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wedding planning

7 Tips for the Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

A wedding timeline is an essential part of any wedding planning process. It helps to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the big day and that all of the important events happen at the right time. Without a timeline, it is easy for things to fall behind schedule or for important events to be missed altogether.

There are many different ways to create a wedding timeline. Some couples choose to hire a wedding planner to help them create a detailed timeline, while others prefer to do it themselves. There are also many online resources that can help you create a timeline.

Tip #1 - Consider the Logistics

  • The time of day and date of your wedding

  • The location of your wedding

  • The number of guests you are expecting

  • The type of wedding you are having (traditional, casual, etc.)

  • The budget you have set for your wedding

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to put together a timeline that works for you and your partner. It is important to be flexible with your timeline, as things may not always go according to plan on the day of your wedding. However, having a timeline will help to ensure that you are prepared for anything and that you can enjoy your special day without stress.

Tip #2 - Make Your Day, Your Day

Your wedding day is unique, as it should be. No two weddings are the same so why should you copy someone else’s timeline. Make your day, your day! Start from scratch and keep it vague so you have room to add details as planning continues. Consider how much time your photographer will be at the wedding and decide when you want them to arrive and leave AND what events you want captured during that time.

Below are the “bare-bone timelines” I suggest to my wedding clients based upon each package we offer.

Tip #3 - Create Buffers

Make sure to leave some time as a buffer for those unexpected things that you didn’t plan for, such as signing the marriage certificate, bustling your dress, restroom breaks, etc. If you plan everything too tightly you will more than likely fall behind at some point during your wedding day.

Tip #4 - Let Them Eat and Drink…Unless You Need Them to Stick Around

At some point you will more than likely have a designated portrait time. During this time it is VERY important that guests continue to the reception area UNLESS they will be in the photographs. This will keep the distractions to a minimum, but more importantly keep everyone out of the photographer’s way so they aren’t in your portraits. Portrait time is about 30 minutes and during this time you don’t want your guests sitting there with nothing to do. Instead let them begin eating and drinking so they’re ready to celebrate upon your arrival.

Tip #5 - Share Your Timeline

Once your timeline is finalized, share it with the vendors - especially the photographer, videographer and music/entertainment. These vendors are vital in keeping your wedding day on schedule.

Tip #6 - Do Not Underestimate the Importance of Your Timeline

It is important to create a wedding timeline as it is an essential part of the planning process and will help to ensure that your special day is everything you have dreamed of. Here are some of the benefits of having a wedding timeline:

  • It helps to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of your wedding.

  • It helps to prevent important events from being missed.

  • It helps to keep you and your guests on schedule.

  • It can help you to save money by avoiding last-minute expenses.

  • It can help you to reduce stress on the day of your wedding.

Tip #7 - Have FUN!!

This is a huge milestone for you! It can certainly be stressful, but with some planning it can be a manageable task that will be the framework for your wedding day. Take time to breathe. Take time to reflect on what YOU want your day to look like and figure out HOW to make that happen. And have FUN!!

sample timelines

These are sample timelines based upon the wedding packages that we offer at Smith Family Photography.

** If you’re planning a First Look, plan for that to take about 30 minutes.

Just for fun!

Just a funny, short video about wedding planning. **contains some language.**

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Ultimate Guide to Wedding Planning in Limestone County

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The ring is on your finger and the sparkles are in your eyes! There’s SO much to do to get ready for your big day! Where do you even begin? You should enjoy this journey rather than feel overwhelmed as you plan. By breaking down each step and working through the process step by step it should be far less overwhelming.

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Wedding Planning can definitely be overwhelming! I’ve seen it firsthand for many brides. I recently came across a website with an awesome FREE wedding planning checklist that can be helpful for brides - no matter the length of your engagement.

To help further your planning, I have compiled a list of wonderful vendors that service Limestone County. These vendors have been highly recommended by my wonderful brides.

Limestone County Vendors

Venue

  • Springfield Hall. Our venue is packed full of charm and character promising you the perfect spot for your big day or any special occasion you are planning. With each booking at Springfield Hall you gain access to our Hall, Patio and Pavilion, giving you the flexibility you need for your unique event. On site we also have a full kitchen available for your catering needs. Please contact our team for pricing and availability.

  • Old Fort Parker Historic Site. A historic venue with a visitor center and cabins that can be rented for your guests. Please contact for pricing and availability.

