Uniquely Created Photography
Wedding Advice
Wedding Planning Guide for Couples
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many details to consider. From choosing the perfect venue to finalizing your timeline, every decision makes your big day unforgettable.
As wedding photographers, we’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, which has given us unique insight into what works (and what doesn’t!) when planning a seamless and stress-free wedding.
This page is designed to provide expert advice, inspiration, and practical tips to help you confidently navigate your wedding planning process. Whether you’re looking for timeline guidance, tips on choosing the best photo lighting, or creating a stress-free wedding day, we’ve got you covered!
Make your dream wedding a reality—one beautiful moment at a time.
Tips For Planning Your Wedding Timeline
- Start Early and Build in Buffers
Begin getting ready earlier than you think you need to—hair and makeup often take longer than expected.
Add 10-15 minute buffers between key events to account for any delays.
Aim to be ready at least 30 minutes before the ceremony for breathing room, if possible.
- Prioritize Important Moments
Identify the moments that matter most (e.g., first look, private vows, sunset photos) and schedule them accordingly.
Keep time-sensitive events, like the ceremony and dinner, locked in and flexible with other moments.
- Allocate Time for Hair and Makeup Touch-Ups
Bridal hair & makeup: 60–90 minutes
Bridesmaids’ hair & makeup: 45–60 minutes each
Groom & groomsmen prep: 30–45 minutes
If you have a large bridal party, consider hiring multiple stylists to speed up the process.
- First Look or Pre-Ceremony Photos?
A first look can help ease nerves and allow more time for photos before the ceremony.
If skipping the first look, plan time after the ceremony for couple and group portraits.
- Ceremony Timing
Most ceremonies last 20-45 minutes (longer for religious ceremonies).
Plan for a 10-15 minute cushion before and after for guests to settle and exit.
- Post-Ceremony Photos
Family & group portraits: 20–30 minutes
Make a list of all the people you want portraits of and appoint your friend who is a go-getter and a little bossy at times.
Bridal party photos: 15–20 minutes
Couple portraits: 30 minutes (longer for multiple locations)
Make a list of must-have photos to stay on schedule.
- Cocktail Hour & Reception Entrance
Cocktail hour allows guests to mingle while photos are being taken. Have a variety of good music playing.
Plan for 60 – 70 minutes, then make your grand entrance into the reception.
- Reception Events & Dinner
First dance, speeches, and dinner: 90–120 minutes
Cake cutting & special dances: 30 minutes
Keep speeches concise—aim for 3-5 minutes per speaker.
- Sunset & Golden Hour Photos
If possible, sneak away for 15–20 minutes during golden hour (right before sunset) for dreamy portraits.
- Party & Exit
If you’re planning a send-off (sparkler exit, getaway car, etc.), coordinate with your planner or photographer to ensure guests are ready.
If you want to enjoy the dance floor, don’t schedule too many formal events late into the night.
Check out our blogs: Capturing Your Love Story With Professional Engagement Pictures in Columbus, Ohio
We’re Engaged – Now What? A Complete Timeline for Planning Your Dream Wedding
Helpful Links
Celebrate Your Unique Love Story
When you start planning your big day, try focusing on celebrating your unique love story rather than chasing perfection. So, embrace flexibility, let people help you when they can, and focus on creating an experience that reflects you and your partner’s personality rather than trying to meet expectations.
Stay Organized And Calm
Start by defining your top priorities, setting a realistic budget, and mapping out a detailed timeline to keep every detail on track. However, take steps back from time to time and try and just enjoy the moment!
Advice On Choosing Wedding Vendors
- Our Featured wedding vendors list!
- Set a budget first – Know how much you can spend on each vendor to avoid overspending and disappointment.
- Do your research. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and examine vendors’ past work to ensure quality and reliability.
- Meet in person or virtually – Having a conversation helps you gauge their professionalism, personality, and ability to understand your vision.
