Giving each part of your wedding day enough time ensures a smooth, stress-free experience, especially in the morning when things can quickly feel rushed. Allowing extra time for morning preparations ensures you won’t be rushed through hair and makeup, getting dressed, or capturing important details. A well-paced schedule also gives time for unexpected delays, helping everything stay on track while allowing you to be present and relaxed throughout the day.
Suggested Time Allocation for Wedding Events
Bride Getting Ready & Detail Photos – 15-20 mins
(Includes photos of stationery, accessories, rings, and candid moments of preparation)
Groom Getting Ready & Accessories – 15-20 mins
(Group shots with groomsmen and solo shots of the groom putting on accessories. It can also be scheduled following the tea ceremony.)
Parents & Bridal Party Helping Bride Put on Qua/Red Dress – 45-50 mins
(This is an emotional moment where parents and bridesmaids may share blessings, which can take additional time)
Door Game & Love Speech (if applicable) – 30-45 mins
(Time varies depending on the number of games and complexity of challenges)
Tea Ceremony – 30-60 mins
(Estimated 5 minutes per group, with parents taking approximately 10 minutes)
Group Portraits After Tea Ceremony – 10-15 mins
(For groups larger than 12 people, it is recommended to schedule portraits after the ceremony due to space limitations)
Bride & Groom Portraits – 10 mins
(Portrait of Bride and Groom in Qua/ Red Dress)
*Transportation Buffer – Allow additional time for travel between locations*
Ceremony Setup & Guest Arrival / First Look– 20-30 mins
(Capturing venue setup, guest interactions, and pre-ceremony moments)
Wedding Ceremony – 30-45 mins
(Duration depends on whether it includes religious traditions, readings, or additional rituals)
Family & Group Portraits After Ceremony – 20-30 mins
(Suggested 2-3 minutes per group; larger groups may require extra time)
Cocktail Hour & Candid Guest Moments – 30-45 mins
(If no first look was done, couple portraits can also be scheduled here)
Reception Grand Entrance – 5-10 mins
(Includes couple’s entrance and transition to dinner or program)
Toasts & Speeches – 10-20 mins
(Varies based on number of speakers and speech duration)
Cake Cutting & Dessert Service – 10-15 mins
(Optional, depends on reception program)
First Dance & Parent Dances – 10-15 mins
(Varies based on number of dance performances)
Games, Speeches & Performances (if applicable) – 20-40 mins
(Time varies depending on the activities planned)