Let’s get this out of the way first:
Planning a relaxed wedding day timeline? It doesn’t have to be complicated.
You don’t need to cram a million things into your timeline to get beautiful photos.
The best wedding days? They breathe.
I’ve photographed weddings all across the Cotswolds, including gorgeous venues like Merriscourt, Elmore Court, and Cripps Barn.. and the ones that feel the most effortless all have one thing in common: space. Space to be with your people, space to soak it up, and space for natural moments to unfold.
Here’s how I help couples build a relaxed timeline that works with the day, not against it.
Start with your ceremony time
Everything builds from here.
Once you know your ceremony time, you can map the rest of the day around it, from hair and makeup to golden hour portraits.
💡 Venue tip: Merriscourt often recommends a 1:30–2pm ceremony to take advantage of the soft afternoon light and it works beautifully.
Build in breathing space where it matters
This is the secret to a no-stress day.
Getting ready: Add at least 30–45 minutes more than you think. Hair and makeup always take longer.
After the ceremony: Don’t go straight into group shots. Give yourself 20–30 minutes to hug, breathe, and actually feel married.
Dinner + speeches: These always overrun. Give it time so nothing feels rushed.
Group shots without the faff
No one wants 45 minutes of stiff line-ups. I keep them efficient, relaxed and as fast as possible. Bare in mind each photo will take 2-3 minutes, so keep your list to 10 at the most.
Tip: Choose essential combinations and assign a helper (maid of honour or best man) to help find people when we need them. Make sure they have the list too ahead of time!
Couple portraits (short + sweet)
I like to do two short portrait sessions:
One during cocktail hour (10–15 mins)
One around golden hour (if the light and timing work)
That’s it. No need for hours away from your guests.
The goal is to capture how the day feels, not pose you into something that doesn’t.
💡 Merriscourt is especially lovely for golden hour – wide views, soft hills, and a real sense of space.
Let the energy build naturally
Some of the best dancefloor photos I’ve taken happened before the official first dance.
If your people want to move, let them. If you want to skip the cake cut or flip the order – do it.
The timeline is yours.
If you want a wedding that flows with ease, this relaxed wedding day timeline gives you the space to enjoy it all, without missing the magic in between.
Example of a Relaxed Wedding Day Timeline with 1:30pm Ceremony
| Time | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| 10:00am | Hair and makeup begins |
| 11:30am | Photographer arrives for prep coverage |
| 1:30pm | Ceremony |
| 2:00pm | Confetti, hugs, drinks |
| 2:30pm | Group photos (max 20 mins) |
| 3:00pm | Couple portraits (10 mins) |
| 3:30pm | Speeches + dinner |
| 6:00pm | Golden hour portraits |
| 6:30pm | First dance / dancing / chill time |
| 7:00pm | Let the party unfold |
Venue Note
The images in this post were taken at Merriscourt, one of my favourite venues for relaxed, editorial-style weddings in the Cotswolds. The space, the light, the laid-back feel – it’s a dream to shoot and even better to experience.
Planning your day around your people (and yourselves)
Whether you’re getting married in a barn, a manor house, or your gran’s garden – the timeline should serve you, not the other way around.
If you want a day that feels full of heart but never feels performative, this kind of timeline lets you live it, not just tick it off.
Ready to plan your own relaxed wedding timeline?
Let’s make it flow. I can help you shape your timeline around your venue, your style and what matters to you most.
If you’re planning a laid-back day full of real moments, beautiful details, and zero awkward posing:
LET'S TALK
You’re not just booking a supplier. You’re inviting someone into the middle of your story.
I’ll be there for the nerves, the laughter, the beautiful chaos - and I’ll make sure it all feels like you.
Drop me a message, tell me your story, and let’s make something honest and unforgettable.
