These days, having a timeline is a little bit of a challenge. Between finding our new normal and navigating our day-to-day lives, things have been a little crazy. That being said, in terms of weddings and events, every couple should have something to go by when things get hectic. Timelines are important for several reasons, and if your event does not have one, you may run the risk of losing sight of what your event is truly about. Today we’re talking about what a timeline is, how to organize it to fit you best, and why every wedding should have one!
A timeline, run of show, agenda, or schedule of events (all known names for the same idea) is something to help your wedding run smoothly. It can be printed or digitalized, and the most basic timeline simply outlines the events of the day such as cutting the wedding cake or announcing the first dance, and gives an estimated time on when those events should happen. Though my timelines are a bit more detailed than that, the overall idea of a timeline is that you don’t lose sight of what the reason is for the wedding, what activities within your wedding will take place, and when to do those said activities.
When organizing a timeline, just remember the logistics of your day. For example, if a first look is really important to you and your future spouse, remember that hair and makeup must be finished, wedding dress and tuxedo/suit need to be on, and your photographer and videographer need to be present in order for this to happen (unless of course, you don’t want it photographed). A first look sounds simple until you realize all of the behind-the-scenes timing for how to pull it off! By having the timeline in hand on the day of your wedding, this ensures that these special moments are done well and executed expertly.
Another great reason to have a timeline is your wedding party. How many of you have been to a wedding and had absolutely no idea where you were supposed to be and at what time?! By my guess, maybe a few of my dear readers! A timeline cuts this problem in half by providing your wedding party a solidified time and place to be where and when. This allows your wedding party to enjoy the morning and not be MIA when that walk down the aisle begins.
A timeline is something that every couple should have because it helps plan the day and organize your activities so that your friends, family, and most importantly, the two of you don’t miss out on any of your unique details. If you want a few moments to yourselves after you are officially married, make sure to schedule it in! If you do not have a concrete plan on where and how that might happen, it could be lost due to time constraints on family photographs and making sure the reception meal is being served at the right time.
Your wedding day will go by in a flash. If you’ve read any first-hand accounts of couples remembering their wedding days, I bet that is the one thing you have read over and over. This special day goes so quickly, and before you know it, you and your new spouse will be heading to the honeymoon. By creating a timeline for your day, you can help communicate to your wedding party, your team of wedding professionals, and yourself that these activities are important to you and ensure that you don’t miss out on them. If you need help creating a timeline that fits your wedding day needs, hire an expert! I have been planning weddings for many, many years, and have created countless timelines with unique details for my couples. Contact me today!