I often asked by my clients about how to create the best Bali wedding timeline to optimize photo result. Building a great and structured Bali wedding timeline is so important to ensure you don’t get overheated by Bali weather on your wedding day. (Trust me it doesn’t feel great!) As you know Bali is so hot and humid throughout the year. Here is the Bali wedding timeline/rundown that I recommend and has been used by most Bali wedding planner that I’ve worked with!
2 p.m. Photographer Arrives
The Bali wedding photographer should arrive about one hour before the bride is ready. During this time, the photographer can get detail shots of the dress, rings, invitation, etc.
Images from: Bali Wedding at Villa Plenilunio
3:00 p.m. bridal party, bride and groom getting ready photos
Usually, there will be group photos of the girls in robes. The bridal party helps the groom and the bride getting ready. Put on your veil after the dress. Consider asking your stylist to stick around until then to make sure your veil is secure.
Images from: Bali Wedding at Ombak Biru Villa
3:30 p.m. Bridal Portrait
4.00 p.m. Guest Arrives
4.15 p.m. Ceremony
This is the time block that varies most for weddings in Bali. The time really depends on the type of ceremony you’re having. But most of the time the ceremony will last around 20 minutes. Start by Groomsmen and Groom walking to the ceremony area. Followed by Bridesmaid and Brides together with Father of The Brides.
4.45 p.m. Photo Groups
Ensure you have the list of group photos handed to the planner or emcee.
5 p.m. Sunset Photos
This is the best timing for sunset photos in Bali where the lighting is golden and soft. Sunset photos are definitely an opportunity you don’t want to miss out on!
6.30 p.m. Bride and Groom Touch Up for Receptions
7 p.m. Grand Entrances
7.10 p.m. Welcome Toast, Dinner and Speech
8.30 p.m. Cake Cutting
Cake cutting is best after the dinner, followed by bouquet toss and garter toss (if desired). This is also a good time for the bride and groom to say a few words and thank their guests for coming.
Images from: Bali Wedding at Arnalaya Villa
9 p.m. First Dance
Most couples choose to have their first dance after the final course of food is served. Typically, this is followed by the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance if these traditions are being incorporated. Some couples prefer to sprinkle dancing in between courses of food, in which case, the first dance would follow the service of the first course. Others have their first dance as soon as they enter the reception. You have a lot of choices!
9.15 p.m.
Dance until the night ends and jumps to the pool! Most of the venue or resort in Bali won’t allow loud music after 10-11 p.m.
You can also use this sample Bali wedding timeline as a guide to creating your own!
