Different Germany elopement timeline examples to inspire your planning
It can sometimes be hard to imagine how long things will realistically take.
For example, many people underestimate how long the getting ready process will take, and forget to factor in driving, parking, walking and eating into the day.
It’s always a good idea to plan timelines conservatively. No one wants to add more rush to an already packed day! So, here are a variety of realistic timelines for eloping in Germany.
Written December 14th, 2023 by Mariah Arianna, copywriter for photographers
4 Germany elopement timeline examples
The below 4 timelines are based around ceremony times at sunrise or sunset, where getting to the location requires a moderate hike. For a number of reasons, sunrise/sunset are ideal for the best photos. Which one is best for you comes down to a couple of factors, and of course the day length. Those details will be covered further down.
This blog was written December, 2023 by Mariah Arianna, copywriter for creatives.
Example sunrise at 6:30am
Example sunset at 8:00pm
5 hour half day:
sunrise ceremony, 1 easy access location
4am – 5:30am: getting up, getting ready, drive to trailhead
COVERAGE STARTS
5:30am – 6:15am: hike to the ceremony spot
6:15am – 7:30am: ceremony and golden hour photos
7:30am – 10:30am: more exploring, a picnic, or coffee or something else fun
5 hour half day: afternoon/evening ceremony, 1 easy access location
COVERAGE STARTS
3:30pm – 5:00pm: getting ready and first look; drive to trailhead
5:00pm – 5:45pm: hike to the ceremony spot
5:45pm – 06:15pm: ceremony and golden hour photos
06:15pm – 07:45pm sunset picnic
07:45pm – 8.30pm: hike back down
12 hour full day,
split coverage:
sunrise ceremony, 2 locations
3 – 5am: Getting up and getting ready, drive to trailhead
COVERAGE STARTS
5:00am – 6.30am: shorter hike to the ceremony spot
6:30am – 8.30am: ceremony and golden hour photos
8:30am – 10:00am: hike back
BREAK
2pm – 5pm: arrive, hike and explore second location
5pm-6pm: sunset picnic and portraits
6pm – 8pm: more exploring, hike back
12 hour full day, continuous coverage: afternoon/evening ceremony, 2 locations
COVERAGE STARTS
10am – 1pm: getting ready, first look, drive to trailhead
1pm – 4pm: longer hike to the ceremony spot, including a picnic
4pm – 4.30pm: ceremony
4.30 – 7:00pm: Hike back and drive to reception location
7:00 – 9:30pm: Meet family or guests for group sunset portraits and reception dinner
Questions to determine the right timeline for you
Do you have guests involved, and how much time do you want to include with them?
There is no right or wrong answer. It’s possible to split the day, or only bring them in for an hour to do portraits. You can have a ceremony with or without them – or both! Some couples choose to have a more “traditional,” officiated ceremony in front of family, then read private vows somewhere else.
Do you want your ceremony at sunrise or in the afternoon/evening?
Advantages of a sunrise ceremony:
Gorgeous light, calm, serene atmosphere, slim to no crowds in popular places. You get the most exciting part over with and can relax the rest of your day.
Disadvantages of a sunrise ceremony:
Well, it’s early. That usually means foregoing professional hair and makeup. It also means starting the day in the dark, and in chillier temps, depending on the season. Any getting ready or first looks will happen more casually on location, after the hike.
Advantages of an afternoon/evening ceremony:
Slower, later, more relaxed start to the day. Much easier if getting ready photos and hair/makeup are important to you. It’s also best for including guests.
Disadvantages of an afternoon/evening ceremony:
Areas will be more crowded, and although sunset light is just as beautiful, you’ll be sharing it with more people than at sunrise.
Are you planning on having your whole day covered or just a half day?
Most people need a full day. Full day coverage includes longer hikes, getting ready photos, first looks etc. If you find you only want coverage of your ceremony and some portraits, a half day might be enough.
What is the amount of hiking you want to do?
There are advantages to hiking more. The longer you’re willing to hike, the fewer people will be around your ceremony location. It’s also a very immersive and relaxed way to experience one area. If you love hiking and “slow” traveling through places, an immersive full day hike is perfect. If you want to include guests, or prefer location hopping, shorter hikes to drive up locations are ideal.
How much drive time is there between locations?
When considering these different Germany elopement timeline examples, don’t forget drive times! Drive times can catch you off guard fast, especially on mountain roads. Don’t forget to plan drive times into your day, and include wiggle room for parking and getting your things together.
Looking for a German speaking, Germany based elopement photographer?
My name is Gina! I’d be pumped to help you choose the best of the above Germany elopement timeline examples for your needs. I am based in and travel all of Germany and Europe for elopements. The next step from here is easy: just reach out!
