How to Build a Realistic Photography Timeline When You Have Multiple Locations
If your wedding day involves multiple locations — maybe an Airbnb for getting ready, a church ceremony, and a separate reception space — you’ll need to be extra intentional with your timeline.
The good news? It’s totally doable. You just need a little more breathing room between each part of the day and a clear plan for what goes where (and when). Here’s how to make it all flow smoothly without feeling rushed.
Leave More Time Than You Think for Transitions
If there’s one thing I can guarantee, it’s that transitions between locations always take longer than expected.
Between packing up details, loading cars, and waiting for everyone to pile in, even a “quick” five-minute drive can easily turn into thirty.
Add buffer time for every move — even if it’s just 10–15 minutes. You’ll never regret having a little extra space in your schedule, but you might regret not having it.
Keep Things Organized (and in the Right Place)
If you’re taking portraits at one location but getting ready somewhere else, make sure everything you need for those portraits — bouquets, boutonnieres, rings, and any props — gets delivered to the right place.
There’s nothing worse than arriving for portraits only to realize the flowers are still at the church. A quick checklist or delivery plan can save you so much time (and stress).
Don’t Make Yourself the Point Person
This one’s big.
Neither you nor your mom should be the one in charge of coordinating all the logistics on your wedding day — especially if you’re juggling multiple locations.
You both deserve to enjoy the day without worrying about who has the marriage license, where the florals got dropped off, or whether the bridal party made it to the ceremony on time.
If possible, assign those details to someone else — a trusted friend, family member, or better yet, a professional.
Hire a Day-of Coordinator (or a Planner)
When your wedding day includes multiple locations, a coordinator or planner is worth every penny.
They’re used to managing the moving parts, communicating between vendors, and keeping things on schedule so you don’t have to.
Even if you’re confident in your timeline, having a professional who can handle the curveballs (and the phone calls) lets you stay in the moment — exactly where you should be.
Final Thought
When in doubt, add extra time, delegate the details, and trust your photographer and coordinator to guide you.
Your wedding day should feel like a celebration — not a logistical challenge — and a well-planned, realistic timeline makes all the difference.