The Perfect Timeline for Micro Weddings & Elopements: A Guide to Small Hourly Wedding Packages

Planning a micro wedding or an elopement is all about simplicity and intimacy. Unlike traditional full-day weddings that require extensive timelines, small wedding packages ranging from 3 to 5 hours of coverage need a different approach. If you’re wondering how to create the perfect timeline for your short and sweet wedding day, this guide is for you!

Why Full-Day Wedding Timelines Don’t Apply

Most wedding planning guides focus on 8- to 10-hour wedding days, including everything from getting ready to the grand exit. However, micro weddings and elopements often prioritize only the most meaningful moments—whether it’s the ceremony, a short reception, or a stunning portrait session at a scenic location. Instead of trying to cram a full-day timeline into a few hours, it’s important to be strategic about what’s captured.

How to Create a Timeline for a Micro Wedding or Elopement

When planning a shorter wedding coverage, consider the following:

• Prioritize Key Moments: Every wedding day is unique, and micro weddings require couples to choose what matters most. Whether it’s the intimate getting-ready moments, an emotional first look, the heartfelt ceremony, or a small reception with close family and friends, deciding what deserves priority ensures that the photographer captures the most meaningful parts of your day.
• Keep Travel Time in Mind: If your wedding involves multiple locations, such as getting ready in one place, the ceremony at another, and portraits somewhere else, it’s essential to factor in travel time. Even short distances can cause delays, especially in urban areas with traffic or if additional setup time is needed at each location. Planning accordingly prevents unnecessary stress and allows for a smoother experience.
• Communicate with Vendors: Coordination with your officiant, planner, florist, and other vendors is key to keeping everything on schedule. Ensuring that everyone involved is aware of your timeline can help avoid last-minute surprises. For example, if your florist knows when the bouquet needs to be ready, or your officiant understands the ceremony timing, it keeps everything running seamlessly.
• Schedule Buffer Time: Weddings don’t always go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! A little buffer time between events allows for unexpected delays, whether it’s fixing a wardrobe issue, adjusting to unforeseen weather, or simply enjoying spontaneous moments. Adding extra time into your schedule helps keep things relaxed and enjoyable rather than rushed and stressful.

Sample Timelines for 3, 4, and 5 Hours of Coverage

3-Hour Wedding Coverage (Best for simple elopements or courthouse weddings)

• 2:00 PM – Getting Ready & Details (30 minutes)
• 2:30 PM – First Look & Couple Portraits (30 minutes)
• 3:00 PM – Ceremony (30 minutes)
• 3:30 PM – Family & Group Portraits (30 minutes)
• 4:00 PM – Candid Moments & Mini Reception Coverage (30 minutes)
• 5:00 PM – Photographer Departs

4-Hour Wedding Coverage (Best for intimate weddings with a small reception)

• 1:30 PM – Getting Ready & Details (45 minutes)
• 2:15 PM – First Look & Couple Portraits (45 minutes)
• 3:00 PM – Ceremony (30 minutes)
• 3:30 PM – Family & Group Portraits (30 minutes)
• 4:00 PM – Reception Begins (Cake Cutting, Toasts, First Dance) (60 minutes)
• 5:30 PM – Photographer Departs

5-Hour Wedding Coverage (Best for micro weddings with more reception coverage)

• 12:30 PM – Getting Ready & Details (60 minutes)
• 1:30 PM – First Look & Couple Portraits (45 minutes)
• 2:15 PM – Ceremony (30 minutes)
• 2:45 PM – Family & Group Portraits (30 minutes)
• 3:15 PM – Reception Begins (Cake Cutting, Toasts, First Dance) (75 minutes)
• 4:30 PM – Open Dancing & Candid Moments (30 minutes)
• 5:30 PM – Photographer Departs

Final Thoughts

Micro weddings and elopements allow couples to focus on what truly matters—each other. By choosing an hourly package, you can still capture all the meaningful moments without the stress of an all-day event. With the right timeline in place, your wedding day will flow beautifully and be documented with care.

Are you planning a micro wedding or elopement? Let’s create the perfect timeline together! Reach out to book your small wedding photography package today.