Wedding Programme: A quick guide to the schedule for your big day

Create the perfect wedding programme

Creating a wedding programme that is both detailed and flexible can make a big difference in ensuring the day is stress-free and memorable. Here is a guide to creating a balanced schedule that suits you and your guests.

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Tips for a stress-free wedding schedule

1. Start with the time of the ceremony

Choose a time that suits both you and your guests; we’d say the afternoon is perfect, as it gives you time in the morning for preparations and to spend time together. If you’re planning an early ceremony, remember to start the day in good time so you don’t have to rush. (Psst, girls – your preparations take between 2 and 4 hours, just so you know)

2. Photography

We recommend taking your portraits before the ceremony, both because it’s a lovely moment to spend together, and because after the ceremony you’ll want to mingle and spend time with your guests as soon as possible. After all, it’s a day you want to share and celebrate your love with your loved ones! The portrait session takes between 1–2 hours!

3. Reception for the guests

After the ceremony, it’s often a good idea to organise a social gathering. This gives your guests the chance to chat amongst themselves whilst you take a moment to have a few extra photos taken of yourselves. When you reappear after a while, there’ll be a toast to the bride and even more socialising.

4. Plan the structure of the dinner

When it’s time for dinner, consider dividing it into different sections – such as starter, main course and dessert – with breaks in between for speeches and toasts. One tip is to include planned ‘surprises’, such as a saxophonist or an interactive element like a game for the guests, to create a relaxed atmosphere.

5. Timetable for speeches

Often, as the bride and groom, you won’t know who’s going to give speeches, but talk to your toastmaster(s) about a timetable. A speech should not last longer than 5 minutes. Nor should there be too many speeches, otherwise the dinner will never end and you’ll never have time to chat with your table neighbours or eat.

6. Create a party atmosphere

Once dinner is over and it’s time for dancing and mingling, you can include little activities such as a photo booth, a ‘guest book corner’ or games to get everyone involved. We think a DJ or live band is simply a must! Someone who can capture the audience’s energy and really liven up the atmosphere!

6. A break for the two of you

During such a hectic day, it’s important that you also have time to reflect and enjoy the moment together. Plan a few short breaks to be in the moment – perhaps one before or after the ceremony and one before the party really gets going.

7. Flexibility

Make sure the programme allows room for spontaneity by leaving extra time between the various events throughout the day.

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