Ceremony start time- what would you do?

Chris&Ang

I am getting married outside of my reception location. I was able to choose the start time- I originally planned the ceremony to start at 3 (the ceremony should only be10-15 minutes) so I figured the cocktail hour would start at 3:30... but now that it's getting closer, I think 4:00 may be better... (so the cocktail hour would start about 4:30/5)... I keep going back and forth about it- but I need to make up my mind because we are having the invitations done next week! What would you do?

danieliza1127

How late does your reception go?

We had a 6pm ceremony at our reception venue outside, 6:30-7:30 cocktail hour inside, and then 7:30-midnight reception in the main ballroom.

shauni27

i say 4.  we are doing ours outdoors at 4:30-5, cocktail hour from 5-6, reception from 6-11.

deb84

I also vote for 4pm.

lacrymosa8

Keep lighting in mind as your photographer will appreciate more lighting for higher resolution photos. The later in the day the quicker you loose light.

ms_teach

We're doing a 4:30 wedding, cocktail hour outside right after, and then going inside for dinner.  The goal is to finish dinner in time for sunset pictures.

angiem33

What time of year is your wedding?  Keeping in mind photos you may want - I wanted sunset pictures on the beach, the timing required a 2pm ceremony.  Any time between 3 - 4 is probably fine.

jessle830

If it's a summer wedding I agree with 4pm.  We're doing an outdoor 4pm ceremony, outdoor reception with cocktails at 4:15 and dinner for 5/5:30.

mdg327

i think that 4 o'clock sounds better