now you'll haveyour rings, you'll be very, like,
you'll be even more happier.
A lot of the stress will bemelting away because you did it.
So that would be, if we startedthe ceremony at five, we're talking
(14:53):
anywhere from five 30 to six 30for the start of the cocktail hour.
Right?
Yes, correct.
It's about an hour long.
Yes.
Ok, so the next thing to happenthen would be the introductions,
and that would be about what time?
So you gotta allow your gueststime to find their seats and
to go to the bar one more time.
(15:13):
so typically I would sayintroductions would be about 6 45.
Okay.
So Sal, this is something that we liketo do, is to have the First Dance first.
So, right after the cocktail hour,just when the introductions are
starting, do the First Dance, why?
So having the First Dance rightaway is for a couple good reasons.
One, the groom, for instance, is dressedand looks sharp and everything is perfect.
(15:38):
And for our bride, her makeupis just the way she wants it.
Everything looks fresh.
The hair is perfect.
Let's get that out of the way right away.
Also, say if something does go wrongwithin the dinner section of the
reception, what you have to do is beable to fill it in with something.
So DJs, we would usually put in amusic set and have people dance.
(15:59):
So we can't do that if we haven't donethat First Dance yet, 'cause traditionally
First Dance happens first, then anyother dancing would happen later.
So it's just good to getit out of the right away.
And then typically the speechesand toasts happen next.
But Heidi, I know some peoplelike to do the toasts and
speeches after the meal as well.
(16:19):
Yeah.
and some of them will incorporatethem in between each course when,
everything's being cleared away.
So, it depends on how many speechesyou have, and we've seen an uptick
on the length of them, recently.
So, our best advice is thatif you are gonna do a long
speech, do it at the rehearsal.
Good point.
Good point.
So let's get back to the timeline then.
(16:40):
So we're talking about seveno'clock now to maybe eight o'clock.
We've done, the speeches, the FirstDance, and then we go into, the dinner.
Now, the dinner is something thatwe can't tell you, or even on the
timeline, how long that's gonna be.
It can be an hour and a half totwo hours to even three hours.
(17:03):
So that's something that you haveto speak to your venue and find out.
Based on the amount of guests thatyou have and the table settings,
how long do they estimate?
And then you've gotta kind of buildthat, that in, to your timeline and
obviously work with your DJ because,as Sal said before, if we need to do
something, during the dinner or at someother time, we can certainly do that.
(17:26):
So then the cake cutting, wouldbe typically next, and that's
between eight and maybe eight 30?
Yeah, that sounds about right.
Usually we like to try to do thatright after dinner 'cause guests
are ready to dance and party.
So you cut the cake.
That's kind of like, "Hey,let's get this going now".
Yep.
And Sal, you agree with that?
(17:47):
W would you do all the parentdances and anniversary dances,
et cetera, after the cake?
I'm finding, Heidi mentioned upticksand an uptick for is they're having
the parent dances right after the FirstDance, to kind of get them outta the way.
So you do remember, you have theoption of doing it in a couple places.
It either could be immediatelyfollowing the First Dance, or it
(18:08):
could be towards the end of the meal.
Typically, if you're doing it the endof the meal, I always say cake cutting
first, so that we could draw everyone'sattention to the dance floor for the
parent dances and move your way on.
Anniversary Dance is I knowsometimes DJ's will do that as
the first dance of the night.
I believe you've already had enoughslow song it time party going.
Do it where a slow song would'vehappened naturally within the dancing,
(18:32):
this way your just not taking up toomuch time up front and people wondering
when this thing is gonna start.
Yeah.
So now the party and the celebration,happens directly after that.
So you've got maybe 8 30, 8 45, 9 o'clockuntil maybe 11, the end of the evening.
Now, there's a couple of thingsthat you should be aware of
(18:52):
that you can put into that.
If there's a shuttle that needsto leave, you need that to be
in the timeline, and you needobviously the DJ to, announce that.
Are you finding, Heidi, thatthere's a lot of these announcements
for shuttles or transportation?
Yes, absolutely.
Couples are really trying tomake the whole wedding experience
(19:12):
perfect for their guests, so theyare including transportation.
So definitely, make sureyou have those times.
