Montana Wedding Timeline Tips
So, you’ve decided to get married in Montana! Whether it’s a destination wedding or a local celebration, your guests will surely love the chance to visit this stunning state. From the rugged mountains to Flathead Lake, Montana offers a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.
Before you can relax and enjoy your wedding day, though, you’ll need to plan it—and that’s where we come in! As a Montana wedding venue, we’ve seen countless timelines and wedding day schedules. We’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and most importantly, how to make sure your day is exactly what you’ve dreamed of. While every couple is different, here are our best Montana wedding timeline tips to help guide you through the planning process, especially for those tying the knot in the Flathead Valley, Kalispell, Whitefish, Flathead Lake, or near Glacier National Park.
Universal Wedding Timeline Truths
Before we dive into the tips, here are a few universal truths about wedding timelines:
Most Weddings Run Late: It’s okay! Guests generally enjoy the opportunity to mingle, and the party can’t get started without the couple. With so many moving parts, things often run behind schedule, and that's perfectly normal.
It’s Easy to Forget Something: Nearly half of all weddings forget a key moment—whether it’s the first dance, cake cutting, or bouquet toss. Don’t stress! A wedding is a success as long as you're married at the end of the day!
Your Timeline Only Works if Everyone Knows It: A wedding timeline helps coordinate your vendors, family, and friends. The key is making sure everyone is on the same page, so they can keep the day running smoothly—and help you stay on track! I love writing the basics of your timeline on our whiteboard in the Mansion kitchen so everyone has a reference.
Without further ado, here are my top Montana Wedding Timeline Tips
Distribute your Wedding Timeline!
Make sure you have at least two versions of your timeline:
Guest Version (Public): This version should be shared with your guests. Include it in wedding programs, on your website, or posted at your reception. Your officiant should also go over the timeline during the ceremony.
Wedding Party/Family Version (Insider): This detailed version is for your wedding party and family members. Text it to them the day before (during your rehearsal dinner) and provide printed copies. Don’t forget to send the timeline to your vendors as well—they’ll appreciate it!
2. Consult with Your Photographer
Most photographers have a preferred order for wedding photos, especially for family portraits. While you may want to adjust things to fit your style, we recommend sticking to their order for family shots. Photographers typically follow a mental checklist: couple with bride’s family, couple with bride’s parents, etc. Trusting their expertise ensures you get all the photos you want.
3. Book a Separate Day for Bridal Portraits
If you're getting married in Montana, you’ll want epic photos in front of the stunning mountains and landscapes, especially near Glacier National Park. Many couples end up compromising on this dream because they also want time for photos with family and friends. The solution? Book a separate day with your photographer for bridal portraits. Spend the whole day exploring Montana’s natural beauty and capturing your dream shots—no time pressure!
4. Plan for Weather (Especially in Montana!)
Montana’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to have backup plans for rain, snow, or even smoke from nearby wildfires. Go through your timeline and discuss alternative plans with your venue and vendors. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony on Flathead Lake or a rustic wedding in Kalispell, having a contingency plan will ensure you’re prepared no matter what nature throws your way.
5. Plan a Wedding Weekend (Not Just a Day)
Make the most of your Montana wedding by planning activities around the big day. Consider hosting a welcome dinner, rehearsal dinner, or a post-wedding brunch. These extra events are a great way to spend more time with family and friends who’ve traveled to celebrate with you. A Montana wedding weekend will give your loved ones an unforgettable experience as they explore the natural beauty of the area.
Look at this stunning photo by Ashley Romance of one of our Somers Mansion couples up in Glacier National Park!
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