How do you make a wedding day timeline?
A wedding timeline is a timed list of the day: who does what, where and when. Start with the fixed points such as the ceremony, dinner and cake, count backwards for travel and preparation, and leave slack between items. Share it with the toastmaster, photographer and venue in advance.
1. Start with the fixed points
Write down what cannot move first: the ceremony start time, when the venue opens and closes, when dinner is served and when the music has to stop.
2. Count backwards
Work back from the ceremony: when must the couple be ready, when does the photographer arrive, how long is the trip? Add 15–30 minutes of slack to every move.
3. A typical evening
- Guests arrive and get a welcome drink (30–45 min)
- Ceremony (20–40 min)
- Congratulations and group photo (30 min)
- Dinner with speeches between courses (2–3 hours)
- Cake and coffee
- First dance and open dance floor
- Late-night snack and last song
4. Give every item an owner
Put a name next to each item, such as the toastmaster, a friend or a supplier. Then the couple does not have to answer questions during the day.
5. Share and update
Send the timeline to everyone working on the day and keep a version that is easy to change. Myo is in an early pilot and is being built to keep the schedule in one shared view for the host and the toastmaster.
Frequently asked questions
- How early should the timeline be ready?
- Have a draft 2–3 months before the wedding and a final version about a week before, once guest numbers and supplier times are settled.
- Who should get the timeline?
- The toastmaster, photographer, venue, caterer, music and the closest witnesses. The couple usually only need to know the next item.
- How much slack should I add?
- Plan 10–15 minutes between program items and 15–30 minutes for moves. Most things run over.