A good running order is one of those behind-the-scenes documents that makes a huge difference to how your wedding day actually feels. Get it right, and everything flows. Get it wrong, and your guests end up standing around wondering what’s happening next. Here’s how to put one together properly.
Featured image credit: Lisa Chonier
Build in more time than you think you need
Whatever timeframe you have in mind for each part of the day, add a little extra. If you think something will take ten minutes, plan for fifteen or twenty. Things always run slightly behind, and a tight schedule means the first thing to get cut is usually time for the two of you, like couple portraits. A bit of breathing room keeps the whole day feeling relaxed rather than rushed.
Account for the gap between invitation time and start time
Guests rarely arrive exactly on time. Some will turn up early, most will trickle in around the stated time, and a few will arrive just after. Build this into your plan by setting your actual ceremony start time around fifteen minutes after the time on your invitation, and make sure your suppliers know the real timings too.
Think about the gaps, not just the events
A running order isn’t only about what’s happening, it’s about what guests are doing during the bits in between. Look at the time between your ceremony and pre-reception drinks, and between drinks and the meal. If there’s a long gap anywhere, think about how to fill it, whether that’s a seating area, some food, a few games, or simply letting guests know about nearby spots if there’s a particularly long break.
Don’t front-load all the speeches
One of the easiest ways to keep energy up throughout the meal is to space out speeches between courses, rather than getting through them all before anyone has eaten. A short welcome before starters, a round of speeches, then dinner, then the final speeches before cake and dessert keeps things moving and gives guests something to look forward to throughout the meal.
Who needs a copy
Once your running order is finalised, share it with anyone involved in making the day happen. This includes your venue coordinator, photographer, videographer, band or DJ, celebrant, and your MC. Each of them will use it slightly differently, but everyone working from the same document means far fewer surprises and a much smoother day.
Top tip: Keep one printed copy on you or with a trusted member of the wedding party on the day itself, just in case anyone needs to check the time of the next thing.
A clear running order takes a bit of time to put together, but it’s one of the best tools for making sure your wedding day feels calm, organised, and enjoyable for everyone, including you.
