You’ve imagined this day for years. The butterflies as you slip into your dress. The way your partner’s eyes light up when they see you for the first time. The laughter, the happy tears, the golden-hour portraits that will hang on your walls for decades.

But right now? It feels like there are a million things to do and no clear place to start.

That’s where your Wedding Timeline comes in.

More than just a checklist, this is your wedding roadmap—your guide to making sure every little detail comes together seamlessly so that when the big day arrives, you’re not stressing over seating charts… you’re soaking up every moment.

Want to make this even easier? We’ve created FREE wedding planning checklist template to help you map out every moment from “Yes” to “I do.” 

From locking in your dream venue to that final twirl on the dance floor, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do and when – so you can plan with confidence and focus on what really matters: celebrating your love, stress-free.

The Wedding Planning Timeline: What to Do and When

Planning a wedding is equal parts excitement and organization. There are countless details to consider, but the key to keeping your stress levels low? A structured, step-by-step timeline that ensures everything comes together effortlessly.

12+ Months Before: Laying the Foundation

You just got engaged. Cue the happy dances and champagne toasts 🍾. But before you dive into the fun details (hello, cake tastings!), the first few decisions you make will set the tone for the entire planning process.

Insure Your Engagement Ring

It may not be the most romantic task, but it’s one of the most important. Your ring is not only a symbol of your love – it’s also a significant investment. Get it insured early to protect against loss, theft, or damage. A quick call to your home or renter’s insurance provider can often add it as a rider, or you can opt for specialty jewelry insurance.

Determine Your Budget

Before you start booking every dreamy vendor you see on Instagram (we’ve all been there 🙃), sit down with your partner and talk budget. What matters most? An epic venue? A live band that keeps the dance floor packed all night? Prioritize those non-negotiables first!

Draft Your Guest List

It might feel early, but your guest count determines everything – venue size, catering costs, and how many chairs your Great Aunt Susan will insist on rearranging at the reception. Start with a rough list and adjust as needed!

Decide on Formality & Theme

Before diving into décor, take a moment to envision your wedding style. Do you want a romantic garden wedding, a sleek city soirée, or a destination celebration? Your theme will guide everything from attire to floral design. Start gathering inspiration (Pinterest boards, anyone?) and think about what feels most you.

Hire a Wedding Planner (If Needed)

If the thought of juggling a million emails, contracts, and vendor timelines makes you want to elope immediately – breathe. A wedding planner can be a total lifesaver. If spreadsheets and logistics aren’t your love language, hand it off to a pro so you can actually enjoy being engaged (instead of drowning in to-do lists).

Tour & Book Your Venue

Your venue isn’t just a backdrop – it’s the stage for your love story. The place where you’ll say ‘I do,’ steal golden-hour kisses, and dance under the stars. From the moment you walk in, you should feel it in your gut – this is the one.

But dream venues? They book up fast. If yours is on your vision board, don’t wait – lock it in ASAP (especially for those coveted weekend dates!)

Consider Wedding Insurance

I know, I know—wedding insurance isn’t exactly the most exciting part of planning (it’s no cake tasting), but trust me, it’s worth it. Think of it as a safety net in case of the unexpected – venue mishaps, extreme weather, or a vendor who mysteriously disappears right before the big day. A small investment now = major peace of mind later!

Research & Book Your Caterer

Food isn’t just food at your wedding—it’s an experience. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant plated dinner, a laid-back taco bar, or a lineup of your favorite food trucks, your catering choice sets the vibe for the entire night.

If your venue doesn’t include catering, start researching now. And don’t forget the best part—tastings!

10-11 Months Before: Key Vendor Bookings

Now that the big-picture details are set, it’s time to start locking in the vendors who will bring your wedding vision to life. Photographers, videographers, and bands? The good ones book up FAST.  If you have your heart set on a dream vendor (hi, let’s chat! 😉), don’t wait. Lock them in early so you’re not scrambling later or settling for someone who doesn’t quite fit your vision.