  • Groesbeck Convention Center. The City of Groesbeck Convention Center has just opened its new, spacious and modern facilities for all types of Events and Meetings.  The beautifully decorated building consists of a 5000 square foot Grand Hall, a 1300 square foot Club Room and an outside Veranda.  The Groesbeck Convention Center is the largest City Owned facility available for rent, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere. You can call, text or email the convention center for pricing and availability.

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DJ Service

  • Colby Blacknall. My name is Colby Blacnall! My DJ name is DJ Huggie Bear and I have been a DJ since 2004. As a wedding DJ, I offer a fun-filled day with non-stop dancing and excitement! In my DJ career I have working more than 100 ceremonies. I come highly recommended and my rates are very reasonable. I offer a variety of music for all events. If you book with me you will not be disappointed! Contact DJ Huggie Bear for your next event - 254-203-8180.

  • Willie High. My name is Willie High my DJ name is DJ Guy - High Life Entertainment. I have been offering DJ services for 20 years and have worked over 300 weddings and other events in my career as a DJ. I provide party lighting as well. Contact DJ Guy for your DJ needs.

Catering

  • Mookie’s Mesquite Patch BBQ. We are a family owned and ran small barbeque restaurant. We keep a simple, traditional style Texas Barbeque menu with amazing brisket, mouth watering ribs, super delicious sausage and sandwiches. We are full of hometown value and hospitality, we enjoy being a part of the Limestone County Community.

  • Farm House Restaurant. Farm House is a locally owned business that has been a full service restaurant and caterer for over 19 years serving some of the finest southern style food at our facility within a 70 mile radius. We offer a Banquet Hall that seats up to 120 people that is separate from the noise of the restaurant. We also have another room, The Party Room, that seats up to 50 people. Both of these can be great for rehearsal dinners and gives the parties the most options for food and beverages! Farm House will come to you and serve your guests through a line making their hot plates while your guests grab their silverware and tea. Once everyone is fed, our staff will bus tables by gathering plates, silverware and refilling drinks. We clean up after ourselves so you don’t have to do any of the work. We can also have servers ready for an additional fee if you’d rather have guests served instead of going through the line. You can contact us by calling 254-472-0512 or 254-855-8161 or by emailing us at farmhousejl@gmail.com

  • Billy B’s Sale Barn Cafe. Billy B’s Sale Barn Cafe is locally owned and operated by Billy and Brinda Brown since 1994. We serve southern comfort staples and all is freshly homemade just like grandma would have made. Our atmosphere is very casual - just good country folks! Cattle are auctioned every Thursday. Our friendly staff will greet you at the door with a smile and if you’re a regular, they may have your sweet tea on the table waiting for you. Billy B’s has been nominated business of the year and has won several “best of awards” and has even been featured on The Texas Bucket List. Contact us at 254-729-2253.

  • Los Pepe’s - Tex Mex Bar and Grill. Serving Tex-Mex food since 1987. From our family to yours. Contact Erick Mancha for your catering needs.

  • 7 Diaz Tacos & More. We are a family owned and operated business. We are based in Teague, but serve Limestone and Freestone County area and events year-round. Our menu consists of authentic Mexican food. Our menu staples are our quesabirria tacos and elote. Chicken or beef fajitas and street tacos are also very popular options. The best way to contact us is via email 7DiazTacos@gmail.com. We would love to serve you!

Bakery

  • D’Angelos Homemade Cake & Treats. My name is Brittany D’Angelo. I am a local baker that makes specialty cakes, wedding cakes, event cakes, cake pops, cupcakes, chocolate covered treats and more! I have a cake stand and trays that can be borrowed. I would love to help you out with your special occasion needs! Give me a call at 254-645-0519 or find my page on Facebook - D’Angelos Homemade Goodies

  • Katy’s Savory Treats. Hi my name is Katy Farris, I’m the owner of Katy’s Savory Treats. I do everything in my power to make your dream cake come true! My specialties are confetti & red velvet, I also offer cupcakes, cookies and more. And I would be honored to help make your vision come true with any special occasion! Contact me at 254-447-3254 or my page on Facebook at Katy’s Savory Treats.

