What To Expect on a Typical Wedding Day

The Bride's House

A good photographer will start "taking pictures" of the bride at least (2)two hours before the wedding! This means that you should be ready by then! Two hours may seem like a long time, but it's well worth the effort. For the best pictures, have your flowers ready (see "The Florist" section under "How To Make Your Wedding Day a Success" for details). Without that 2-hour buffer, circumstances become chaotic, the bridal party is often rushed and nervous, and they are not prepared for all the unexpected things that WILL happen as they try to get ready. Those extra minutes will go by quickly as your photographer occupies your time by taking prenuptial photographs which will capture those special moments forever.

Pictures of the Groom Before the Wedding

After the bridal prenuptials (if the bride is on schedule), the photographer will be able to give "equal time" to the groom. The groom's prenuptials generally begin approximately 45 minutes before the wedding at the church or synagogue.

The Ceremony

All weddings are different depending on the officiator. Some weddings last 15 minutes while others last an hour and a half. Ask your Pastor or Rabbi how long the ceremony will be so you can allocate time for it. Remember, other weddings or services may start after your wedding is complete, so be on time! Otherwise, you will have to "give up" a scheduled part of YOUR ceremony or pictures. Also, limo drivers have been known to leave if the bridal party is not on time and they have another affair after yours.

Receiving Line?

It is advised that you do not have a receiving line after the ceremony. A receiving line generally takes about 45 minutes. That 45 minutes would be better spent getting formal pictures out of the way or enjoying your guests at your reception.

Formal Pictures After the Wedding

Let your bridal party and family members know IN ADVANCE that formal pictures will be taken immediately after the ceremony. Have them remain in the sanctuary to avoid losing time. It is also a good idea to assign one family member (other than you) who knows everyone, to be in charge of gathering everyone together. Formal pictures take 30 - 45 minutes.