Choose a Color Palette & Overall Design

Before diving into décor decisions, nail down your color palette and general aesthetic. Are you envisioning soft pastels and romantic florals? Or maybe bold jewel tones with modern touches? This choice will influence everything—from bridesmaid dresses to table settings—so take some time to explore mood boards and inspiration that reflect your style as a couple.

Here are a couple of boutiques in Philadelphia

Bella Bridesmaids – Philadelphia

L&H Bridal

Camille La Vie – Bridesmaid & Formalwear

Hire High-Demand Vendors (Photographer, Videographer, Band/DJ)

Your wedding photos are the one thing (besides your marriage, of course 😉) that lasts forever. So choose a photographer you love—not just for their work, but for their vibe. You’ll be spending your whole day with them, after all! If I sound like your kind of person, let’s chat. Otherwise, book whoever makes you feel your best—just do it early, because the good ones go fast! 

If you’re unsure about a DJ vs. live band, consider the vibe you want for your reception. A DJ can mix a variety of songs and keep the energy high, while a live band brings a unique, interactive feel. Either way, make sure to check reviews, request sample performances, and discuss must-play (or must-avoid!) songs.

Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress

Your wedding dress is the outfit. The one you’ll remember forever. The one that makes you feel like this is really happening! Dresses typically take 6-9 months to be made and altered, so don’t wait too long to find the one. (And yes, you’ll probably cry when you do. It’s normal. We support happy tears here. 🥹)

Here are a couple of our favourite wedding dress shops: 

1. L&H Bridal

A Philadelphia institution since 1975, L&H Bridal offers a high-touch, family-owned experience with a wide range of gowns for every body and style. From traditional silhouettes to contemporary couture, their collection is expansive and expertly curated. They also offer alterations in-house, which means your entire journey — from first fitting to final adjustments — is handled under one roof.

Location: 9355 Old Bustleton Ave, Philadelphia, PA
lhbridal.com

2. Lovely Bride Philadelphia

For the modern, effortlessly cool bride. Lovely Bride is known for its intimate, one-on-one appointments and its exclusive designer selection — think Sarah Seven, Rue De Seine, Made With Love, and Alexandra Grecco. Their Rittenhouse location offers a relaxed, editorial-feeling space that makes dress shopping feel like a celebration.

Location: 237 Market St, Philadelphia, PA
lovelybride.com

Book Hotel Room Blocks for Guests

If you’re hosting out-of-town guests, reserving a block of hotel rooms at a discounted rate makes travel planning easier for them. Look for hotels near your venue and consider a mix of price points so guests can choose what works best for them. Many hotels offer perks (like free shuttles!) for booking multiple rooms, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.

Take Engagement Photos

If you haven’t booked an engagement session yet – what are you waiting for? This is your chance to get comfy in front of the camera, shake off any awkward “what do I do with my hands?” moments, and just have fun with your person.

Bonus? You’ll have gorgeous photos for save-the-dates, invitations, or even that oversized framed print you know your parents will want. 

8-9 Months Before: Save-the-Dates and Attire Decisions

By now, you’ve booked the big-ticket vendors and set the foundation for your wedding day. Now, it’s time to finalize your wedding party’s attire, send out save-the-dates, and start diving into some of the creative details.

Send Out Save-the-Dates

Save-the-dates should go out about 8-9 months before the wedding (or earlier if you’re planning a dreamy destination celebration). Bonus points if you use one of your engagement photos—nothing like a little teaser to get your guests hyped!

What to Include:

• Your wedding date (obviously!)
• The city & venue (no need for full details yet!)
• A link to your wedding website for travel info
• The note: “Formal invitation to follow”

Select Bridesmaid Dresses & Bridal Accessories

Now that you have your color palette, it’s time to choose bridesmaid dresses that complement your wedding style.

