Planning your wedding day should be as joyful and exciting as the day itself! At Bonita Ranch, we understand the importance of having a timeline that ensures your special day runs smoothly. From getting ready to the grand exit, here’s how to create a timeline that guarantees you’ll get the most out of your wedding day at Bonita Ranch, the most unique wedding and event venue in Melbourne, Florida.
1. Getting Ready: Start your day on the right foot by allowing your planner or day-of coordinator to handle the setup and greet your guests. This will give you the freedom to enjoy your getting-ready time. Make sure to ask your venue for a bridal suite that’s either in the same building or close to the ceremony site. This way, you can avoid exposing your hair and makeup to the weather.
Capture fun and memorable pictures with your bridesmaids in those adorable matching robes. These photos are not only cute but will also make your besties feel special as you prepare to transition into married life.
Don’t forget about the groom! He and his groomsmen should also have a space to get ready, ideally close to the ceremony site. Capture moments of them helping each other with ties or cufflinks—these shots are both meaningful and stylish.
2. Pre-Ceremony Photos: If you’re planning a first look, schedule it about 1 hour before the ceremony. This allows you to capture intimate moments together and with your bridal party, reducing the number of photos needed after the ceremony.
3. Ceremony: A typical wedding ceremony should last around 20-30 minutes, including the processional, vows, and recessional. Coordinate with your officiant to ensure the timing flows smoothly. Your guests will appreciate the pacing, keeping the energy high as they transition to the next part of the day.
4. Cocktail Hour and Post-Ceremony Photos: After the ceremony, your guests can enjoy a cocktail hour in Bonita Ranch’s Mediterranean courtyard while you and your partner take additional photos as newlyweds. If you’ve already taken some first-look photos, you’ll have time to take a few more, mingle briefly during cocktail hour, and then retreat to one of our getting-ready suites before guests are invited to the reception area. This allows you to make a grand entrance when everyone is seated, creating a memorable moment for both you and your guests.
5. Reception: Make a grand entrance into your reception with style! Bonita Ranch offers stunning features like a grand balcony and stairs, perfect for an unforgettable entrance. Throughout the reception, bring your eco-friendly spirit to life with sustainable table settings, like Bonita Ranch’s #FromNurserytoTable natural greenery.
6. Post-Reception Send-Off: End your day on a high note with a grand exit. Whether you choose ribbon wands, flowers, bells, or another fun and eco-friendly send-off, schedule it toward the end of the reception so your photographer can capture those last magical moments, and your guests get to celebrate with you until the end.
Other Tips:
– Buffer Time: Include buffer times in your schedule to account for any unexpected delays.
– Vendor Coordination: Ensure all vendors are aware of your preferences and timeline to keep everything flowing smoothly.
– Delegate: Assign someone you trust or a day-of coordinator to oversee the timeline, allowing you to relax and enjoy your day.
– Be Flexible: The most important thing is to celebrate the beginning of your new family life. Use your timeline as a guide for you and your vendors to know how the different moments will flow, but be flexible enough to allow for those magical moments or unexpected changes that can positively contribute to starting your married life on the right foot.
By incorporating eco-friendly ideas into your wedding timeline, you can celebrate your love while also honoring the environment and protecting your family’s future. At Bonita Ranch, Melbourne’s only Mediterranean-style wedding and event venue, we’re here to help you create a day that’s as beautiful as it is sustainable. Happy planning!
