Planning Your Ceremony Time For A Los Angeles Wedding

Planning a fall or winter wedding in Los Angeles can be a dream come true, with its stunning backdrops and pleasant weather. However, choosing the right ceremony time can be a bit tricky due to the city’s unique seasonal characteristics. To ensure your special day goes off without a hitch, it’s essential to consider factors like daylight hours, temperature, and your guests’ comfort. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of determining the ideal ceremony time for your fall or winter wedding in Los Angeles.

Things to consider when determining your Los Angeles ceremony time:

• Sunset time
• Position of the sun during ceremony time
• Ceremony direction

Sunset Time

One of the most crucial factors when setting your invitation and ceremony times is the amount of daylight available. This is especially important for fall and winter weddings in Los Angeles when the sun sets earlier. Without a Los Angeles wedding planner’s guidance, couples often prioritize a late end time and overlook the need for an earlier ceremony. This can lead to rushed ceremonies or a lack of natural light for photos.

For example: Sunset time in Los Angeles in November is before 5pm. Let’s look at a timeline for a 6 hour event that is starting too late leaving your guests in the dark.

Here’s how I would build a timeline for an outdoor Los Angeles wedding ceremony in November.

Sun Position

With your sunset time and base timeline in place, consider the unique characteristics of your ceremony space. Some venues, like those with tall hedges or dense tree canopies, may cast shadows or limit natural light. While this can add a touch of ambiance, it’s important to factor it into your lighting plan, especially for post-ceremony photos.

Ask your venue representative about ideal ceremony timing for the specific ceremony area. They will know best when the sun typically starts to go behind any trees and when the area starts to get dark. 15 minutes can make a big difference in capturing that beautiful natural light on your wedding day.

Ceremony Direction

Beyond the sun’s position, consider the orientation of your ceremony space. While it might be tempting to face the ceremony toward the sun, this can be uncomfortable for your guests. Imagine squinting into the bright light while trying to witness your vows. Instead, opt for a location or setup that allows guests to comfortably see and experience the ceremony without feeling blinded.

Ideally, you want your guests to be in the shade and out of the suns direct light.

By carefully considering your ceremony time, you can create a magical and memorable experience for yourself and your guests. Remember to factor in the unique characteristics of your venue, the time of year, and your personal preferences. With a little planning, you’ll be well on your way to a perfect fall or winter wedding in Los Angeles. Working with a skilled Los Angeles wedding planner can streamline the process and ensure that all these details are seamlessly covered, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day. Reach out to us to learn more!