What time is the wedding starting?

The time you choose depends on the kind of day you want. A morning ceremony around 11am gives you a long afternoon for lunch, photos and games, and you can still have an evening party. A 1pm or 2pm start is common for a traditional afternoon wedding, with the meal at 4pm and dancing by 7pm. A 3pm or 4pm start suits couples who prefer a shorter daytime part and a bigger evening celebration. Remember that your registrar or officiant will have set times for ceremonies, so ask them what slots are free. Also think about your guests. If many are travelling, a later start may be easier, but if you have older relatives or young children, an earlier finish may be kinder. You should also consider the season. In winter, a 2pm ceremony means photos in daylight, while in summer you can push it later. Once you have chosen, put the start time on your invitations clearly, and also state when the reception ends, so guests know what to expect. If you are having a religious ceremony, check with your place of worship for any time restrictions.