• Will everyone wear the same dress, or do you prefer mix-and-match styles?
• Consider fabrics & colors that will photograph beautifully in different lighting.
• If ordering from a bridal boutique, factor in 4-6 months for delivery & alterations!

Don’t forget to start shopping for bridal accessories like veils, jewelry, and shoes. Even the smallest details contribute to your final look, so give yourself time to find pieces that make you feel amazing.

Register for Gifts

Your guests can’t wait to shower you with love – and gifts! So, make it super easy for them by setting up your wedding registry now. 

Mix it up with options at different price points, and why not throw in some experiential gifts like honeymoon funds, travel adventures, or even a wine subscription (if you’ve already got the household basics covered)?

Register at 2-3 different stores to give everyone plenty of ways to shop, whether they’re online or in-person.

Meet With Potential Florists

Florals bring your wedding vision to life, so meeting with florists early is key! Start gathering inspiration and think about:

• Your bouquet – Romantic and overflowing? Simple and structured?
• Ceremony decor – Will you need an altar arrangement, aisle petals, or floral arches?
• Reception flowers – Centerpieces, table garlands, hanging installations?

Florists book up fast, so schedule consultations early. And here’s a pro tip: ask about seasonal flowers to get the most gorgeous blooms and maximize budget!

6-7 Months Before: Finalizing Big Details

By now, the big pieces of your wedding are in place—venue, vendors, and guest list check! Now, it’s time to focus on the little details that make your wedding feel like you. From cake tastings to honeymoon planning, this phase is full of the good stuff!

Hire Ceremony Musicians

Music isn’t just background noise—it’s the soundtrack to your love story. Whether you’re dreaming of a violinist playing as you walk down the aisle (cue the tears!), an acoustic guitarist strumming your favorite song, or a full band setting the mood, now’s the time to lock in your musicians.

Not sure what to choose? Start with these key moments:

• Processional – The song that plays as you walk down the aisle (deep breaths, it’s happening!).
• Recessional – The celebratory tune as you make your grand exit as newlyweds.
• Prelude – Soft background music to set the scene as guests arrive and find their seats.

Whatever you pick, make it you. These are the songs that will bring you right back to this moment for years to come.

Order Rental Items

Your venue might come with tables and chairs, but let’s be real—do they actually match your vibe? Rentals give you the freedom to level up your wedding aesthetic and make your space feel totally you.

Some key upgrades to consider:

• Chairs – Wooden cross-back for rustic romance, chic ghost chairs for a modern edge, or something totally unique.
• Linens – Textured fabrics, soft draping, or bold statement colors to add dimension.
• Lounge Seating – Cozy sofas for cocktail hour (because heels + standing for hours = not a vibe).
•  Lighting Installations – Chandeliers, string lights, or custom neon signs to set the perfect mood.

A few stylish swaps can completely transform your space—so dream big!

Hire an Officiant

Your officiant isn’t just the person who makes it official—they set the entire tone for your ceremony. Whether you’re choosing a close friend, a pro officiant, or a religious leader, pick someone who feels right for you as a couple.

If you’re having a friend or family member officiate, double-check your state’s laws (some require them to be legally ordained – because, yes, even Uncle Mike needs paperwork to make it legit). If you’re working with a professional, schedule a chat to talk through your ceremony vibe and any personal touches.

Hire a Lighting Technician

Lighting is one of the most overlooked details that makes the biggest impact. The right lighting can completely transform your wedding space, taking it from pretty to jaw-dropping.

If your venue doesn’t offer in-house lighting, consider bringing in a pro to design the ambiance. Uplighting, soft candlelight, twinkle lights—it’s all about creating a warm, romantic glow that makes everything feel more intimate.

Plan Your Honeymoon

With all the wedding excitement, it’s easy to push honeymoon planning to the back burner—but trust me, you’ll thank yourself later if you book everything now.

If you’re heading somewhere international, check that your passport is up to date and research whether you’ll need a visa. It’s also a good idea to make dinner reservations for any bucket-list restaurants or experiences you don’t want to miss!

