Planning your wedding day can be a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation, and, let’s face it, a bit of stress. But don’t worry, friends! We’re here to guide you through the perfect timeline for your special day, ensuring everything runs smoothly from sunrise to sunset. Before you begin creating your own wedding day timeline, it can be helpful to see an example of one to start. Then, you can tweak and customize it to fit the specifics of your day!
The example wedding day timeline below is for a wedding where you get ready, have the ceremony, and reception all at the same venue. This style of timeline will have less time between events since you don’t have to account for travel time from your getting ready venue to the ceremony venue and finally to the reception venue. If you are getting ready off-site or having your ceremony and reception at different venues, you can build in that extra time as needed.
8:00 AM – Rise and Shine
Start your day bright and early with a light and healthy breakfast and a refreshing shower. Take this time to pamper yourself and soak in the excitement of the day ahead. If you’re staying at a hotel or getting ready off-site, be sure to double-check your bags and make sure you have everything you need to head to the venue to get ready with your wedding party in style.
Photo by: Jessica Gunderson Photography
9:00 AM – Hair and Makeup
Gather your bridal party at the venue for hair and makeup. Trust your beauty team to work their magic and enhance your natural beauty. Don’t forget to bring along some snacks and ask the venue for some bubbly to keep the energy high and the pre-wedding jitters at bay.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
After hours of primping and pampering, it’s time for a well-deserved lunch break. Keep it light and nutritious to keep your energy levels up for the rest of the day. Consider ordering in or having a picnic-style lunch with your bridal party – just be sure to avoid anything that could stain your wedding attire!
1:00 PM – Get Dressed
Return to your getting-ready space and slip into your wedding attire. Take your time to savor this moment with your bridesmaids, mothers, or anyone special who is helping you get ready. Don’t forget to capture some candid photos of the pre-ceremony excitement – these memories will be treasured for years to come.
Photo by: Cait ‘N’ Her Camera
2:00 PM – First Look
If you’ve opted for a first look, now’s the time to share that special moment with whoever you choose. Some go for a first look with their bridesmaids, dad, mom, and/or partner before the ceremony. Whether it’s a private reveal or a grand gesture, take this opportunity to soak in each other’s love and excitement. Trust us, this moment will be one of the highlights of your day.
3:00 PM – Ceremony Setup
While you’re enjoying your first look, your wedding coordinator and vendors will be hard at work setting up for the ceremony. Double-check that everything is in place and running smoothly, from the seating arrangements to the sound system. Take a deep breath and prepare to walk down the aisle to your happily ever after.
4:00 PM – Ceremony Begins
It’s time to say “I do” surrounded by your nearest and dearest. Take a moment to pause and soak in the love and joy that fills the air. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a grand or intimate ceremony, cherish this moment as the beginning of your lifelong journey together.
4:30 PM – Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate with a cocktail hour for your guests. While you and your partner sneak away for some newlywed photos, your guests can enjoy drinks and lively conversation. Consider adding personal touches such as signature cocktails or an appetizer station to get the party started.
6:00 PM – Reception Begins
As the sun begins to set, it’s time to kick off the reception festivities. Make your grand entrance as newlyweds and share your first dance as a married couple. Let the music play, the champagne flow, and the laughter fill the air as you celebrate this joyous occasion with your loved ones.
7:00 PM – Dinner is Served
After working up an appetite on the dance floor, it’s time to indulge in a delicious dinner. Whether you’ve opted for a plated meal or a buffet-style feast, be sure to savor each bite and take a moment to appreciate the custom menu you’ve selected. Don’t forget to raise a toast to your love and happiness!
8:30 PM – Cake Cutting
No wedding is complete without a sweet treat to end the evening. Gather your guests around for the traditional cake-cutting ceremony. Whether you choose a classic tiered cake or a trendy dessert bar, let your sweet tooth lead the way as you indulge in this delicious moment.
Photo by: Haley Aurora Co.
9:00 PM – Dancing the Night Away
With dinner and dessert behind you, it’s time to hit the dance floor and boogie the night away. Whether you’re dancing to a live band or a DJ spinning your favorite tunes, let loose and have fun with your guests. Remember, it’s your day to celebrate, so dance like nobody’s watching!
11:00 PM – Farewell Send-Off
As the evening draws to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to your guests with a memorable send-off. Whether you’re making your exit under a shower of sparklers or flower petals, let your love shine bright as you embark on this new chapter together. And don’t forget to steal one last kiss before riding into the sunset.
And there you have it – your perfect wedding day timeline from start to finish! Remember, no matter how meticulously you plan, there may be unexpected twists and turns along the way. But with love, laughter, and a little bit of flexibility, your wedding day is sure to be nothing short of magical.
At Banquets of Minnesota, you can rely on our team to help you design your wedding day timeline so your day flows smoothly. We can host you and your wedding party at the beginning of the day in our hospitality suites so you can get ready in style. Our suites are equipped with comfortable lounge seating, and vanity desks with mirrors, lighting, and outlets so your makeup and hair stylists can do their best work. Plus, cheers your wedding party in style with one of our getting ready beverage packages!
Our venue is perfect for having both your ceremony and reception onsite with two beautiful ballrooms to choose from, the Grand Olympian and Vivian Ballroom. Both ballrooms are versatile, adorned with charming ceiling drapery and lighting, and include tables and chairs. Opt for renting chair covers and centerpieces from our inventory to create a stunning ambiance and truly make it yours.
We will seamlessly transition the room from your ceremony setup to the reception where your guests will enjoy a delicious dinner from our in-house catering and beverage services, and then dance the night away on the dance floor. Banquets of Minnesota is your one-stop shop for a beautiful and smooth day from start to finish. Inquire now to learn more about hosting your wedding at Banquets of Minnesota.
Download our free Wedding Day Timeline to help you plan your perfect day!