Free tool · On the day
Wedding day timeline builder
Set the ceremony time and the parts of your day. We build a running order you can tweak and print.
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Free to use. Everything you type stays in your own browser on this device; nothing is sent to us.
How to use the wedding day timeline builder
- Enter your ceremony start time and choose the events you want.
- Add each part of the day in the order you want it.
- The tool builds a full running order for you to review.
- Tweak timings and event names until your day feels right.
- Download your timeline and print copies for your team.
How to plan your wedding day timeline
Start with the one thing you cannot move: your ceremony time. Everything else sits around it. Work backwards from the ceremony for the morning, and forwards from it for the rest of the day.
A typical order flows like this:
- drinks reception while photos are taken
- the meal
- speeches and first dance
- carriages
Allow enough time between events. Guests need a moment to move from the ceremony to the drinks, and you need time for photos without rushing. Think about how long your photos will take and build a little slack in case of delays.
When to send out your wedding day schedule
Share your timeline with the people who need it, not everyone on the guest list. Your wedding party, family helpers and suppliers should have a copy before the day.
Give your photographer a list of key moments and family group shots so they know when to be where. Tell your venue and caterer when the meal and speeches are scheduled. If you have a tight schedule, a printed copy at the top table helps keep things on track.
Keep a copy in your bag on the day. If something runs late, you can adjust without stress.
Tips for a smooth wedding running order
Be realistic about how long things take. Photos often run longer than you expect, especially with large families. Speeches can stretch past their slot if guests are enjoying themselves.
Plan for these common hiccups:
- guests taking time to find seats before the ceremony
- drinks being served slowly at a busy bar
- travel time between venues
- photos with family groups taking longer than planned
Build in small buffers between big parts of the day. A relaxed schedule beats a packed one every time. Your guests will thank you for a day that flows naturally.
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