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Savannah
Dedicated October 2009

How long is ceremony supposed to last???

Savannah, on June 22, 2009 at 1:50 PM Posted in Planning 0 7

Ok, I have an odd question. We have our ceremony/ reception place from 5 til 10pm. What time should I have the wedding start? And how long is it supposed to last? I told our caterer to get there at 5pm, and that the reception would start at 6:30. Now im wondering if I should have them arrive a little earlier and maybe the reception should start earlier. I need help!!

7 Comments

Latest activity by southerngirl, on June 22, 2009 at 3:45 PM
  • W
    Master June 2010
    wowjunkie ·
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    My parent's said theirs was 15 minutes, most I've been to are about 30-45 minutes. I was at one that lasted an hour and about shot someone, it drug on forever (with unpadded pews)! So basically as long or short as you want it to last!

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  • Savannah
    Dedicated October 2009
    Savannah ·
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    That what I thought. I figured about 15-20 minutes for the ceremony. I was debating on whether or not to do the pictures before the whole thing or in between the ceremony and reception. Is it normal to do it in between things? I'm so confused,lol.

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  • Nene517
    Dedicated October 2009
    Nene517 ·
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    I spoke to my pastor yesterday it should take about 30 minutes plus the time it will take for the pictures before/after

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  • Shell
    Master June 2009
    Shell ·
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    Wedding ceremony about 40 minuets from the time ur mom is seated, untill you kiss and walk out. then allow about an hour+ for pictures, and head off to the reception :]

    thats about what my timeline is :]

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  • Tomi Phoenix
    Tomi Phoenix ·
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    Hi, Savannah!

    A ceremony to be up to 35 to 60 minutes (tops!) is pretty normal. As for photos, you have the option to take pictures before the ceremony with your husband-to-be & bridal party to get it out of the way & then concentrate on family photos after the ceremony. If you want to stick with tradition & not want your husband-to-be to see you in your dress before you walk down the aisle, then you can opt for bridal party/grooms party separate photos & then do your couple & family shots after the ceremony. You can also take photos of you & your bridesmaids getting ready before the ceremony & groom/groomsmen putting their jackets on or getting their boutonnieres pinned on.

    Hope this helps you! Smiley winking

    Tomi Phoenix (Phoenix Designer Events, LA & OC-Calif.)

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  • Theodore St. Pierre
    Theodore St. Pierre ·
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    Our ceremonies are about 20 minutes, depending on readings, songs, sand ceremony, unity candle or other things. The more you include the longer it lasts. The hour long ceremonies are usually in churches and include lots of bible readings and a sermon. Reception site ceremonies are much shorter and the beach ceremonies in the summer here in Florida are as quick as I can make them before someone passes out from the heat. Talk to your officiant and you should get a clearer idea of how long yours will last.

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  • southerngirl
    Super December 2009
    southerngirl ·
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    If people are debating about whether they want their FH to see them before the wedding here is an idea: Set up a location in the building where your FH will see you for the first time (it could be at the altar or in a private room). Bring your photographer along to catch his expression and enjoy a few minutes together alone before the hectic day and photo sessions begin. You will still both be very excited when you walk down that aisle towards him and have the added bonus of a few quiet moments with him prior to that.

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