  • My Dream Cakes. Hello! My name is Toni Gonzalez, owner and operator of My Dream Cakes in Mexia TX. I am a baker and cake decorator since 2005. I offer all occasions cakes and cupcakes. My Dream Cakes is on Facebook, all my creations are there, hundreds of cakes that I have made over the years. You can contact me at 818-272-0604

  • Baked With Grace Baking Co. Hey y’all, I’m Haley! I started baking as a hobby about 4 years ago and it’s turned into an incredible home baking business. My goal is to have a bakery in our small town at some point in time. My name is not Grace and neither is my middle name, so I’m sure it’s been wondered where that came into play. My Memaws name was Grace, she passed away 7 years ago, and I always associate baking with my Memaw. I have a wonderful supportive husband and 2 wild kiddos that keep me busy in my “spare time”. I do it all from simple "just because" cakes and cookies to weddings with cakes and cupcakes to feed 100’s. I believe everyone needs a little something sweet every now and then just because, I also believe a yummy homemade cake is much more than just a box cake and some icing from a tub. I make everything from scratch and with lots of love. I would love to help with whatever event you have, big or small! Please contact me to discuss your dessert needs!

  • Jerri’s Cakes & Treats. I’ve been baking and decorating cakes for 40 plus years. I worked in food service management for over 25 years. I retired in January of 2022 to do my dream job of cakes and treats full time. I bake cakes, cupcakes, cookies for weddings, birthdays and any special occasions. I offer tastings for brides and up to 4 people at no extra charge when ordering their cake. We are located between Mexia and Groesbeck in the Forest Glade Community. For more information please contact me via phone or Facebook.

Makeup and Hair artists

  • Hair & Makeup by Meredith McClinton. Hello Beauties! My name is Meredith McClinton and I am so happy you found me on this page! First of all, CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement! I am beyond excited for you and your fiancé for this next step into your lives! I have been a cosmetologist for almost 7 years and have worked well over 100 weddings! I am a makeup artist and hairstylist and can travel to any location. I take my job extremely serious and want this part of wedding planning to be 100% stress free. If you have any questions I would love to hear from you! You can contact me via phone at 254-424-5608, Facebook and Instagram.

  • Bella Vida Spa. My name is Kristin Nichols and I own Bella Vida Spa. I am a licensed Esthetician and I offer professional facial services with and medical grade product line called Dermaquest. I also offer various facial services such as microdermabrasion, derma plane and more! Facials to reach your soul, not just your face! Regular facials promote a healthy you - Get Your Glow On! Contact me at 903-644-8459.

  • Breathless Beauty Bridal. Hi There! My name is Taylor Johnson and I own “Breathless Beauty Bridal”! Congratulations on your engagement! I would love to be considered for any hair needs. I’m a licensed cosmetologist for 6+ years and specializing in Wedding Hair for 2 years and absolutely LOVE it!! It’s my goal to bring peace and beauty to YOU and your bridal party on your most special day. I travel directly to your location as well. You can contact me through my personal phone number (281) 799-1093 OR my Facebook page “Breathless Beauty Bridal”. I look forward to working with you!

  • Chelle’s Beauty Co. Hello all! My name is Asha Dansby. I am a local makeup artist. I truly believe every woman is beautiful, but every now and then it’s okay to enhance that beauty with the power of a little makeup. I decided to turn something I love to do into a side gig and what a wonderful journey it has been. If you decide to choose me as your makeup artist, thank you in advance. I can be contacted at 903-390-4098, Facebook and Instagram. P.S. If you’re also looking to get fit or slimmer before your big day, I am also a certified personal trainer, Fitness With Chelle. I can be contacted at the same number above.

  • Make-Up by Giselle. Hi, my name is Giselle Vasquez! Welcome to my world of beauty and transformation! I am a passionate and skilled traveling makeup artist, dedicated to bringing out the best version of you wherever you may be. With years of experience and a keen eye for detail, I specialize in creating stunning looks that enhance your natural features and make you feel confident and radiant. Please contact me to discuss your make-up needs!

  • Samsglampro. "Hey there! I'm Samuel Palacios, a Traveling Makeup Maestro with a decade of experience under my belt. I'm all about those wedding vibes, creating dreamy looks that make brides feel like the queens they are. Let's embark on this glam journey together! You can contact me through Facebook at Samsglampro.

Videography

  • Monica Hurst Productions. “Capturing Your Special Moments to Replay for Forever.” I specialize in wedding videography, lifestyle films, marketing and more. I provide a fun, relaxed experience throughout your big day to ensure the most important moments are captured, the laughter and love throughout the day is heard, and your vision comes to life through a beautiful cinematic film. Bring your wedding day to life over and over with professional audio and video! All wedding packages include 2 videographers. Custom quotes available. Contact us to set up your perfect package via phone at 979-777-8274 or check out our website.

