Set the wedding date and ceremony start time
Decide the ceremony and reception locations
List every event that must happen on the wedding day
Estimate how long each event will take
Work backward from the ceremony time
Add buffer time between each major event
Schedule hair and makeup first
Schedule getting dressed and detail photos
Schedule first look and couple portraits if needed
Schedule wedding party and family photos
Schedule guest arrival and seating time
Schedule the ceremony
Schedule cocktail hour
Schedule reception entrance
Schedule dinner service
Schedule speeches and toasts
Schedule first dance and parent dances
Schedule cake cutting
Schedule bouquet and garter toss if planned
Schedule open dancing
Schedule final send-off
Share the timeline with vendors and wedding party
Confirm transportation timing
Confirm setup and breakdown times
Review and finalize the timeline before the wedding day