Wedding reception schedule: building an hour-by-hour timeline

The wedding day schedule isn't meant to plan every minute for the couple. Its main purpose is to give vendors and those responsible a shared vision of the day. A good timeline leaves room for flexibility.

Start with fixed times

First note elements that are hard to move: ceremony, arrival at the reception venue, service times, end time imposed by the venue and shuttle departures.

Then place the key moments

Add the cocktail, the couple's entrance, speeches, entertainment, first dance, dessert and opening of the dance floor. Avoid filling every slot: guests need time to chat.

Allow for buffer time

A band may arrive 10 minutes late, a family photo may take longer, or service may be delayed. A timeline without any buffer becomes impossible to follow.

Who receives the timeline ?

The wedding planner, the venue manager, the caterer, the DJ, the photographer and the witnesses may need a version adapted to their role. The couple shouldn't have to answer logistical calls during the reception.

Create a simple version for guests

Don't necessarily share the full technical sheet. A version with the main stages is enough.

You can also rely on our wedding retro-planning to prepare the months before.

Frequently asked questions

Should photo time be scheduled?

Yes. Schedule a slot with the photographer and inform the people involved.

Who should handle delays?

A designated person should take operational decisions so the couple can remain available to their guests.