A lot of them will include them withtheir invitation, but definitely, let
your DJ know, have that announcement made.
You know, Heidi, something I'm findinga lot nowadays with my couples is they
don't always want that announced 'causethey, they're afraid it's hurting night.
(19:33):
I've had some where they had a signthat actually gives you the times that,
the shuttle will be there and leaving.
or yeah, as you mentioned, they'rehaving it on their invitation.
Most of the time they're havingit on their website, so they u
usually take care of the olderguests first, letting everyone know
throughout the night, "Hey, remembernine 30 our first shuttles there".
Because they just don't want thatto be announced because they're
afraid killing the party a little.
(19:55):
So everyone's different.
Yeah, absolutely.
We've had couples that leavelike little notes at the bar too.
'cause everyone's always at the bar.
And, and I'm glad you mentioned the barbecause one of the final items on the,
timeline should be when the bar closes,and we recommend about a half an hour
before the end of the event so peoplehave got time to grab a final drink and,
(20:16):
get the hell outta here as they say.
Yes.
And then obviously your timeline needsto have the end of the event, if there's
any cleanup that needs to be done andhow the couple are are going home.
All that should be on your, timeline.
So hopefully that's, helpedyou out a little bit.
Hope you had enough chanceto, jot details down.
(20:37):
If not, listen to this a secondtime and, grab all the details.
Speaking of details, Heidi,what is your social media?
My website is heidi Hansonphotography dot com.
Instagram at Heidi Hanson Photo andFacebook at Heidi Hanson Photography.
Great.
Thanks for joining us.
We appreciate it.
Thank you Heidi.
Creating the perfect weddingtimeline is an art form that balances
(21:00):
logistics, emotion, and personal style.
While these guidelines providea solid framework, remember that
your wedding should ultimatelyreflect your unique love story.
Collaborate closely with your weddingplanner, photographer, and vendors to
craft a timeline that feels naturaland allows you to fully enjoy every
magical moment of your special day.
(21:21):
So there you have it.
We've just provided some insidertips on how to master your wedding
day timeline, revealing the secretsto a hassle-free wedding day.
Are you ready to transform yourwedding day from a potential logistical
puzzle into an unforgettable,perfectly timed celebration of love?
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sam,
(21:45):
or our community of stress-freeengaged couples and wedding experts to
answer any wedding related questions,join us over in the Stress-free
Wedding Planning Facebook group.
Once you're in, go ahead and share yourconcerns and worries, and we'll let you
know if you are on the right track orif there's something we need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
go to Facebook and search for theStress-free Wedding Planning community.
(22:09):
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
Remember to do something nice for someonetoday, and if you can't do something
nice for yourself, we'll catch you then.
Caio!
Thank you for listening to this edition.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until
next time, it's TTFM Tata For Now,the Stress-free Wedding Planning
(22:33):
Podcast is produced and copyrighted byAtmosphere Productions in association
with after hours events of New England.
Imagine your wedding day, a beautiful,once in a lifetime celebration, where
every moment is carefully orchestratedlike a magnificent musical composition.
Just as a symphony requiresprecise timing, coordination, and
passion, so does your wedding day.
What are the most common mistakes couplesmake when creating a wedding timeline?
(00:24):
How can you ensure your weddingtimeline stays flexible, in
case of unexpected delays.
Thanks for joining us today.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
Hi, I'm Heidi Hanson fromHeidi Hanson Photography.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
Plus, we'll explain what a typicalwedding timeline looks like.
(00:46):
When your wedding ceremony should start,is a critical part of all of this.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events New England.
Listen now and master your weddingtimeline revealing the secrets
of a hassle-free wedding day.
These are Wedding Insider secrets fora stress-free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
(01:10):
while addressing family expectations.
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone planning awedding all in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you don't wanna miss this.
(01:32):
Welcome to Stress-free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
(01:53):
Get ready to unveil thebest kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
(02:16):
On today's edition, mastering Your WeddingTimeline, revealing the Secrets to a
Hassle-Free Wedding Day, we'll explainsome tips for balancing both traditional
and modern elements in a wedding timeline.
We'll walk you through a typicalwedding day schedule, helping
you understand the key momentsand how to plan them effectively.
So with our guest, Heidi.
(02:37):
You should grab a pen andpaper and take some notes.