Book the Rehearsal Dinner Venue

Before the “I do’s,” there’s a little pre-wedding tradition that brings everyone together—the rehearsal dinner 🥂.

After you’ve walked through the ceremony with your wedding party (a.k.a. the official “run-through” to make sure no one trips down the aisle), it’s time to celebrate with your nearest and dearest.

Whether it’s a formal sit-down meal or a casual gathering, this dinner is all about thanking the people who have supported you.

4-5 Months Before: The Fun Details

Schedule Your Hair & Makeup Trials

Your wedding day is going to be an emotional rollercoaster (in the best way possible). The last thing you need is a makeup mishap or a hairstyle that looks gorgeous in a Pinterest photo but doesn’t quite work on you.

This is why a hair and makeup trial is a must. It’s your chance to test out your look, tweak anything that doesn’t feel quite right, and ensure that on the big day, you feel completely confident.

Schedule Cake Tastings & Choose Your Wedding Cake

This might just be the best part of wedding planning. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to sample flavors, explore design ideas, and place your order. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic tiered cake, a modern minimalist design, or a totally unique dessert table, your cake should be as delicious as it is beautiful.

If you can’t decide on just one flavor, go for multiple tiers with different flavors—it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Buy Wedding Bands

Your wedding rings aren’t just jewelry— they’re the one thing you’ll wear every single day as a reminder of this moment, this commitment, and your love story. So, make sure they’re not just beautiful, but also comfortable (because no one wants a too-tight ring situation mid-honeymoon).

Take time to explore different metals, widths, and engraving options. Want to add a personal touch? Engrave your wedding date, initials, or even an inside joke only the two of you understand—because little details like that make it yours.

Book Guest Transportation (If Needed)

If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, providing transportation makes things easier for guests (and keeps the timeline on track!).

Think about:

• Shuttles or party buses for a seamless experience.
• Ride-share credits if you want to give guests flexibility.
• Classic cars or vintage trolleys for a stylish getaway!

2-3 Months Before: Invitations and Personal Touches

We’re getting close! At this stage, your wedding is starting to feel very real. RSVPs are rolling in, final details are taking shape, and the little personal touches are coming together. This is where you refine, finalize, and add the magic.

Send Out Wedding Invitations

It’s officially time to get those invitations in the mail! While your guests might already know the date, this is when you set the tone for your wedding day—from the first impression of the design to the excitement of seeing it arrive in their mailbox.

Make sure to include:

• The date, time, and location of your ceremony and reception.
• RSVP deadline (typically 3-4 weeks before the wedding).
• Dress code, if applicable.

If you have a wedding website include a link for extra details like hotel blocks, registry info, and FAQs.

If you’re working with a calligrapher for addressing envelopes, make sure to give them your final list at least a few weeks in advance.

Plan Wedding Favors & Gift Bags

Your guests are taking time out of their busy lives to celebrate with you—this is your chance to thank them with a small, thoughtful favor.

This doesn’t have to be extravagant. A simple, personal touch goes a long way.Some ideas couples love:

• Mini bottles of champagne (cheers to that! 🥂)
• Handwritten notes for each guest (a little extra work, but so meaningful).
• Something locally sourced—coffee beans, honey, or candles.
• A late-night snack for the road (think cookies or gourmet popcorn!).

For out-of-town guests, welcome bags are a great touch. Include things like water bottles, snacks, a weekend itinerary, and maybe even a local map or a handwritten welcome note.

Write Your Vows

If you’re writing your own vows, now’s the time to sit down, get reflective, and put your love into words. No pressure—but these are the words you’ll remember forever.

Not sure where to start? Try this:

1. Think about the moment you knew your partner was the one.
2. What’s one thing they do every day that makes you love them even more?
3. Make a simple, heartfelt promise. (Or a few!)

Most importantly—be yourself. Your vows don’t have to sound like a poetry book or a rom-com script. They just need to be you.

