How to Curate a Wedding Day Timeline That Flows—With Real Tips from The Bomanis

After photographing countless weddings up and down the California coast—and especially right here in Santa Barbara and Ventura—we can confidently say that a thoughtful, well-paced timeline is one of the most underrated keys to a relaxed, joyful wedding day.

And while we’re not your planners or florists (we’ll leave that magic to the other pros!), we are there with you from the quietest early moments to your final champagne cheers. Which means we’ve seen what works—and what creates unnecessary stress.

Here’s how we help our couples build timelines that don’t just work logistically… but feel incredible to live through.

1. Start with Your Ceremony Time—and Build Around It

Your ceremony time is the cornerstone of your timeline. Once you know when you’re saying “I do,” everything else can fall into place. As your photographers, we’ll help you work backward from there to ensure there’s enough space for all the must-have moments—from getting ready candids to your golden hour portraits.

If you’re not sure when to schedule your ceremony, reach out! We’re happy to advise based on lighting, season, and the kind of feel you want for your images.

2. Create Buffer Time—Your Future Self Will Thank You

So many couples plan their day down to the minute… and then spend it playing catch-up. Trust us: things run late. Hair takes longer. Buttons are trickier than expected. And your best friend will 100% tear up during the dress reveal.

That’s why we always recommend padding your schedule with breathing room. Even an extra 10 minutes here and there makes a huge difference—and creates space for authentic, unhurried moments to unfold.

3. First Look or No First Look? Let’s Talk About It.

Whether or not to do a first look is a personal decision—but it can have a big impact on your timeline.

A first look allows us to photograph your couple portraits, family formals, and even some wedding party shots before the ceremony, which often frees up your cocktail hour for mingling and connection. That said, some couples love the emotion of seeing each other at the aisle. We’ll support you either way and help build a plan that fits your priorities.

Bonus: A first look also helps calm pre-ceremony jitters. There’s something about locking eyes before the crowd arrives that grounds you in the moment.

4. Let’s Talk Light: Why Sunset Timing Matters

One of the biggest factors in how your wedding photos will look? Light.

If you’re dreaming of soft, golden portraits, we’ll help you time your couple photos around golden hour—typically the hour before sunset. Want that rich glow behind the mountains? Or that cinematic haze over the ocean? Timing is everything.

We’ll collaborate with your planner or coordinator to make sure the light we need aligns beautifully with everything else you’ve planned.

5. Your Photos Reflect How the Day Felt

More than anything, we want you to feel like yourself on your wedding day. That’s why our timeline advice is about more than logistics—it’s about creating space for presence. For peace. For playful flower girl giggles and unexpected hugs and a moment of stillness before the music starts.

We help shape your timeline so we’re not just documenting events, but telling a true story. The kind you’ll feel again when you flip through your album in ten years.

Sample Timeline: For a 5PM Ceremony

Here’s a sample flow we often recommend when couples book us for full-day coverage:

• 12:30 PM – Photo team arrives for details + getting ready

• 2:00 PM – First look + couple portraits

• 3:00 PM – Wedding party + immediate family photos

• 4:15 PM – Touch-ups + guests arrive

• 5:00 PM – Ceremony

• 5:30 PM – Cocktail hour + golden hour portraits

• 6:30 PM – Reception begins

• 8:00 PM – First dance, toasts, open dancing

• 9:30 PM – Grand exit or final dance coverage wrap

Of course, every wedding is unique—and we’ll customize this based on your vision, location, and the story you want your photos to tell.

Your Timeline Should Support Your Memories

You don’t need to have it all figured out—that’s what we’re here for. When you book with The Bomanis, we’ll walk through your ideal flow together, coordinate with your planner or venue team, and make sure the photography experience feels seamless, supportive, and honestly… fun.

Ready to build something beautiful together?

Let’s make it timeless. Let’s make it you.

Warmly,

Quanti & The Bomanis Team