As an LA wedding photographer, I can’t stress enough how crucial creating a wedding day schedule is—it’s the key to setting the overall pace and energy you want for your big day. But here’s the thing: you’re not locked into any traditional schedule. You have the freedom to create a day that truly reflects you as a couple.
Take this fabulous couple I recently worked with. They ditched the conventional timeline and opted for something that truly resonated with them. A week before their intimate, upscale wedding celebration with family, they tied the knot at a courthouse. A courthouse ceremony allowed them to exchange personal vows and gave them the time and space to savor the moment privately first. Then, the following weekend, they could fully enjoy their celebration with family. The atmosphere was relaxed, the schedule was flexible, and everyone had a blast celebrating the newlyweds without the rush and stress of a traditional wedding timeline.
Break Free from Wedding Tradition
The beauty of creating your own wedding day schedule is that you can break free from the norm. Here’s why you should consider mixing it up:
Personal Moments
Separating your private vows from the celebration allows you to have those intimate moments without distractions. This couple had a whole week to bask in their newlywed bliss before diving into the celebration.
Flexible Timelines
You can tailor the day to suit your needs. Want a midday ceremony with a sunset reception? Go for it!
Fully Engage
When it came time to celebrate, they were relaxed and ready to enjoy every second with their family.
Guest Experience
A relaxed schedule means your guests can fully enjoy the day without feeling rushed from one event to the next.
How to Create a Wedding Day Schedule that Works for You
Remember when planning your wedding day: you don’t have to fit your wedding into a box. You are free to do it your way, on your own time. Here are a few tips to help you create a schedule that works perfectly for you:
1. Start with Your Vision
What do you and your partner imagine for your wedding day? Is it a grand affair or a cozy, intimate gathering? Write down everything you both envision, and let that be your guide.
2. Prioritize What Matters Most
What moments are non-negotiable for you? Is it the first look, a sunset ceremony, or a late-night dance party? Do you want a slow, relaxed morning with your closest friends, or are you craving the excitement of a first look in the early afternoon? Once you know your must-haves, you can build your schedule around them.
3. Play with Timelines
Morning ceremony with an evening reception? Sure! How about a late afternoon ceremony followed by a sunset dinner? Absolutely. Don’t feel pressured to follow a cookie-cutter timeline.
Don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly according to plan. The beauty of having a flexible schedule is that you can roll with the punches and still have the time of your life.
4. Mix Up the Locations
Why limit yourself to one spot? Start with a serene garden ceremony and then move to a chic rooftop for the reception. The change of scenery can add a fresh vibe to each part of your day.
5. Communicate with Your Vendors
Make sure all your vendors are on the same page. A clear schedule helps everyone know where to be and when so the day runs smoothly.
6. Curate Your Guest List
The couple I mentioned earlier kept their courthouse wedding private. Then, they celebrated with family the following weekend. You can keep things intimate with a smaller guest list or go big with a grand bash. The choice is yours.
7. Enjoy the Process
Lastly, remember to enjoy planning your day. Your wedding experience is a celebration of your love, and it should be fun, not stressful!
Doing Your Wedding, Your Way
Your experience should reflect who you are as a couple. If that means getting married on a Tuesday at the courthouse and throwing a backyard BBQ the following Saturday, go for it! The beauty of creating your own wedding day schedule is that you get to play by your rules. Don’t feel boxed in by traditional schedules or expectations.
This couple’s unique approach allowed them to enjoy their private ceremony and family celebration to the fullest. You can do the same by creating a wedding day schedule that works for you.
So, dream big, be bold, and craft a wedding timeline that makes your heart sing. Trust me, when you’re surrounded by your nearest and dearest, celebrating in a way that feels authentically you, the magic will happen.
So, here’s to breaking the mold and doing it your way. I can’t wait to capture every beautiful moment of your one-of-a-kind day.
XOXO,
Magaly
Your go-to LA Wedding Photographer
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