The Perfect Wedding Timeline

Planning the perfect wedding timeline can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be, especially when your celebration takes place inside one of Southern Indiana’s most breathtaking historic landmarks: The Parthenon in New Albany. With its Greek Revival architecture, domed ceilings, and timeless elegance, The Parthenon offers the ideal setting for couples who want their wedding day to flow seamlessly from first look to last dance.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, here’s how to build the perfect wedding day timeline tailored specifically for this one-of-a-kind venue.

Why the Venue Matters

Built in 1837, The Parthenon’s rich history and architectural beauty set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. The limestone columns, dramatic dome, and elegant interiors lend themselves to stunning photo opportunities and effortless transitions between ceremony and reception.

One of the biggest advantages of this venue is that you never have to step outside once you’re here, which means you can relax, rain or shine. Couples often choose to hold the ceremony in The Vault, followed by cocktail hour right where the aisles stood, keeping guests comfortable and the flow of the evening beautifully simple. Later, the celebration moves upstairs to Orion Hall, a striking ballroom with a skylight that opens to the night sky — the perfect place to dance under the stars.

By planning your day around The Parthenon’s layout and ambiance, you can create a wedding timeline that feels natural, stress-free, and perfectly paced - just as your day should be.

The Perfect Wedding Timeline

11:00 AM – Setup & Getting Ready

The day begins with setup and getting ready happening at the same time. Your vendors, family, or friends can start transforming The Vault for the ceremony and Orion Hall for the reception while you and your wedding party begin getting ready.

If you’ve added our on-staff coordination service, our experienced team can work directly with your vendors or family members to bring your dream space to life, managing setup, décor placement, and timing so you can relax and enjoy the morning.

Brides and bridesmaids often get ready in The Library or Lyra Lounge, where soft light and elegant décor make for perfect pre-ceremony photos. Groomsmen and family members typically use The Banker’s Study on the lower level, a private and relaxed space ideal for preparations, portraits, and a toast before the ceremony.

1:00 PM – Final Touches & Photos

Hair and makeup are finished, details are captured, and the photographer begins portraits throughout the venue. Take advantage of the architectural features, from the limestone columns to the chandelier glow of The Vault, for timeless shots.

3:00 PM – First Look & Couple Portraits

A first look allows you to enjoy a private moment before the ceremony and gives you time for portraits without feeling rushed later. The Library or one of the quiet corners of The Vault offers a beautiful, intimate backdrop.

4:30 PM – Guests Arrive & Guest Book

Doors open and guests begin to arrive. This is the perfect time to display your guest book and any personal touches, such as a welcome sign, seating chart, or memory table. Background music adds a warm, inviting energy as everyone settles in.

5:00 PM – Ceremony

Keep your ceremony around 30 minutes for an elegant yet effortless pace. The Vault’s crystal chandeliers and spacious layout create a romantic, refined setting that feels both grand and personal.

5:30 PM – Family Photos by the Columns & Cocktail Hour

After the ceremony, gather your family for portraits outside by the Parthenon’s limestone columns, one of the most iconic and timeless photo backdrops in New Albany. Meanwhile, guests remain inside The Vault for cocktail hour, enjoying light bites, music, and mingling beneath the chandeliers.

5:50 PM – Reception Kickoff in Orion Hall

Guests move upstairs to Orion Hall, where the evening truly begins. With its moody atmosphere and skylight above, Orion Hall sets the tone for an unforgettable dinner and celebration. Begin the night with your first dance and a welcome toast before dinner service.

6:10 PM – Dinner & Toasts

A plated or buffet dinner works beautifully here. Follow with toasts as guests finish their meal, a great time for candid photos, laughter, and stories that make the evening personal and memorable.

7:00 PM – Cake Cutting & Dancing

Open the dance floor with a fun transition like cake cutting or bouquet toss. The skylight above adds a soft glow that makes dancing beneath the night sky feel magical and modern all at once.

8:30 PM – A Final Snack for a Full Day of CelebrationAfter hours of celebrating, a light snack or dessert bar keeps guests fueled for one last round of dancing and laughter, the perfect way to end the evening on a sweet (or savory) note.

10:00 PM – Grand Exit with BubblesClose out the evening with a bubble exit under The Parthenon’s glowing façade. The shimmer of bubbles against the night sky makes for the perfect, timeless photo finish — a joyful farewell to an unforgettable day.

Tips for Crafting The Perfect Wedding Timeline

• Plan around the light. Golden hour portraits outside with the limestone columns are breathtaking.

• Add buffer time. Build in 15- to 20-minute cushions for transitions.

• Coordinate vendors early. Share your timeline with everyone to ensure a seamless flow.

• Rely on your team. Our on-staff coordinators can help manage every detail — so you can simply enjoy your day.

• Enjoy the moment. With a solid timeline in place, you can focus on what matters most — celebrating your love story.

Make History at The Parthenon

Your wedding day should be timeless — not rushed. By following the perfect wedding timeline designed around The Parthenon’s elegant flow and historic architecture, you’ll create a day that feels effortless, personal, and full of joy.

Ready to plan your celebration at The Parthenon in New Albany, Indiana? Book a tour, explore available dates, or learn more at newalbanyparthenon.com