- Get everything in writing – Contracts should outline services, pricing, timelines, and cancellation policies to protect both parties.
- Trust your instincts – If something feels off or a vendor isn’t responsive, keep looking until you find someone who makes you feel confident and comfortable.
- Helpful website on choosing wedding vendors
Keep Everthing In Perspective
Take deep breaths and remind yourself that the wedding is just one day, but your marriage is for a lifetime. Stay organized with a checklist to avoid last-minute stress, and don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted friends and family. Make time for self-care, whether it’s a spa day, meditation, or simply a quiet moment with your favorite book. Most importantly, embrace the imperfections—no wedding is perfect, but your joy and love will make it unforgettable.
A Bride And Groom’s Entrance Sets The Tone For The Reception, So Making It Fun, Dramatic, or Unexpected Can Wow Your Guests! Here Are Some Creative Ideas For Your Grand Entrance:
Fun & High-Energy Entrances
- Choreographed Dance – Enter with a rehearsed dance routine that surprises your guests.
- Flash Mob – Coordinate with the bridal party for a sudden dance explosion.
- Sports-Themed Entrance: If you’re into sports, wear jerseys and run through a banner or tunnel of guests dressed like athletes.
- DJ Drop & Fog Machine – Have the DJ introduce you with an epic beat drop as you step into a cloud of fog.
- Balloon Drop – Make an entrance as balloons cascade over you.
Funny & Playful Entrances
- Fake Mishap – Pretend to trip and catch each other in a dramatic or goofy way.
- Reverse Roles: The groom wears a “bride” outfit, and the bride wears a “groom” suit (or just swaps accessories).
- Superhero Landing – Arrive in capes and strike a superhero pose.
- Slow Motion Walk – Dramatically walk in slow motion while guests react exaggeratedly.
- Dance Battle – The Bride and groom enter separately, battling it out on the dance floor before coming together.
Unique Transport-Themed Entrances
- Motorcycle or Bicycle Ride-In – Arrive in style on two wheels.
- Golf Cart Grand Entrance—Ride in a decorated golf cart on a golf course or at an outdoor venue.
- Roller Skates or Hoverboards – Glide smoothly (if you’re confident in your skills).
- Rickshaw or Horse-Drawn Carriage – Romantic and unexpected!
- Boat Arrival – If your venue is near water, arrive by boat for a dramatic effect.
Romantic & Whimsical Entrances
- Bubble or Sparkler Walkway – Walk through a glowing path of guests holding sparklers or blowing bubbles.
- Rose Petal Toss – Have flower petals thrown as you enter for a dreamy effect.
- Candlelit Entrance – Walk in through a dimmed venue, with guests holding candles or fairy lights.
- Umbrella Dance – Walk in under an elegant umbrella showered with confetti.
- Live String Quartet or Band – Walk in with live music playing a dramatic or sentimental song.
Themed & Movie-Inspired Entrances
- Star Wars Lightsaber Duel – Enter with light sabers for an epic battle before embracing.
- Harry Potter-Inspired – Walk through a “Platform 9¾” entrance with wands in hand.
- Old Hollywood Glamour – Have a red carpet rolled out and enter like celebrities.
- Disney Fairy Tale Entrance – Come in as your favorite Disney couple with music from the movie.
- James Bond-Inspired – The groom enters in a tux like 007, and the bride in a sleek gown with dramatic music.
Surprise & Interactive Entrances
- Hidden Entrance Reveal – Start in a concealed area (behind a curtain or a backdrop) and reveal yourself with dramatic music.
- Giant Box Reveal – Enter through a large wrapped “gift box” and pop out together.
- Human Tunnel – Have the wedding party form a tunnel for you to run through.
- Magic Trick Entrance – If you’re into magic, do an illusion where one of you appears from a hidden spot.
- Live Performance – If one of you can sing, play an instrument, or perform, make your entrance part of a mini-show.
