As a luxury photographer serving San Luis Obispo County, Santa Ynez, and Carmel, I know a thing or two about wedding day timeline tips.

Your day should feel unhurried and full of presence—not like a race from one moment to the next. That’s why I work closely with each couple to design timelines that leave room for connection, emotion, and beauty.

Here are five of my go-to tips to help your day flow with ease:

WEDDING DAY TIMELINE THOUGHTS

ONE | Build in Buffer Time for Getting Ready

Hair and makeup delays are one of the most common timeline setbacks—especially in larger estate venues or when working with a group. Giving yourself (and your beauty team) some breathing room helps everyone stay relaxed and present.

That extra time also gives us space to capture intentional, meaningful moments you’ll never want to forget—like your mom zipping up your dress, your bridesmaids seeing you for the first time, or a quiet letter exchange with your partner.

TWO | Consider a First Look

First looks aren’t for everyone—but for many couples, they’re one of the most grounding and intimate parts of the day. It’s a chance to connect privately before the ceremony, calm your nerves, and truly take in the moment together.

From a photography perspective, a first look also allows us to capture more portraits ahead of time, freeing up your post-ceremony schedule. That means more time spent enjoying cocktail hour and mingling with guests—without sacrificing that golden hour magic later in the evening.

THREE | Plan for Sunset Portraits

There’s nothing quite like Central Coast light. Whether you’re overlooking vineyard views in Santa Ynez, surrounded by coastal cliffs in Carmel, or tucked into golden hills in Paso Robles, sunset portraits bring softness, warmth, and a cinematic feel to your gallery.

But that golden light doesn’t last long—so we’ll plan ahead to time it just right. I’ll work with your planner and team to make sure we sneak away for those few magical minutes, without it feeling disruptive or rushed.

FOUR | Streamline Family Portraits

Family portraits are important—but they don’t have to be overwhelming. The key? A simple, well-communicated shot list created before the big day.

We’ll work together to identify groupings that matter most and put them in an order that flows efficiently. That way, no one is searching for Uncle Joe mid-session. Everyone gets back to the celebration as quickly (and happily) as possible.

FIVE | Leave Room for the Unexpected (and the Magical)

Some of the most meaningful moments are the ones you can’t plan for—the spontaneous laughs, the quiet tears, the look on your partner’s face when you walk down the aisle. These moments happen when there’s space to breathe and be present.

Instead of stacking your schedule from start to finish, we’ll build in intentional space throughout the day. It not only helps reduce stress but allows the energy of the day to unfold naturally.

Let’s Create a Day That Feels as Beautiful as It Looks

As your photographer, I’m here for more than just the photos. I’m here to support your experience. From how the timeline flows to how you feel in each moment we document together.

Let’s make it beautiful.
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