Finalize Ceremony Readings

If you’re incorporating readings into your ceremony, now’s the time to choose them and confirm who will be reading. Whether you’re drawn to classic poetry, song lyrics, or something deeply personal, make sure it reflects your love story.

If you’re struggling to decide, read them out loud! Sometimes, something that looks beautiful on paper doesn’t flow as well when spoken.

Do a Floral Mock-Up with Your Florist

By now, you’ve already chosen your flowers. But have you seen them come together yet? A floral mock-up is a chance to preview your bouquet, centerpieces, or archway arrangements before the big day.

Confirm Guest Meal Choices with Your Caterer

With RSVPs coming in, it’s time to finalize your guest count and meal selections. If your menu includes options, double-check that your caterer has dietary preferences and allergy requests noted.

This is also a great time to confirm the timeline for dinner service—you’ll want to make sure everything runs smoothly between speeches, first dances, and courses being served.

Send Rehearsal Dinner Invitations

Your rehearsal dinner is your last big event before the wedding day itself. Whether it’s a casual backyard gathering or a full sit-down dinner, now’s the time to send invites or confirm the details with your guests.

This doesn’t have to be a formal invitation—a simple email or digital invite works perfectly. Just make sure everyone knows:

• Where and when it’s happening.
• What time to arrive (especially for those involved in the ceremony rehearsal).
• If there’s a dress code or theme (casual? semi-formal?).

Start Crafting Any DIY Decor

If you’re tackling DIY projects—table numbers, signage, escort cards—bless your heart. Set aside a weekend, grab your wedding party, turn on a killer playlist, and get them DONE now. The last thing you want is to be gluing name cards at midnight the week before your wedding!

1 Month Before: Finalizing Everything

• Creating a seating chart and ordering place cards
• Completing final venue walkthroughs and breaking in wedding shoes
• Assembling gift bags and tipping vendors

You’re one month away from the best day of your life (cue the happy tears!). At this point, the big things are handled, and it’s all about fine-tuning the details, double-checking logistics, and making sure everything is in place. Think of this as the home stretch – you’re almost there!

You’re one month away from the best day of your life (cue the happy tears!). At this point, the big things are handled, and it’s all about fine-tuning the details, double-checking logistics, and making sure everything is in place. Think of this as the home stretch—you’re almost there!

Create Your Seating Chart

Ah, the great seating chart debate. Do you let your college friends relive their wildest nights together, or strategically spread them out for minimal chaos? What about Aunt Linda and Uncle Bob, who refuse to be in the same room? Buckle up—this part of planning is a puzzle. But don’t worry, you’ve got this (and worst case, the open bar will smooth things over!).

Use an online seating chart tool like TopTablePlanner or RSPVIFY to easily move people around before finalizing your layout.

Do a Final Venue Walkthrough

This is your last chance to see everything in person before the big day. Walk through the space with your planner, coordinator, or venue manager and go over:

• Where key moments will happen (ceremony setup, cocktail hour, dance floor).
• The backup plan for weather (if your wedding is outdoors!).
• Where vendors will set up—florist, DJ/band, caterers.
• Load-in and load-out logistics for rentals, decor, and personal items.

If something doesn’t feel quite right, now is the time to make adjustments.

Break in Your Wedding Shoes

The best wedding shoes are the ones that are beautiful AND comfortable. But let’s be real—most heels need a little breaking in.

Wear them around the house for a few hours (or even to a dinner date!) so they mold to your feet before the big day. And if you’re rocking sky-high heels, pack a comfy backup pair—your feet will thank you when it’s time to hit the dance floor!

Assemble Gift Bags & Wedding Party Gifts

If you’re giving your guests welcome bags, put them together now so they’re ready for delivery. This is also a good time to wrap up gifts for your wedding party—whether it’s personalized jewelry, monogrammed keepsakes, or something fun that reflects your friendship.

