Day-of guide
Welcome hour before ceremony — wedding timeline
A welcome hour (pre-ceremony cocktail hour) lets guests arrive early, eat, and mingle before the ceremony starts. Many couples attend in non-wedding attire, then change before the processional.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Hair & makeup begins |
| 12:00 PM | Photographer arrives |
| 2:30 PM | First look & couple portraits |
| 3:00 PM | Welcome hour opens — guests arrive |
| 3:30 PM | Couple joins welcome hour (optional) |
| 3:45 PM | Couple outfit change / hide for ceremony |
| 4:00 PM | Ceremony begins |
| 4:35 PM | Cocktail hour (post-ceremony) |
| 5:35 PM | Reception entrance |
Welcome hour vs. cocktail hour
Welcome hour happens before the ceremony — guests mingle while you may still be finishing photos. Cocktail hour happens after the ceremony while you do photos or receiving line. Some venues use one long drinks period; split them on your timeline so vendors know when to reset food and when you need privacy to change.
Common questions
- How long should a welcome hour last?
- 45–60 minutes is typical. Start guest arrival 60–75 minutes before ceremony so everyone is seated 15–30 minutes before processional.
- Should the couple attend the welcome hour?
- Optional — many couples skip it to preserve the first look at the altar, or attend in a separate outfit (e.g. black dress) then change into wedding attire before the ceremony.
- Is welcome hour the same as cocktail hour?
- No — welcome hour is pre-ceremony; cocktail hour is post-ceremony. Your timeline should list both if you're doing both.