Groom and groomsmen arrive: An hour and a half before the ceremony.
Bride and bridesmaids arrive: An hour* before the ceremony. "We want to make sure you are hidden before your guests arrive, so they don't get an early peek at your gown!" said wedding planner Erin McLean of Erin McLean Events.
*If the bride won't be taking photos at the church prior to the ceremony, then she can arrive moments before walking down the aisle and wait in the limo until it's time.
Ideal ceremony length: 30 minutes. "It's enough time to have meaningful readings and music to make your ceremony unique and memorable," said McLean.
Receiving line: For a ceremony with 100 guests or less, this will take 12-15 minutes. With 150 guests, allow 20 minutes. If you're expecting more than 150 guests, consider skipping the receiving line and visiting guests at their tables during dinner instead.
Maximum gap between ceremony and reception: One hour. "Any more than that, and I'd recommend suggesting places for your guests to visit between the ceremony and cocktail hour," said McLean.