Confirm Final Headcounts & Timeline with Vendors

The last thing you want is a surprise on your wedding day (like a missing vendor or the wrong floral arrangements). This is the time to triple-check all final details with your vendors, including:

• Wedding day timeline – Confirm when vendors are arriving and any last-minute changes.
• DJ/Band song list – Make sure they have your must-play and do-not-play lists.
• Catering final headcount – Provide the final number of meals needed.
• Photography shot list – If there are specific family portraits you want, send a list to your photographer!

Put Together Tip Envelopes for Vendors

Many vendors (caterers, DJs, hairstylists, etc.) appreciate cash tips, and the best way to avoid scrambling at the last minute is to prepare tip envelopes in advance. Hand them off to a trusted bridesmaid or your planner so they can distribute them on the day.

Final Week: The Last-Minute Checklist

Deep breath. You made it! The final countdown is ON, and while it may feel like your to-do list is never-ending, here’s your permission to pause. Take a walk, get your nails done, or blast your favorite hype song. You’ve done the hard work—now it’s time to enjoy every second.

Pick Up Your Marriage License

Without this, all the planning in the world won’t make it official! Every state has different requirements, but most require you to apply for your marriage license in person with valid IDs. 

Some things to double-check:

• Waiting periods – Some states require a few days between getting the license and the wedding day.
• Expiration dates – Some licenses expire within 30-60 days.
• Who needs to sign it? – Your officiant and witnesses will need to sign it after the ceremony.

If possible, give the license to your officiant ahead of time so it doesn’t get misplaced in the wedding day whirlwind!

Pack Your Wedding Day Bag

Consider this your Wedding Day Survival Kit. Safety pins, blotting papers, Advil, a snack (because no one wants a hangry bride). Trust me—this tiny kit will save the day when you least expect it.

Steam & Prep Your Wedding Attire

No one wants a wrinkled wedding dress or a suit jacket with creases. Now is the time to steam everything—dress, veil, bridesmaid dresses, groomsmen attire, even ties and pocket squares.

If you’re traveling for a destination wedding, pack your dress in a garment bag with tissue paper between folds to minimize wrinkles. Many hotels offer steaming services—just ask in advance!

Confirm the Final Timeline with Your Wedding Party

Everyone should know where to be and when—especially your wedding party and immediate family. This avoids last-minute confusion (or frantic texts asking, “Where do I go?!”).

Send a quick group message with:

• The ceremony & reception timeline.
• When & where to arrive for hair and makeup.
• Who’s responsible for what (like handing out programs or helping with setup).

Take Some Time for Yourself

Between the timeline checks and last-minute logistics, don’t forget to take a moment to just be. Whether it’s a solo coffee date, a long walk, a yoga session, or just curling up with a good book, give yourself some space to breathe.

And most importantly? Get a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow is your day, and you deserve to wake up feeling rested, excited, and ready to soak up every single second.

The Wedding Day Timeline: How the Day Unfolds

It’s finally here. The day you’ve dreamed about, planned for, and counted down to. The one where you step into your dress, see your partner at the end of the aisle, and dance the night away surrounded by your favorite people.

Your wedding day should feel joyful, not stressful. That’s where a solid timeline comes in. When every moment has its place, you can fully immerse yourself in the magic.

Here’s how your day will unfold—from those quiet, excited moments in the morning to the sparkler exit at night.

Getting Ready and First Look

Your wedding morning is a mix of excitement, anticipation, and just a few happy tears. Whether you’re sipping champagne with your bridal party or taking a quiet moment to yourself, this is the start of it all.

Getting Ready Timeline (4-5 Hours Before the Ceremony)

• Hair and makeup begins (bride first or last? Your call!)
• Bridesmaids/groomsmen get dressed
• Final dress steaming & touch-ups
• Exchange letters or gifts with your partner (cue the emotions!)

