Getting Ready

2 hours

Start your day off stress-free by giving yourself and the rest of your wedding party plenty of time to get ready for the big event. This is when you will have your hair and makeup team on site, and your photographer capturing these memories. If you have a larger party, be sure to allot more time. Be sure to plan some snacks and remember to hydrate so you’ll look and feel fabulous when you greet your guests!

Solo Portraits

45 minutes

Now is the time for your photographer to capture you each individually in your complete wedding looks, before you come together in union.

Wedding Party Photos

30 minutes

Gather your whole crew for wedding party photos - each member of the couple with their respective posse. These can be formal or more casual. Get creative with shots of each party approaching the ceremony site (see photo above), or at one of the many picturesque settings around Camp.

First Look

30 minutes

This is when the couple see each other for the first time on their big day! The photographer can capture these tender moments, as well as shots of the whole wedding party (and/or family) at this time.

Prelude Music

30 minutes

Having music play as your guests arrive will set the mood, and alleviate any awkward poses or rough transitions. Music can be played live by a soloist or group, or be a set playlist chosen in advance.

Ceremony

15-60 minutes

Every ceremony is unique, and the amount of time you set aside for your ceremony will vary based on the elements involved. Will you be exchanging vows? Will readings or performances be incorporated? What other traditions will you include? Whatever you decide, it’s best to keep you ceremony under an hour.

Family Photos

50 minutes

When it comes to family photos, it’s best to schedule more time than you think you might need. Give your photographer and planner a rundown of family dynamics and groups you want to capture before the event, so they can help these photos move quickly and efficiently. If you don’t catch the ‘perfect’ photo at this time, don’t stress - you’ll have the rest of the evening for more casual photos to take place.

Cocktails

1 hour

While you take your family photos, guests can make their way to the reception area, find their seats and mingle while sipping their refreshments. Since you can’t be present for this, be sure to touch base with your vendors in advance to be sure this part of your event runs smoothly.

Intro + First Dance

15 minutes

Once guests find their seats, it’s time for your grand entrance. After your wedding party enters and takes their seats, you’ll be announced as a married couple for the first time! Be sure your photographer has time to set up for this moment, which often leads right into the couple’s first dance together.

Dancing

20 minutes

Invite guests to join the couple on the dance floor after the first song. Work with your DJ or band in advance to start the party off with your favorite hits.

First Course

40 minutes

After a few songs, guests are encouraged to return to their seats as the first course is served, or the buffet is opened.

Welcome Toast

5 minutes

The hosts usually give a short welcome speech as the first course is served. Parents can speak at this time, or you can say a few words - whatever feels right to you. The goal is to make everyone feel comfortable and show your gratitude to them for sharing your special day.

Main Course

40 minutes

Once the first course is served, move to the main course.

Wedding Party Speeches

15 minutes

This is likely the last moment that all your guests will be seated, making it the perfect moment for wedding party speeches. The best man is traditionally the first one to speak, followed by the maid of honor, but the lineup and order are completely up to you. To keep the energy high., make sure each speech is no longer than 2-3 minutes.

Parent Dances

10 minutes

If you wish to include time for parent dances, after dinner wraps up is an opportune moment. The dances can be brief, but are often touching milestones that will be treasured by parent and newly-married child alike.

Once the parent dances conclude, it’s time for everyone to celebrate on the dance floor!

Cake-Cutting + Dessert

10 minutes

Take a moment to catch your breath from dancing and cut the cake! Your guests can sit and eat dessert at this time, or continue dancing until the magical evening comes to a close.

Sendoff

15 minutes

Cue your wedding exit song and leave your reception with a grand departure.. You may choose to leave from the hall’s covered front entrance, or the grand staircase off the rear up toward the Chapel. This is the perfect time to toss the bouquet, as well. Add your own flair to your exit with a horse-drawn carriage or a sparkler send-off. Bid your guests farewell and thanks as you and your new spouse begin your new life together!

Guests Depart + Clean Up

30 minutes

Remember to leave time in your event schedule before your contracted time ends for your wedding party to gather any personal items or decorations brought with you to the site and for your guests to depart.