Planning your wedding day is a blend of excitement and meticulous coordination. Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda Tea House offers a serene and picturesque setting that seamlessly combines natural beauty with modern elegance . Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, crafting a well-structured timeline ensures that every moment is cherished and captured beautifully. This blog will be able to help you better understand how weddings run in a wedding venue / restaurant, and you’ll be able to plan your wedding more efficiently.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Olinda Tea House

9:30AM – 10:30 AM – Bride & Groom Preparation (1–1.5 hours)

Weddings here usually start from 11am and runs for 4-5 hours. You may come earlier upon arrangement to get ready for your big day, as it may be time-consuming for a bride’s makeup to be done. Also a way to begin the day by capturing the groom’s anticipation and camaraderie with his groomsmen. Photograph accessories like cufflinks, boutonnières, and personalized items. Moments of laughter, toasts, and final preparations set a relaxed tone. Capture the bride’s transformation amidst the natural light filtering through the windows of our bridal room. Detail shots of the dress, jewelry, and bouquet, followed by candid moments with bridesmaids, create lasting memories. Note: staff only arrives at 10am, there will be no service until 10am.

Tips:

• Lay out all accessories for detailed shots.
  
• Ensure the suit is pressed and tags are removed.
  
• Consider a heartfelt note or gift exchange with the bride.
  
• Have hair and makeup completed before the photographer’s arrival.
  
• Use elegant hangers for dresses.
  
• Organize all accessories in one place for easy access.
• There will be plenty more time to shoot after ceremony for some outdoor shots.

photographer: Silaschau & Blessedvision & Tree Studio

10:30 – 11:00 AM – Guests Arrival (30 minutes)

Guests will start to arrive gradually. Groom and families should be ready to greet the guests while bride is in preparation. 

Tips:

• Allow time for guests to arrive, some will be late but ceremony starts on time.
• Have your wishing well ready at check-in entrance for guests to give their gift easily.
• Live musical entertainment would be recommended for that romantic vibes. Violinist: Dario
• Groom and families shall greet the guests and constantly communicate with coordinator for a smooth run.

photographer: Tree Studio

11:00 – 12:00PM – Wedding Ceremony & Group Photo Sesh (45–60 minutes)

Exchange vows amidst the tranquil setting of Olinda Tea House’s outdoor spaces. Ceremony usually runs for about 30-40 minutes and post-ceremony is ideal for capturing group shots. Organize family and friends for portraits against the venue’s scenic backdrops. Canapes will be served the moment ceremony ends, enjoy some hot and cold small bites while guests take turns to take pictures with the bride and groom.

Tips:

• Dogs are allowed during your wedding ceremony! Only for outdoor ceremony*
• Allow time for guests to be seated before the ceremony begins.
  
• Coordinate with the officiant for a smooth flow.
  
• Consider flower petals or bubble exit for a whimsical touch.
• Prepare a list of desired groupings in advance.
  
• Assign a coordinator to gather individuals promptly.

photographer: LaterStory & RHfotowedding

12:00PM – 12:30PM Bar Open & Couple Portraits (30 -40 minutes)

While guests return to restaurant for reception and refreshments, take this time for additional portraits in our beautiful garden. Explore different areas of the property to capture diverse settings. You would need to finish the shoot asap before the reception starts, schedule runsheet will be arranged with the coordinator and it will be best to follow accordingly.

Tips:

• Incorporate props or personal items for unique shots.
  
• Shoot with our adorable alpacas for some fun wedding shots.
• Monitor the time to ensure a prompt return for the reception.

photographer: Silaschau & Veriphoto

12:30 – 3:30 PM Reception Begins (3 hours)

Bride and groom to enter restaurant for reception to officially start the party. Celebrate with your guests in the venue’s elegant reception space. Enjoy lunch/dinner, speeches, and dancing as the evening unfolds.

Sample Reception Timeline:

• 12:50 PM: Bridal party entrance and first dance.
  
• 1:00 PM: Cake cutting and wedding toast.
  
• 1:20 PM: Speeches and toasts.
  
• 2:30 PM: Game time for interactions.
• 3:00 PM: Desserts to be served.
• 3:15 PM: Open dance floor.
• 3:30 PM: Bar closed.

Tips:

• Wedding entrance with music or DJ is highly recommended and must be coordinated nicely to bring the hype up.
• Coordinate with the venue for meal timings. Best to have a runsheet.
  
• Plan some games for guest interactions and engage them with joy.

photographer: Tree Studio & RHfotowedding

4:00 PM – Farewell and Wedding Exit (10 minutes)

Time to say goodbye to your guests and end the party. Wedding exit can be done with bubbles (day time) or sparklers (night time) for a fun wedding send off.

Tips:

• Check with the venue for what style of wedding exit you wish to have.
  
• Communicate with the photographer to schedule accordingly.
• Olinda Tea House strictly prohibits confettis and glitters.

photographer: Ethan Gallery

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Planning your special day can feel overwhelming, but with a clear timeline and the right venue, everything can fall beautifully into place. At Olinda Tea House, we’re dedicated to making your wedding experience smooth, memorable, and filled with joy. From serene garden ceremonies to elegant receptions, every detail is designed to reflect your love story. We hope this sample timeline has given you helpful insights into how your wedding day can unfold here in the Yarra Ranges Mount Dandenong. We proudly say we are the best wedding venue in Olinda town!

If you’re ready to start planning or have questions about customising your celebration, our team is here to help. Let’s make your dream wedding a reality, one thoughtful moment at a time. Should you be interested to come in for a venue tour, feel free to reserve a time and our wedding manager will show you around this beautiful venue of ours and answer your questions promptly.

written by: Zoelle Gan