What is the average wedding day timeline?

Most UK weddings follow a similar rhythm, but every day is different. A common timeline starts with getting ready in the morning, often from 9 or 10am. The ceremony usually takes place between 12pm and 3pm. After the ceremony, guests enjoy drinks and canapés while you have photos, usually for an hour or so. Then comes the wedding breakfast, often around 3 or 4pm, followed by speeches, which can happen before, during or after the meal.

After the meal, there is often a short break while the room is turned around for the evening. Evening guests arrive around 6 or 7pm. The cake is often cut around this time, and the first dance usually happens after 7pm, once evening guests have arrived. Then the dance floor opens, with music, dancing and often a late-night snack.

Your registrar or venue will set the ceremony time, and your caterer will need fixed meal times. Work backwards from your ceremony time and build in buffer time for photos and travel. If you have a humanist or religious ceremony, check with your celebrant or place of worship for their preferred timings. The key is to leave gaps so you are not rushed.