Planning your wedding day is full of anticipation and emotion, but to ensure everything goes smoothly, it's essential to have a well thought out schedule. Whether you're planning a small intimate wedding or a big celebration, a detailed plan will help you keep everything under control and ensure you really enjoy your day. We've put together a simple step-by-step guide on how to create a schedule, complete with specific recommendations and tips.
START PLANNIG EARLY
We recommend that you pay special attention to making a schedule, as it is the basic document that will guide your entire day. It is ideal to start at least 2-3 months before the wedding when you have confirmed the venue, suppliers and key details.
HOW TO MAKE A SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY
Every wedding is unique, but most schedules include basic points to help you keep your time frame under control. Here's an example of a typical wedding schedule:
Morning: Preparations
7:00-9:00am - Wake up and light breakfast. Remember to start the day early enough to have time for everything you need.
9:00-12:00 - Makeup, hair and dressing of the bride and bridesmaids. The preparation area should be close to the ceremony site to avoid time delays.
11:00-12:00 - Groom and bridesmaid preparation.
Noon: Ceremony
12:30 - Arrival of guests at the ceremony site. Make sure you have someone on site to direct guests to where they need to be.
13:00 - Ceremony. The ceremony usually lasts 20-30 minutes.
Afternoon: photo shoot and lunch
14:00-15:00 - Group and couple photo shoot. Photographers in our Directory will help you capture the most beautiful moments.
15:00-17:00 - Wedding Lunch. Guests are seated while you enjoy your first moments as newlyweds.
Evening
18:00 - First dance of the newlyweds. Get the playlist ready or arrange with a DJ from our Directory.
19:00-20:00 - Cake cutting and other fun activities (e.g. games, speeches).
22:00 - Evening reception and informal entertainment.
00:00 - Official end of the main programme. Afterwards, free entertainment.
DON'T FORGET TO RESERVE
No matter how detailed you make your schedule, there are always unexpected situations that can disrupt your plan. That's why we recommend allowing for time reserves, especially for moves, preparations or photo shoots. Reserves will provide you with peace of mind and room for any changes.
COMMUNICATE WITH SUPPLIERS
Your wedding schedule should also be known by your vendors - photographer, videographer, DJ, caterer and others. Clearly communicate to them when and where they will be needed to keep everything running smoothly. If you're looking for professional suppliers, check out our Directory for verified contacts of wedding specialists.
INSTRUCT THE COORDINATOR OR WITNESSES
If you don't want to be burdened with checking the time and items on the schedule during your day, delegate the coordination to someone else. This can be a wedding coordinator (see our Directory for contact details of coordinators) or witnesses who will keep the timetable with them and oversee the smooth running of the day.
DETAILS THAT WILL MAKE THE DAY EASIER
Contact list
First Aid Packet:
Prepare a small pack with essentials such as tissues, spare sutures, plasters or refreshing spray.
Wedding Manual:
Create a simple wedding manual for guests with a timeline, map and important information.
TAKE INSPIRATION FROM REAL WEDDINGS
Want to see what real wedding schedules look like? Check out the couples' stories in the Mile Online section, where you'll find not only inspiration but also tips on what worked or what they would have done differently.
Planning your wedding schedule can be a fun part of the preparations if you have the right tools and inspiration. With our articles, Directory and e-shop, you can handle everything with ease.
Let us guide you and prepare an unforgettable day that you will fondly remember!
Photo: MILE Archive