Hi, I'm Sam from the Award-WinningAtmosphere Productions Wedding
Entertainment with Expert Knowledgeand the Difference in quality.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand journey to help you with
Stress-free Wedding Planning in thetrailer or pilots of this podcast.
(03:00):
Hi, I'm Sal from After HoursEvents of New England, the
experts in creating a stress-freeunforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and passion to making every
couple's big day truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of New England dot com.
Today's edition is all about masteringyour wedding timeline, revealing the
secrets to a hassle-free wedding day.
(03:22):
Your wedding day is a meticulouslychoreographed celebration of love and
creating the right timeline is crucialto ensuring everything runs smoothly.
We have our special guests here.
Heidi, I'm gonna askyou a couple questions.
Heidi, if you don't mind.
Let's go with first.
What exactly is a wedding timeline?
So a wedding timeline is aguideline for how your wedding
day starts, flows and ends.
(03:45):
So what's the importance of needing one?
The importance is to keepeveryone on time, making sure
that everything runs smoothly.
All your vendors will havethe information, so everything
just flows perfectly.
Guests arrive on time,bridal party arrives on time.
All those important thingsto get everything happening.
So why is knowing your ceremony starttime, the key element in your timeline?
(04:11):
That is where you start and then youbuild your hours back from there.
If you know your ceremony starts atfive o'clock, that means that you
are lining up at 4 45, 4 50, andeverything builds back from there.
If you're doing your photos beforehand,you know that you need to be done
by four o'clock so you can go hideso no one can, no one sees you.
So all those little details buildoff of when your ceremony starts.
(04:35):
So Heidi, we're gonna go througha timeline based on your ceremony
starting at five o'clock.
So we're gonna buildeverything from that timeline.
Just so that, our listeners understand,if you're starting at 11 o'clock
in the morning, this is not thetimeline for you, or if your ceremony
(04:56):
is at six or seven in the evening,this timeline may not work for you.
So give us some details.
At the very beginning then how do yousit down and decide, ceremony's at five.
What's next?
How do you build that backwards?
So, okay, so everyone, your guestsare gonna be arriving about half an
(05:18):
hour before your ceremony starts.
Some will be early becausethey wanna get the best seat.
Your bridal party needs to be therehalf an hour before, at least.
So they can get lined up and boutinairrespinned on and, go to the bathroom, refresh
their makeup, all those little things.
And then if you're doingphotos beforehand, you need to
make sure that you are done.
I'd say about an hour before yourceremony so that way you can go hide,
(05:40):
freshen up, do all those things.
You need to allow about an hour forphotos at least, with your bridal party.
If you're doing your First Look.
If you're gonna do a private vowceremony, all of those things
take longer than you think.
The getting ready part, that'salways, a bone of contention
with me because it takes longerto get dressed than you think.
(06:02):
Guys have issues tying tiesor folding a pocket square.
I can't tell you how many weddings I'veshot where they're on YouTube, figuring
out what's the best, pocket square to do.
And with the ladies, there'salways gonna be wardrobe issues.
Someone's gonna always need touchup oftheir curls or lipstick or boob tape.
Like there's always a lotof things that go into it.
(06:23):
So building enough timein getting ready is huge.
Okay, so let's do some timing on that.
You've kind of built it backwards.
So what time, should all of this start?
If your ceremony is at five o'clock.
Obviously the ladies, and the gents needto wake up early, in, in, in the morning.
What is the morning preparationand what time should that start?
(06:47):
Typically it depends how bigyour bridal party is and how
long your hair and makeup takes.
So that's definitely somethingthat you wanna consult with
your hair and makeup people.
But I would say if you're starting around10 o'clock, that should be enough time
for everyone to get their hair and makeupdone and then transport to your venue,
get dressed there, do your private vows,your First Look, all of those fun things.
(07:09):
The photographer needs to obviously,arrive, which will obviously be sometime,
while the ladies are getting, dressed.
So is there a specific time that thephotographer is supposed to get there?
Depending upon how important gettingready photos are, 'cause every couple
is different, but typically we wouldarrive about half an hour to an
hour, left of the getting ready prep.
(07:31):
So that gives us enough time tocapture all the details, some
behind the scenes, the dress hangingshoes, jewelry, all that fun stuff.
