Create the Perfect Indian Wedding Day Timeline

Indian weddings are vibrant, multi-day celebrations filled with rituals and joy. Managing everything can be tricky, but a well-planned timeline ensures everything flows seamlessly. At D'N'A Majestic Frames, we understand the importance of capturing every beautiful ritual, from the bride’s Mehndi to the emotional Bidaai. Follow this guide to craft the perfect schedule for your big day.

WEDDING PLANNINGESSENTIAL TIPS FOR WEDDINGWEDDING PLANNING TIPSPRE-WEDDING PREPARATIONSCEREMONY RITUALSPOST-CEREMONY MOMENTSGOLDEN HOUR PHOTOS

DNA Majestic Frames

10/23/20242 min read

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The Muhurat Ceremony Sets the Foundation

The wedding timeline revolves around the muhurat (auspicious time), typically provided by your family priest or astrologer. Once the muhurat is set, you can work backward to align the other events of the day. Indian ceremonies, such as the pheras, may take between 1-2 hours.

Morning Rituals and Getting Ready: 5-6 Hours Before the Ceremony

Indian brides and grooms often spend hours getting ready. To avoid stress, start early!

  • Bridal Makeup & Hair: 2-3 hours

  • Groom’s Preparation: 1 hour

  • Mehndi and Jewelry Shots: 60 minutes

Tip from D'N'A Majestic Frames: Capture candid moments with your family and close friends during this time. These memories add emotional depth to your wedding album.

Baraat: 1 Hour Before the Ceremony

The Baraat procession (groom’s arrival) is a grand, fun-filled moment. Allocate 30-45 minutes to ensure there’s enough time for dancing, drumming, and photography.

Our photographers at D'N'A Majestic Frames love capturing these high-energy moments, from the groom atop his horse to guests cheering in joy.

Pheras and Vows: 1-2 Hours

The wedding ceremony begins with rituals like Ganesh Puja, followed by the saat pheras (seven vows) around the sacred fire.

  • Entry of the Bride (Kanya Aagaman): 10-15 minutes

  • Pheras: 60-90 minutes

  • Sindoor & Mangalsutra Ritual: 10-15 minutes

Pro Tip: Ensure there’s enough time for emotional moments like the exchange of garlands (Jaimala), which we capture in its full glory.

Post-Ceremony Photos and Reception Entry: 1 Hour

Once the pheras are completed, take family and couple portraits while the guests enjoy the pre-reception snacks.

  • Family Photos: 20 minutes

  • Couple’s Portraits: 30 minutes

  • Reception Entry: 10 minutes

Dinner, Dance, and Performances: 2-3 Hours

Indian receptions are lively events filled with dances, emotional speeches, and delicious food. Coordinate with your choreographers and caterers to ensure smooth transitions.

  • First Dance / Couple Performance: 10-15 minutes

  • Sangeet Performances (Friends & Family): 30-45 minutes

  • Dinner: 60-90 minutes

At D'N'A Majestic Frames, our dance choreographers create vibrational dance moves and we capture everything, from laughter-filled speeches to spontaneous dance moves on the floor.

Bidaai: The Emotional Farewell

The Bidaai (bride’s farewell) is a heart-touching ritual and the final part of the wedding day. Allocate 10-15 minutes for this, as emotions often run high.

Tip: Plan the Bidaai close to midnight to align with tradition while ensuring guests have ample time to enjoy the reception.

Golden Hour Photos

If your wedding day coincides with sunset, sneak away for 15-20 minutes with your photographer to capture stunning golden hour portraits. These photos become some of the most cherished moments.

Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Indian Wedding Day

  • Share the timeline with your key vendors—the photographer, caterers, and choreographers—so everyone is aligned.

  • Plan buffer times between rituals to account for unexpected delays. Indian weddings are joyous yet spontaneous!

  • Travel time: If your wedding involves multiple venues, factor in commute time between events.

With a thoughtfully planned timeline, your Indian wedding will unfold beautifully, leaving you free to enjoy every moment with your loved ones. Let D'N'A Majestic Frames be part of your big day, ensuring every ritual, smile, and dance is perfectly captured. Contact us today to make your dream wedding unforgettable!