Choosing the Right Time of Day for Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

There’s something magical about an outdoor wedding — the light, the scenery, the open air. But one of the most important (and often overlooked!) decisions couples make is what time of day to say “I do.”

The right ceremony time can completely transform the look and feel of your wedding — from the photos to guest comfort and even the flow of your day. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the perfect time for your outdoor ceremony.

☀️ Golden Hour Magic

If stunning photos are high on your priority list, plan your ceremony 1–2 hours before sunset. This is when the sun is softer, golden, and incredibly flattering.

Your photographer will love this lighting — it creates warm, dreamy tones and avoids the harsh shadows of midday. At The Andrews Farm, we often recommend starting ceremonies about 90 minutes before sunset so portraits, cocktail hour, and dinner all flow seamlessly into the evening glow.

🌤️ Midday Ceremonies: Bright but Bold

If you’re going for a midday ceremony, be prepared for brighter light and warmer temperatures — especially during spring and summer months.

Midday ceremonies can work beautifully when you incorporate shaded areas, parasols, or tents for your guests. Just be sure to check the forecast and provide comfort items like fans, water stations, or even a short ceremony length to keep everyone feeling great.

🌸 Morning Ceremonies: Fresh & Romantic

Morning weddings have their own charm — soft light, cooler temperatures, and a peaceful atmosphere. They’re ideal for couples who love a brunch reception or want a relaxed, garden-party vibe.

At The Andrews Farm, morning ceremonies highlight the natural beauty of our grounds, especially when the light catches the dew on the grass or the soft blush tones of early flowers.

🌙 Evening Ceremonies: A Touch of Drama

For a moodier, candlelit celebration, consider a later ceremony that flows right into twilight. String lights, lanterns, and uplighting can create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Keep in mind that once the sun sets, lighting becomes key — so plan with your photographer and venue team to ensure your ceremony space is well-lit for both ambiance and photos.

💡 Venue Tip: Ask for a Light & Timing Walkthrough

Every venue has its own light patterns — where the sun hits, where shadows fall, and how the landscape changes throughout the day. We always recommend scheduling a walkthrough around your ideal ceremony time so you can see exactly what the light will look like.

At The Andrews Farm, our team is happy to help couples find the perfect ceremony start time to make the most of the light, comfort, and flow of the day.

💍 Final Thoughts

Choosing the right time for your outdoor ceremony isn’t just about the schedule — it’s about creating a moment that feels right. The right lighting, temperature, and rhythm of the day all come together to make your wedding day unforgettable.

✨ Planning your outdoor ceremony? Visit [Link] to learn more about hosting your event with us — where every detail is designed to shine beautifully, no matter the time of day.