  • Wandering Armadillo Productions. I have been doing video work for about 5 years now, most weddings are around 2k, this includes day of wedding shooting, as well as the edit/final video(s). I can also provide full sound production, mics, speakers, DJ services, live band bookings, etc. I also own a venue in downtown Teague (Teague Farmers Market) it’s a 5k square foot outdoor venue with cafe lights strung throughout with a professional sound system. For more information, please contact me at Sidlett@gmail.com or 903-390-3594.

Florist

  • Rusty Rose

wedding planner

Mobile bar/bartenders

  • The Velvet Vaquera. Hi! My name is Meagan Lott and I am the owner of the Velvet Vaquera Mobile Bar. We specialize in craft cocktails and customer service. With many years in the industry and a reputable business background, we guarantee to provide a memorable experience whatever the occasion might be. It’s always a pleasure to bring the party to your event whether that be with the mobile bar trailer itself or bartenders solely. Contact us today to learn more about our packages, availability, and pricing! Stay Rowdy!

Other vendors

  • AJW Leather Works. Howdy! My name is Adam Wasden, I am the owner and leatherman behind AJW Leather Works, but more than likely you will be chatting with my wife when placing your order. We make one of a kind pieces for your upcoming wedding day such as a bouquet wrap, garter, belt for your groomsmen or even an extra touch for your wedding dress. Please contact us on Facebook or 254-275-7358.

If you know of any other vendors that would like to be included in this guide, please feel free to send me their information via email at ajsmithfamilyphotography@gmail.com

“A wedding is a party, not a performance. If at the end of the day you are married to the one you love, then everything went perfectly.”
— unknown

Number One Tip for Planning Your Own Wedding

“You don’t need eyes to see, you need vision.”
— unknown

With the average cost of a wedding in Texas being $30,200 it’s no wonder why so many couples are choosing to plan their own wedding to save money - especially during a pandemic. Personally I love the small, quaint weddings that I have had the pleasure of photographing this year. Most of the couples I have photographed this year had larger, more elaborate weddings planned, but instead took a step back and kept things much smaller and simpler. It’s amazing how each couple accomplished this as they all did it differently.

Jacob and Hannah

April 10, 2020 was a day that many were anxiously awaiting. This was the day that Jacob and Hannah would exchange vows in front of their family and friends. The anticipated wedding was originally going to take place at a stunning venue in Axtell, Texas, however something completely unexpected happened - COVID-19. Everyone hoped for the pandemic to be over by this date. But that did not happen. The venue cancelled, along with many of the vendors. This wedding was definitely going to happen on April 10th - no matter what!

There was a change in plans.

Jacob and Hannah had a small ceremony outdoors with their family and closest friends in attendance.

Jacob and Hannah had a small ceremony outdoors with their family and closest friends in attendance.

Mike and Mysti

Mysti contacted me asking if I would photograph their wedding. Of course I said I would love to! During 2019 the plan took off in many directions as they explored all the awesome venues - one was even an old caboose! At one point they decided on an elopement on a cruise trip, but Mike’s family would not be thrilled about missing their big day. As their plans changed so did their family’s plans. One of the daughter’s was going to join the navy after graduation and they definitely wanted her to be in the bridal party so they made plans for a backyard wedding in Mexia, Texas before she left for the military. But then the completely unexpected happen…COVID - 19!

Texas was suddenly under a shelter in place order and no one knew how long that would last. The days turned into weeks. The weeks turned into months. How much longer could this possibly go on?? Slowly the state began to reopen, but there were still restrictions in place. One such restriction was the amount of people in one gathering. That definitely put a damper on wedding plans!

One day Mysti messaged me and said she was so over all the planning and waiting on restrictions to lift that her and Mike decided to have a simple family wedding before her daughter left to the navy so instead of the typical wedding photograph she wanted to trash her dress. And that is exactly what we planned - complete with a cake fight (after sanitizing hands) and lots of toilet paper!

Mike and Mysti’s wedding day was definitely not what they originally planned, but they definitely created crazy memories to cherish forever!

Mike and Mysti’s wedding day was definitely not what they originally planned, but they definitely created crazy memories to cherish forever!

Michael and Dana

The Fourth of July was a very hot day in Satin, Texas where Dana and Michael would exchange vows in front of their family and a few close friends at Moon River Ranch. The venue was absolutely picture perfect! The wedding was so special with all their thoughtful touches to make the entire evening about their strong relationship surrounded by the love of God and the love of their family. Many happy tears were shed, as well as lots of shared laughter.

