If you’re used to attending weddings in Canada, you might expect a full-day event with carefully choreographed timing. But destination weddings — especially those hosted at all-inclusive resorts — tend to run differently.
Here’s what couples need to know about how destination timelines work, and how to plan a smoother, more photo-friendly schedule from abroad.
How Destination Timelines Are Structured (vs. Local Canadian Weddings)
| Event | Local Wedding | Resort Wedding |
|---|---|---|
| Ceremony | ~3:30–4:30 PM | Often scheduled between 11 AM–3 PM |
| Portraits | Multiple sessions | One quick post-ceremony shoot |
| Reception | 6–11 PM | Dinner usually ends by 9 PM |
| Photo Coverage | 8–10 hours standard | Often limited to 1–3 hours unless upgraded |
| Flexibility | Full control | Strict resort-run timelines |
Photographer Insight:
“At many resorts, your ceremony slot is assigned based on availability — not light. Golden hour portraits? Forget it — unless you build them in separately.”
Top Timeline Mistakes Couples Make
1. Assuming You’ll Have Full-Day Coverage
Most resort packages include just 1–2 hours of photography.
Read: Should I Hire the Resort Photographer?
2. Not Building in Time for Candids
Tight timelines leave no room for unscripted moments unless you carve them out intentionally.
3. Missing Golden Hour
Midday light means harsh shadows and squinting.
Read: Why You Should Do a Day-After Session
4. Relying on the Resort Coordinator to Build the Timeline
Their goal is efficiency — not emotion, golden light, or storytelling.
Ideal Destination Wedding Timeline (With a Canadian Photographer)
Here’s a photo-first timeline that balances experience with beautiful imagery:
- 10:00 AM – Getting ready coverage begins (earlier in hot climates)
- 12:30 PM – Ceremony
- 1:00 PM – Champagne, hugs, group photos
- 1:30 PM – Couple & wedding party portraits (short session)
- 3:00 PM – Break for guests / freshen up / lunch
- 5:00 PM – Golden hour portraits (beach or off-site)
- 6:30 PM – Reception dinner begins
- 8:00 PM – Speeches, dancing, and final photo coverage
Tip: Add a Day-After Session for even more flexibility and creativity.
Pro Tips for Better Timing
- Ask your photographer for light-specific advice
- Consider a first look if your ceremony is later in the day
- Schedule a separate golden hour session if your package allows
- Advocate for your timeline — the resort works for you, not the other way around
How to Communicate the Timeline to Guests
- Share the full day’s schedule on your wedding website or in travel docs
- Let guests know what’s optional vs. mandatory
- Print a simple itinerary card for welcome bags or room drop-offs
Want help designing a timeline that works with the light, not against it?
Browse our list of Canadian wedding photographers who specialize in destination weddings and can help you plan every frame of your story.