Daily schedule for your wedding: the ideal timing for each part of the day

Photo (above): Photographer: Kristel Cuyvers

1. Getting ready and first look

The morning is often reserved for getting ready: make-up, hair, dressing and perhaps a “first look” moment with your partner.

Start time: between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Allow plenty of time for this (at least 2 hours).

Also count on a photographer and/or videographer who will be present from the preparations onwards.

2. Ceremony (civil, religious or symbolic)

Most couples opt for an afternoon ceremony. This gives everyone time to arrive at their leisure and allows sufficient time after the preparations. If you are having both a civil and a religious or symbolic ceremony on the same day, it is recommended that you plan one of them – the civil ceremony, for example – in the morning. In between, you can enjoy a short lunch with your closest friends and family before heading to the location of the religious or symbolic ceremony.

Start time for civil weddings: between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Take into account the availability of your town hall or municipal office when planning your civil ceremony.

Start time for a church or symbolic ceremony: between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Take into account the travel time between locations.

Allow some leeway for your symbolic ceremony: for example, give your guests half an hour to arrive and take their seats before you actually start the ceremony. For example, put 3.30 p.m. as the start time on your invitation and actually start the ceremony at 4 p.m.

A ceremony lasts 30 to 60 minutes on average.

3. Reception and congratulations

The reception is the time for bubbles, small snacks and congratulations. This is often also the time for group photos and speeches.

Start time: immediately after the ceremony, between 3.30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Lasts an average of 1.5 to 2 hours.

The perfect moment to welcome all your guests who are also staying for dinner, if guests arrive after your ceremony. It is also the ideal moment to greet guests who are not staying for dinner.

4. Dinner

Whether it's a walking dinner or a seated dinner, allow at least 2 to 3 hours for the meal, speeches, and possibly live music.

Start time: between 5.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m.

Ensure a clear transition from the reception to the dinner.

Don't forget to schedule your golden hour shoot around sunset.

5. Evening party with extra guests

Evening guests are best invited to join once dinner is over and the dance floor is about to open. This way, you avoid them feeling “too early” and your “day guests” still sitting at the table.

Start time: between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

It is customary to invite evening guests from 8.30 p.m. onwards.

The evening part usually includes dessert (buffet), the opening dance and then the dance party.

Are you planning a surprise moment, such as a slideshow of photos or fireworks? Then this is the perfect moment.

Bonus: tips for smooth wedding planning

Be clear on your invitation: state the exact time when someone's invitation starts (ceremony, reception, dinner or evening party).

Allow for a margin: minor delays are normal. A good schedule takes this into account.

Variety works: make sure your day is dynamic with a mix of formal moments, relaxation, a moment for the two of you – for example, your couple's photo shoot – and possibly some surprise elements.

Work with a script that is well coordinated with all suppliers.

Conclusion

A well-structured schedule for your wedding day will ensure peace of mind, clarity and a more enjoyable experience for you and your guests. Whether you opt for an intimate day with a select group or a large party with different starting times, start with a realistic schedule for your wedding day and tailor your invitations and timing to it perfectly.