If you're getting ready at 10, yourphotographer would arrive around 2, 2 30.
That was all great information.
This is, I hope everybody has thatpen and paper out and are taking
notes on this 'cause Heidi's givingsome really great information.
Now, Heidi, let's assume thatthey're having their first look
(07:55):
take place, prior to the ceremony.
How would that timetablecontinue from there?
Yeah, so usually we like to allowabout half an hour for the First
Look, because it never goes asquickly as you think it's going to.
So that it gives us enoughtime to set up our couple and
to really capture the moment.
And a lot of times they like to shareprivate vows, which we find is a
(08:18):
huge trend right now, and we love it.
It gives them like they're, it'sa raw, emotional moment and it
really gives a chance to just sayeverything that's on their mind.
So, again, I'd say about halfan hour, 45 minutes for that.
And then, sometimes family is there.
If they are, we will roll right into that.
If not, we'll do, we'll start rightwith the bridal party and we would
(08:39):
love half an hour for the bridal party.
That's always great.
because it gives us a chance to breakoff with each of the girls and the
guys, as well as the full bridal party.
And then as family arrives,we can jump right into family.
Worst case scenario that canbe done during cocktail hour,
right after the ceremony.
Just because some guests arrive late.
Grandma June's only comingto the ceremony, so we have
(09:00):
to wait until she's there.
So we're very flexible, but typicallyI'd say about half an hour for a bridal
party and another half an hour for family.
and then obviously halfan hour for the couple.
Something I know I like to make abig deal out of with our couples,
especially when they have the First Look.
You need to catch your breath, andhaving a break is absolutely important.
(09:21):
So, relaxing, going into that bridalsuite, being alone for a little while.
Just the two of you, nobodyelse, just the two of you.
So you could soak in those moments,that have already happened and
get ready for the rest of the way.
So we've just explained what exactly isa wedding timeline and why you need one.
Plus you learned about morningpreparation and pre ceremony photography.
(09:43):
Now, Heidi, let's get your social media.
Sure you could find me on Facebook, atHeidi Hanson Photography on Instagram
at Heidi Hanson Photo and online atHeidi Hanson Photography dot com.
Coming up next wedding ceremonyand reception timeline.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the Stress Free WeddingPlanning Community and ask away.
(10:04):
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam
and subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun and unforgettable wedding.
Experience the magic of your SpecialDay with Fitzner Productions.
(10:26):
Our premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory candidly and authentically
creating stunning high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
(10:49):
ceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi-location
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
(11:10):
and now it's time for my favorite segment.
It's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Typically, there's something thatwill go wrong at a wedding, but it's
so minute, it really doesn't matter.
Your family and friends don't knowwhat the plan was for the day.
So if something should go wrong,just roll with it and have a great
(11:32):
time and just keep that smile on yourface, dance the night away, and enjoy
what's happening in front of you.
Remember, they'll only rememberhow much fun that they had,
especially if cake is involved.
And that's another WeddingTip from Sal and Sam.
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
(11:53):
Join the group for free.
Heidi Hanson Photography, unhappy,a little unorthodox, sometimes
silly, with lots of candid.
Hi, this is Heidi fromHeidi Hanson Photography,
www.HeidiHansonPhotography.com.
I like being goofy with my couples,making them laugh, and overall just
having a blast on their wedding day.
Every wedding day is different, andthat is what keeps my job super awesome.
I serve as Connecticut and New York.
(12:14):
You can find me onwww.heidihansonphotography.com
and also on social media.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutMaster Your Wedding Timeline, revealing
the secrets to a hassle-free wedding day.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
And I'm Heidi from HeidiHanson Photography.
And I'm Sal From AfterHours events of New England.
We've already explained your weddingtimeline, what morning preparations
(12:36):
are, and what pre photography is.
Remember, when having a detailed timeline,it is important to be prepared for
slight variations, build in buffer timebetween major events to reduce stress.
Now, we'll talk about the ceremony timing.
There are three basic start times foryour typical ceremony, and as Heidi would
(12:59):
agree, the most popular was probably theafternoon, three to five slot, right?
Yes, absolutely A good majority ofweddings start between that time.