First Look (If You’re Doing One) — 2-3 Hours Before the Ceremony

Worried a first look will ruin the aisle moment? Let me tell you—it won’t. In fact, it might just be the best decision you make. It gives you a private, breath-stealing moment together before the whirlwind of the day kicks in. Plus, more time for gorgeous portraits = more time on the dance floor later!

The Main Event

This is the moment. The deep breath before you walk down the aisle. The feeling of your hands in theirs as you say “I do.”

Ceremony Timing (30-45 minutes)

Most ceremonies follow this general flow:

1. Guests Arrive & Get Seated (Have ushers help with seating.)
2. Processional Begins (Bridal party, flower girls, then you!)
3. Vows & Rings (take your time here—soak it in!)
4. First Kiss & Recessional (You’re officially married!)
5. Guests head to cocktail hour while you take family photos.

Make sure your ceremony musicians have a clear cue for when to start the processional music—you don’t want an awkward silence as you step out!

Cocktail Hour: Let the Celebration Begin!

You just said I do (!!!), and while you’re off soaking in those just-married golden-hour portraits, your guests are mingling, sipping on signature cocktails, and gearing up for an epic night ahead. 🍸✨

Here’s how to make cocktail hour feel just as fun as the reception:

• Live Music or a DJ? A string quartet adds romance, but an upbeat playlist keeps the energy high.
• Fun Guest Experiences – Think photo booths, a champagne tower, or interactive food stations (because everyone loves a DIY taco bar).
• Seating & Shade – For outdoor weddings, make sure guests have a comfy place to sip & chat without melting in the sun.

And if you skipped a first look, this is when you’ll be taking most of your couple + family portraits—so plan accordingly (and maybe grab a drink to-go!)

Reception Flow

Reception Flow (3-4 Hours):

It’s time to celebrate! Whether your reception is a formal plated dinner or a lively cocktail-style party, this is when the night truly begins.

• Grand Entrance – Your first big moment as newlyweds!
• First Dance – Just the two of you, soaking it all in.
• Dinner Service – Speeches, toasts, and great food.
• Parent Dances & Cake Cutting – Classic moments that bring all the feels.
• Dance Floor Opens! The party kicks into high gear.

If you’re worried about long-winded speeches, ask speakers to keep toasts under 3 minutes. Short, sweet, and heartfelt is always best!

Sunset Photos

Steal away for 15 minutes with your photographer to capture some golden-hour magic. These are some of the dreamiest, most romantic shots of the day – and a rare quiet moment to soak in the fact that you just got married!

Open Dancing & Last Call

At this point, the formalities are done, and the dance floor is packed. This is where the real fun happens!

Want to keep the energy up?

• Late-night snacks – Pizza, sliders, or a coffee bar for a second wind.
• Song request cards – Let guests help create the perfect playlist.
• Surprise entertainment – Think fire dancers, a live sax player, or an end-of-night confetti drop.

The Grand Exit: A Picture-Perfect Ending

The last song is playing, your feet are sore from dancing, and you’re riding the high of the best day ever. Now, it’s time for your grand exit—because every love story deserves a movie-worthy ending. Whether it’s sparklers lighting up the night, a flower petal toss straight out of a fairytale, or a vintage getaway car with your favorite song blasting, make this moment one to remember.

Post-Wedding Wrap-Up: What’s Next

You did it! You’re officially married. The confetti has settled, your feet are still sore from all the dancing, and you’re probably running on a mix of wedding day bliss and pure exhaustion.

But before you dive headfirst into newlywed life (or your honeymoon!), there are just a few final post-wedding details to wrap up.

Settle Vendor Payments & Gratuities

Even if you’ve pre-paid most vendors, there may still be outstanding balances or gratuities to distribute. If you assigned this task to a trusted friend or planner on the wedding day (smart move!), now’s the time to follow up and ensure everything was taken care of.

Who to Tip (if you haven’t already):

• Your wedding planner or day-of coordinator
• Hair and makeup artists
• Catering staff & bartenders
• DJ or live musicians
• Delivery/setup crew (florals, rentals, cake, etc.)

