One of the biggest advantages of a summer wedding? The light lasts longer. That extra golden hour gives us so many creative options—but it also shifts how I recommend structuring your day.

Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, want sunset portraits, or are debating a first look, here’s how to plan your timeline to make the most of that dreamy summer light.

Why Lighting Matters

Lighting sets the tone for your photos. Harsh midday sun can create shadows and squinting, while late-afternoon or golden hour light is softer, more flattering, and full of warmth. In the summer, sunset is often around 8:30 PM, which gives us more flexibility—but only if your timeline accounts for it.

First Look? Do It.

If your ceremony is outdoors, I highly recommend a first look. It allows us to:

• Photograph portraits before the ceremony when everyone is fresh

• Avoid the harshest sun

• Build in time for a quick reset before guests arrive

• Keep the rest of the day flowing smoothly

Sample 9-Hour Summer Timeline (With First Look + Outdoor Ceremony)

12:00 – 1:00 Flatlay Details, Hair & Makeup

1:00 – 2:15 Getting Ready

2:30 – 3:00 First Look + Some Portraits

3:00 – 3:30 Travel

3:30 – 4:30 Wedding Party + Couple Portraits

4:30 – 5:00 Travel

5:00 – 5:30 Ceremony Details + Guest Arrival

5:30 – 5:50 Outdoor Ceremony

6:00 – 6:30 Family Photos

6:00 – 7:00 Cocktail Hour + Reception Room Photos

7:00 – 7:15 Intros, Cake, Welcome Toast

7:15 – 8:00 Dinner

7:45 – 8:00 Sunset Portraits (sunset at ~8:30)

8:00 – 8:15 First Dances

8:15 – 9:00 Open Dancing, Photo Coverage Ends

Sample 10-Hour Summer Timeline (No First Look + Indoor Ceremony)

10:30 – 11:30 Flatlay Details, Hair & Makeup

11:30 – 1:00 Getting Ready

1:00 – 1:30 Travel

1:30 – 2:00 Ceremony Details + Guest Arrival

2:00 – 3:00 Indoor Ceremony

3:00 – 3:30 Family Photos

3:30 – 4:00 Travel

4:00 – 5:00 Wedding Party + Couple Portraits

5:00 – 5:30 Travel

5:00 – 6:00 Cocktail Hour + Reception Room Photos

6:15 – 6:30 Intros, Cake, Welcome Toast

6:30 – 7:30 Dinner

7:30 – 7:45 Sunset Portraits

7:45 – 8:00 First Dances

8:00 – 8:30 Open Dancing, Photo Coverage Ends

Final Thoughts

Summer weddings give us the gift of light—but using it well comes down to intentional planning. I’ll help you structure your timeline around the sun so you get the best possible portraits and still get to enjoy every part of your day.

Want to talk through what your timeline could look like? I’d love to help.

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