Choosing the perfect ceremony start time for your wedding in Northwest Arkansas is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It sets the tone for the entire day and impacts everything from photography to guest comfort. Here’s what you need to consider to make the best choice for your big day!
1. Consider the Season and Sunset Time
The time of year plays a huge role in determining your wedding ceremony time. If you’re dreaming of golden-hour portraits, research the sunset time on your wedding date. Fall and winter weddings will have an earlier sunset, meaning an earlier ceremony time may be necessary to capture natural light photos.
Spring Weddings (March-May)
Spring and fall are two of the most popular seasons for weddings in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri, thanks to the mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. However, sunset times shift throughout these months, so it’s crucial to time your ceremony accordingly.
- Ideal Ceremony Start Time: 3:45 PM – 5:30 PM
- Sunset Considerations: In early spring, the sun can set as early as 6:00 PM, while in late-season, it may be closer to 8:00/ 8:30 PM.
- Pro Tip: If you’re not doing a first look, aim for a ceremony time that allows 1.5 to 2 hours of portraits afterward before it gets dark.
Summer Weddings (June-August)
Summer weddings offer the longest daylight hours, giving you more flexibility. However, Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri summers can also be hot and humid, so avoiding the peak heat of the day is important for everyone’s comfort.
- Ideal Ceremony Start Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Sunset Considerations: The sun starts to set between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM in the summer. If you’re skipping a first look, plan for your ceremony to end no later than 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM to ensure you have at least an hour and a half of daylight for photos.
- Bonus: A later ceremony helps avoid the hottest part of the day, keeping everyone more comfortable.
Fall Weddings (September-November)
Fall is the busiest season for weddings in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, thanks to fall foliage and mild temperatures. However, daylight savings time is in November, so it’s crucial to time your ceremony accordingly.
- Ideal Ceremony Start Time: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
- Sunset Considerations: In early fall, the sun can set as late as 7:40 PM, while in late-season, it may be as early as 5:00 PM.
Winter Weddings (December-February)
Winter weddings in Northwest Arkansas can be magical, but the days are significantly shorter. With sunset happening as early as 5:00 PM, it’s critical to plan ahead if you want natural light photos.
- Ideal Ceremony Start Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
- Sunset Considerations: Sunset can be as early as 4:45 PM in December, meaning an earlier ceremony is a must if you want good lighting for your portraits afterward.
2. Think About Your Timeline
Your ceremony time should fit seamlessly into the rest of your wedding day. Consider:
- Getting Ready Time: Make sure you have enough time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed.
- First Look or Pre-Ceremony Photos: If you’re doing a first look, you can start the ceremony later. If you are not doing a first look then the rule of thumb is that your wedding photographer will need 1.5 to 2 hours of daylight after the ceremony to capture family, bridal party, and couple portraits.
- Reception Start Time: Work backward to determine the ideal ceremony time if your wedding reception starts at a set time.
- Food You are Serving: The type of food you’re serving at your wedding can influence your ceremony start time, especially in relation to guest expectations and meal timing. If you’re offering a full buffet or plated dinner, a later ceremony allows for a seamless transition into the reception meal. A dessert bar or heavy appetizers, on the other hand, may be better suited for an earlier ceremony, so guests aren’t expecting a full dinner afterward. Planning your start time with your food service in mind ensures a smooth flow and keeps guests comfortable.
3. Religious or Cultural Considerations
Some traditions or religious ceremonies have specific times that are considered auspicious or customary. Be sure to consult with your officiant if this applies to your wedding.
4. Venue Restrictions
Some venues may require you to finish by a certain hour. Confirm these details before finalizing your schedule.
5. Personal Preferences
Ultimately, your wedding should reflect what feels right for you. Whether you want a relaxed morning brunch wedding or a glamorous evening affair, choose a time that aligns with your vision.
Timeline Examples
(With no first look with bridesmaids and groomsmen portraits done before the ceremony)
March-October Mid March-Mid October
4:00-4:30: Ceremony 4:45-5:15: Ceremony
4:30-5:00: Family Portraits 5:15-5:45: Family Portraits
5:00-5:20: Bridal Party Portraits 5:45-6:05: Bridal Party Portraits
5:20-5:50: Couples Portraits 6:05-6:35: Couples Portraits
6:00: Grand Entrance 6:45: Grand Entrance
Late November-February
3:00-3:30: Ceremony
3:30-4:00: Family Portraits
4:00-4:20: Bridal Party Portraits
4:20-4:50: Couples Portraits
5:00: Grand Entrance
(First look done prior to ceremony)
Mid March- Mid October Mid November – Early February
5:30-6:00: Ceremony 3:15-3:45: Ceremony
6:00-6:30: Family Portraits 3:45-4:15: Family Portraits
6:40: Grand Entrance 4:25: Grand Entrance
Full Photography Timeline Example – no first look
12:15-12:45: Detail Picures
12:45-1:15: Getting Ready Pictures
1:15-1:45: Bride Gets Dressed
1:45-2:30: Portraits with Bride and Bridesmaids
2:30-3:15: Portraits with Groom and Groomsmen
3:15-3:30: Reception Decor Pictures
3:30-4:00: Candid of Guests Arriving
4:00-4:30: Wedding Ceremony
4:30-5:00: Family Portraits
5:00-5:20: Bridal Party Portraits
5:20-5:50: Couples Portraits
6:00: Grand Entrance
6:15: Dinner
-Toasts – Specialty Dances
**Sneak out for 15 mins of Golden Hour or Sunset Portraits if a later sunset**