So typically then the first time slot isthe morning time slot between 10 and 11.
Afternoon is between three andfive, and the evening is between six
and seven, especially for you aredoing a traditional Jewish wedding.
(13:23):
So, Heidi, based on those time slots forthe ceremony, we're not gonna go into
detail what happens in the ceremony,but why are those three time slots the
most important part of the timeline?
Well, the a morning timeline, amorning wedding is definitely, you're
gonna, you're gonna be starting early.
Vendors are starting early,hair and makeup is starting.
(13:44):
Probably at like five in the morning.
So that's definitely something thatyou need to let all your guests
know, and your bridal party beforethey agree to be in the wedding.
Let them know, "Hey, you'regonna be up really early."
All right.
We've taken care of that whole ceremonything, now we have to get to the fun part.
Let's talk about the reception flow.
So the reception typically comes afterthe ceremony is done in most cases.
(14:10):
The very first thing is the cocktail hour.
Now, Heidi, based on our timeline,what time span is that cocktail hour?
So a cocktail hour istypically an actual hour.
Depending upon what venue you'reat, sometimes it can be an hour and
a half, a little bit more flexible,but typically it's about an hour.
And during that time, your guests.
Start eating, drinking, mingling.
(14:32):
You're doing the rest of yourportraits that you didn't get
to do before your ceremony.
and then typically your photographerwill spend about 10, 15 minutes
with you because now you'll haveyour rings, you'll be very, like,
you'll be even more happier.
A lot of the stress will bemelting away because you did it.
So that would be, if we startedthe ceremony at five, we're talking
(14:53):
anywhere from five 30 to six 30for the start of the cocktail hour.
Right?
Yes, correct.
It's about an hour long.
Yes.
Ok, so the next thing to happenthen would be the introductions,
and that would be about what time?
So you gotta allow your gueststime to find their seats and
to go to the bar one more time.
(15:13):
so typically I would sayintroductions would be about 6 45.
Okay.
So Sal, this is something that we liketo do, is to have the First Dance first.
So, right after the cocktail hour,just when the introductions are
starting, do the First Dance, why?
So having the First Dance rightaway is for a couple good reasons.
One, the groom, for instance, is dressedand looks sharp and everything is perfect.
(15:38):
And for our bride, her makeupis just the way she wants it.
Everything looks fresh.
The hair is perfect.
Let's get that out of the way right away.
Also, say if something does go wrongwithin the dinner section of the
reception, what you have to do is beable to fill it in with something.
So DJs, we would usually put in amusic set and have people dance.
(15:59):
So we can't do that if we haven't donethat First Dance yet, 'cause traditionally
First Dance happens first, then anyother dancing would happen later.
So it's just good to getit out of the right away.
And then typically the speechesand toasts happen next.
But Heidi, I know some peoplelike to do the toasts and
speeches after the meal as well.
(16:19):
Yeah.
and some of them will incorporatethem in between each course when,
everything's being cleared away.
So, it depends on how many speechesyou have, and we've seen an uptick
on the length of them, recently.
So, our best advice is thatif you are gonna do a long
speech, do it at the rehearsal.
Good point.
Good point.
So let's get back to the timeline then.
(16:40):
So we're talking about seveno'clock now to maybe eight o'clock.
We've done, the speeches, the FirstDance, and then we go into, the dinner.
Now, the dinner is something thatwe can't tell you, or even on the
timeline, how long that's gonna be.
It can be an hour and a half totwo hours to even three hours.
(17:03):
So that's something that you haveto speak to your venue and find out.
Based on the amount of guests thatyou have and the table settings,
how long do they estimate?
And then you've gotta kind of buildthat, that in, to your timeline and
obviously work with your DJ because,as Sal said before, if we need to do
something, during the dinner or at someother time, we can certainly do that.
(17:26):
So then the cake cutting, wouldbe typically next, and that's
between eight and maybe eight 30?
Yeah, that sounds about right.
Usually we like to try to do thatright after dinner 'cause guests
are ready to dance and party.
So you cut the cake.
That's kind of like, "Hey,let's get this going now".
Yep.
And Sal, you agree with that?
(17:47):
W would you do all the parentdances and anniversary dances,
et cetera, after the cake?
