If you’re planning a wedding in NYC, you already know: this city moves fast—and so will your wedding day. But between hair and makeup, photos, the ceremony, and squeezing in actual time with your guests, it’s easy to underestimate how much time you’ll really need.

As a New York City wedding photographer, I’ve seen timelines fall apart from being too tight—and run perfectly with just the right padding. So let’s break down how much time you actually need for each part of your day (with plenty of buffer for NYC traffic, elevator delays, and champagne-fueled giggles).

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Getting Ready: 2.5 to 3.5 Hours

Hair. Makeup. Laughs. Coffee runs. Touch-ups. You’d be surprised how fast time flies in the getting-ready suite.

Recommended Time:

• Hair & makeup for bride: 1.5–2 hours
• Hair & makeup per bridesmaid: 45 mins–1 hour
• Final touch-ups + getting dressed: 30–45 minutes

NYC Tip: If you’re getting ready in a hotel, factor in time for elevator delays, valet, and room access for your photographer and glam team.

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Details & Flat Lays: 30–45 Minutes

You’ve spent time picking out beautiful wedding invitations, rings, and accessories—let’s capture them properly. I like to start the day with detail shots while you’re still in hair and makeup.

What we photograph:

• Invitations, rings, shoes, veil, perfume
• Jewelry, vow books, special heirlooms

Bonus: If you want those Pinterest-perfect flat lays, have all your items in one box ready to go when I arrive!

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First Look & Couple Portraits: 45–60 Minutes

Doing a first look? Amazing—this gives us time to capture all the romantic, tearful, joyful moments before the day gets busy.

Recommended Time:

• First look moment: 10–15 minutes
• Couple portraits: 30–45 minutes

NYC Tip: If we’re taking portraits at a location like Brooklyn Bridge Park, Central Park, or DUMBO, factor in travel time and potential crowds.

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Bridal Party Photos: 30–45 Minutes

With everyone dressed and hyped up, this is where the fun starts. We’ll photograph the full bridal party, groups, and individuals.

If you’re skipping the first look, we may do half of this pre-ceremony and the rest after.

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Family Photos: 30 Minutes (With a List)

These can move fast—if you have a solid list in advance. I always recommend assigning a family wrangler (someone who knows most people) to help gather groups.

Pro Tip: Group family photos right after the ceremony when everyone’s in one place.

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Ceremony: 30–60 Minutes

Ceremony length depends on your style, traditions, and whether it’s religious or secular.

• Short & sweet: 15–25 minutes
• Standard: 30–45 minutes
• Religious/full service: Up to 1 hour

NYC Tip: Add 10–15 minutes for guest arrival and a few delays (because Uncle Joe is always late).

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Cocktail Hour: 60 Minutes

Standard across the board—whether you’re mingling or off doing portraits, this hour gives your guests a chance to enjoy drinks and apps while we wrap up photos if needed.

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Reception: 3–5 Hours

This is where it all comes together—introductions, speeches, dinner, dancing, cake cutting, and late-night shenanigans.

Typical flow:

• 15 mins – Grand entrance
• 15–30 mins – Toasts
• 60 mins – Dinner
• 90+ mins – Dancing, dessert, and fun

NYC Tip: If your venue has strict end times, plan backwards so you don’t lose those last big dance moments.

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Golden Hour Portraits (Optional): 15–20 Minutes

If your timeline allows, we’ll sneak out for a few minutes during golden hour—those dreamy sunset shots are so worth it. These don’t have to take long, and they’re often a favorite part of the day.

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Final Thoughts: Give Yourself Breathing Room

Yes, you can pack a lot into one day—but building in buffer time will keep you calm, happy, and fully present.

I help all my NYC wedding clients create custom timelines that reflect your priorities. Because the best timeline isn’t the most packed—it’s the one that lets you enjoy every second.

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how much time you need for each part of your wedding day

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Wondering how much time you need for your NYC wedding day? Get real advice to build a timeline that actually works—without the stress.

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