Their pastor officiated the ceremony. Their counselor led them through braiding the three stands. Their parents sat in the front row fully supporting the union. Their children surrounded them as they were the bridal party. The ring pillow was made by Michael’s mother. Michael wore his grandfather’s bolo tie. Dana had her grandmother’s broach fastened to her bouquet. Sparklers sent the newlyweds off. Flags were waved for their love of America. But perhaps the most moving part of the entire ceremony was when the DJ played a song Michael’s daughter sang, the cover to Ocean Eyes. She could not be in attendance due to COVID travel restrictions. For that entire song, everyone just listened.

Their wedding is truly one to be remembered.

Michael and Dana had a small, intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Since it was a smaller ceremony they were able to spend so much time dancing and enjoying their special day.

Michael and Dana had a small, intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Since it was a smaller ceremony they were able to spend so much time dancing and enjoying their special day.

John and Lori

Lori and John met casually as she knew of his family and she was a Facebook suggestion of his. Due to COVID-19, their first date was at John’s father’s house. They grilled steaks and watched a movie while they started to learn more about each other. This first date, although casual, was the start of something beautiful. Eventually John proposed to Lori on a rainy day in the post office parking lost in Mexia, Texas.

The shelter in place order provided both of them with lots of time together. They were able to drive around and check cattle during the day and in the evening cuddle up on the couch to watch some television together. The soon discovered that they are each other’s Twin Flame!

John and Lori exchanged vows at Springfield Hall in Groesbeck. Their small wedding was full of classy details that were evident throughout the venue.

John and Lori exchanged vows at Springfield Hall in Groesbeck. Their small wedding was full of classy details that were evident throughout the venue.

Antone and Sarah

I loved every bit of their wedding day, but my favorite part was the first look. Sarah really wanted to have a first look portion of the day and felt strongly that it was going to be just the two of them enjoying each other for a brief moment during their busy day. We decided that Sarah would be in the barn and Antone would be on the front step just outside the front door. Sarah would slowly push the doors open and walk up to Antone, cover his eyes and slowly turn him around so he could see her in the dress as his gorgeous bride. As she slowly spun him around and he looked at her, his eyes began to swell with tears. It was truly an emotional moment shared between the two of them.

Afterwards they moved onto family and bridal party portraits before the ceremony. This would allow them to be a part of their reception from the very beginning. These two put so much thought into the flow of the day. Everything was planned with intention.

Antone and Sarah had the largest wedding of the year at Leatherberry Oaks in Aquilla. These two focused on their guests and making sure the day flowed well to maximize the time they could spend with them.

Antone and Sarah had the largest wedding of the year at Leatherberry Oaks in Aquilla. These two focused on their guests and making sure the day flowed well to maximize the time they could spend with them.

Luis and Alena

On October 10, 2020 Alena and Luis would tie the knot and officially become Mr. and Mrs. Guzman at Springfield Hall in Groesbeck, Texas on a very warm, sunny day. The wedding was decorated in purple, lavender and white with many small touches to make the event very classy.

They had a backdrop set up for a photo booth, complete with props. They had several yard games for guests to enjoy - corn hole and connect four to name a few. Their guest book was a “Jenga Guestbook.,” in which painted blocks were written on for stacking. These two thought of so many details to make their big day truly enjoyable for all in attendance!

Luis and Alena had a small wedding at Springfield Hall in Groesbeck. They personalized so much for their big day and showed their guests just how much they appreciated them.

Luis and Alena had a small wedding at Springfield Hall in Groesbeck. They personalized so much for their big day and showed their guests just how much they appreciated them.

Number ONE Tip

As you can see, each and every one of these weddings kept things simple, yet classy and unique. No two weddings were the same, yet they were alike in one way.

Each of these couples took the time to create a vision. They had an idea of what their wedding should look like and how the day should flow. They took it a step further. They put things out and moved them around to make sure everything was perfect. They stood back and took a second look. A third look. Many more looks! Each time looking for anything that was a distraction,. They made sure that everything was in a place that made sense, flowed well and would look beautiful in the photographs.

When planning your own wedding, draw a simple map taking into account how you want the day to flow. It’s up to you to direct your guests where to go. At each area (guest book, cake, alter, etc.), step back and make a square with your fingers, imagining that you are taking a photograph. What do you see? Is it as beautiful as you envisioned? Or is there something distracting the viewer?

When in doubt, ask the professionals that you have hired…like Smith Family Photography :)

Mention this gift voucher to save $100!

Mention this gift voucher to save $100!