If a vendor went above and beyond, consider writing a glowing review—it’s one of the best ways to show your appreciation!

Relive the Magic: Wedding Photos & Videos

The moment your wedding day ends, you’ll be counting down the days until you see your photos. While most photographers take 6-8 weeks to deliver the full gallery, many send sneak peeks within a few days.

While you wait:

• Back up your digital sneak peeks (email them to yourself, save them in the cloud—just in case!).
• Start thinking about your wedding album. Do you want a classic book, a coffee table-style album, or a wall print?
• Share on social media! (Tag your photographer—they’ll love it!)

If you booked a videographer, ask when you can expect the highlight reel and full film.

Send Thank-You Notes

Your guests traveled, celebrated, and showered you with love (and gifts!), so now it’s time to send heartfelt thank-you notes.

Keep an extra copy of your wedding guest list with a column to track who sent what gift—it makes thank-you note writing so much easier!

Preserve Your Dress & Bouquet

If you want to keep your wedding dress in pristine condition (or maybe pass it down one day!), get it professionally cleaned and preserved ASAP. Most services recommend doing this within a month to prevent stains from setting.

Jet Off on Your Honeymoon (or Plan a Mini-Moon!)

If you’re leaving for your honeymoon right away, make sure all travel details are confirmed—passports, reservations, packing essentials.

Not heading out just yet? Plan a mini-moon! Even a weekend getaway or staycation can be the perfect way to unwind before settling back into reality.

Free wedding day timeline templates: 

Planning your wedding timeline doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—we’ve done the hard work for you!

Our FREE Wedding Day Timeline Templates will help you map out every moment, from getting ready in the morning to your grand exit at night. With a solid timeline in place, you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying every second of your wedding day.

https://www.canva.com/planners/templates/wedding-timeline

https://gdoc.io/wedding-timeline-templates

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I start planning my wedding?

Short answer? As early as possible.

Long answer? It depends on your wedding date, venue, and how elaborate your vision is. Most couples start planning 12-18 months in advance, but if you’re eyeing a popular venue during peak season, you may need to book even earlier.

What is the ideal wedding day timeline?

There’s no one right answer (every wedding is different!), but an ideal timeline ensures you’re never rushed and can actually enjoy your day.

A typical 6-8 hour wedding timeline looks something like this:

• Morning: Getting ready, first look, bridal party photos.
• Afternoon: Ceremony (~30-45 min).
• Cocktail Hour: Guests mingle while you take family/couple portraits.
• Reception: Dinner, toasts, dancing, and all the fun!
• Late Night: Open dance floor, cake cutting, grand exit.

If you want to see some examples, we’ve put together a collection of real wedding day timeline examples to help! And for those of you planning an afternoon ceremony take a look at our 4 PM ceremony timelines.

How can I avoid last-minute stress on my wedding day?

First things first—breathe. The wedding is just one day, but the memories last a lifetime. The key to staying stress-free? Preparation, delegation, and a little bit of self-care.

Here’s what helps:

• Finalize everything a week before—don’t leave decisions for the last minute.
• Hand off tasks to a trusted friend, planner, or family member. (Your only job? Enjoy the day!)
• Pack a wedding day emergency kit (blotting papers, safety pins, Advil—you never know!).
• Give yourself buffer time between events—just in case anything runs behind.
• Take 5 minutes with your partner alone during the reception to soak it all in.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is the moment you say “I do.” Everything else? It’s just part of the story.

Your Wedding, Your Timeline, Your Memories

At the end of the day, wedding planning isn’t about having the perfect day—it’s about creating a day that feels authentically YOU. The quiet, excited morning. The way your partner looks at you as you walk down the aisle. The dance floor moments, the golden-hour glow, the hand squeezes that say ‘we did it.’
So don’t stress the little things. Your day will be beautiful, because it’s yours. Take a deep breath, trust the plan, and soak in every second. You’ve got this.