I'm finding, Heidi mentioned upticksand an uptick for is they're having
the parent dances right after the FirstDance, to kind of get them outta the way.
So you do remember, you have theoption of doing it in a couple places.
It either could be immediatelyfollowing the First Dance, or it
(18:08):
could be towards the end of the meal.
Typically, if you're doing it the endof the meal, I always say cake cutting
first, so that we could draw everyone'sattention to the dance floor for the
parent dances and move your way on.
Anniversary Dance is I knowsometimes DJ's will do that as
the first dance of the night.
I believe you've already had enoughslow song it time party going.
Do it where a slow song would'vehappened naturally within the dancing,
(18:32):
this way your just not taking up toomuch time up front and people wondering
when this thing is gonna start.
Yeah.
So now the party and the celebration,happens directly after that.
So you've got maybe 8 30, 8 45, 9 o'clockuntil maybe 11, the end of the evening.
Now, there's a couple of thingsthat you should be aware of
(18:52):
that you can put into that.
If there's a shuttle that needsto leave, you need that to be
in the timeline, and you needobviously the DJ to, announce that.
Are you finding, Heidi, thatthere's a lot of these announcements
for shuttles or transportation?
Yes, absolutely.
Couples are really trying tomake the whole wedding experience
(19:12):
perfect for their guests, so theyare including transportation.
So definitely, make sureyou have those times.
A lot of them will include them withtheir invitation, but definitely, let
your DJ know, have that announcement made.
You know, Heidi, something I'm findinga lot nowadays with my couples is they
don't always want that announced 'causethey, they're afraid it's hurting night.
(19:33):
I've had some where they had a signthat actually gives you the times that,
the shuttle will be there and leaving.
or yeah, as you mentioned, they'rehaving it on their invitation.
Most of the time they're havingit on their website, so they u
usually take care of the olderguests first, letting everyone know
throughout the night, "Hey, remembernine 30 our first shuttles there".
Because they just don't want thatto be announced because they're
afraid killing the party a little.
(19:55):
So everyone's different.
Yeah, absolutely.
We've had couples that leavelike little notes at the bar too.
'cause everyone's always at the bar.
And, and I'm glad you mentioned the barbecause one of the final items on the,
timeline should be when the bar closes,and we recommend about a half an hour
before the end of the event so peoplehave got time to grab a final drink and,
(20:16):
get the hell outta here as they say.
Yes.
And then obviously your timeline needsto have the end of the event, if there's
any cleanup that needs to be done andhow the couple are are going home.
All that should be on your, timeline.
So hopefully that's, helpedyou out a little bit.
Hope you had enough chanceto, jot details down.
(20:37):
If not, listen to this a secondtime and, grab all the details.
Speaking of details, Heidi,what is your social media?
My website is heidi Hansonphotography dot com.
Instagram at Heidi Hanson Photo andFacebook at Heidi Hanson Photography.
Great.
Thanks for joining us.
We appreciate it.
Thank you Heidi.
Creating the perfect weddingtimeline is an art form that balances
(21:00):
logistics, emotion, and personal style.
While these guidelines providea solid framework, remember that
your wedding should ultimatelyreflect your unique love story.
Collaborate closely with your weddingplanner, photographer, and vendors to
craft a timeline that feels naturaland allows you to fully enjoy every
magical moment of your special day.
(21:21):
So there you have it.
We've just provided some insidertips on how to master your wedding
day timeline, revealing the secretsto a hassle-free wedding day.
Are you ready to transform yourwedding day from a potential logistical
puzzle into an unforgettable,perfectly timed celebration of love?
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sam,
(21:45):
or our community of stress-freeengaged couples and wedding experts to
answer any wedding related questions,join us over in the Stress-free
Wedding Planning Facebook group.
Once you're in, go ahead and share yourconcerns and worries, and we'll let you
know if you are on the right track orif there's something we need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
go to Facebook and search for theStress-free Wedding Planning community.
(22:09):
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
Remember to do something nice for someonetoday, and if you can't do something
nice for yourself, we'll catch you then.
Caio!
Thank you for listening to this edition.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until
next time, it's TTFM Tata For Now,the Stress-free Wedding Planning
(22:33):
Podcast is produced and copyrighted byAtmosphere Productions in association
with after hours events of New England.
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