Introduction
Kia Ora, I'm Lavender a Canterbury based wedding photographer! Working with many couples over the last summer season I've noticed planning a summer wedding can be quite challenging, especially when it comes to scheduling. In this blog post, we will discuss the ideal timeline for a summer wedding.
Pre-Ceremony
The pre-ceremony activities usually start early in the day. The bride and her bridesmaids should start getting ready at least four hours before the ceremony. The groom and his groomsmen can start getting ready two hours before the ceremony. This timeframe allows enough time for hair and makeup, dressing up, and taking photos and a first look if you choose!
Ceremony
The ceremony should start in the late afternoon, between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The late afternoon sun provides the perfect lighting for an outdoor wedding. The ceremony should last for about 30 minutes, followed by a cocktail hour. This hour allows the guests to mingle and take photos while the newlyweds are taking their own photos.
Reception
The reception should start immediately after the cocktail hour. This is usually around 7:00 PM. The reception should last for about 4 hours, ending at around 11:00 PM. This timeframe allows enough time for the guests to enjoy their meal, speeches, dancing, and other activities.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but having a timeline can make things easier. By following this timeline, you can ensure that your summer wedding will be a success. Remember to consult with your wedding planner and other vendors to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your big day.
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