How to Pick your Ceremony Time for Your Savannah, Georgia Wedding

Because your wedding day should flow as beautifully as your love story—and the light in Savannah deserves its own spotlight.

Planning your dream wedding in Savannah, GA? With its moss-draped oaks lined streets and historic squares, golden light, and charming venues, this historic city sets the perfect stage for your “I do.” But one thing couples often overlook is choosing the perfect ceremony time. It’s not just about when to walk down the aisle—it’s about creating a day that flows effortlessly, photographs beautifully, and feels entirely you.

Here’s how to pick your ceremony time with confidence (and a little help from a local expert who knows Savannah weddings inside and out):

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1. Start with the Savannah Sunset

If you’re planning a wedding in Savannah, golden hour is your best friend. Whether you’re exchanging vows in Forsyth Park, at the Mackey House, or along one of the waterfront venues such as the Thompson hotel or JW Marriott Plant Riverside, timing your ceremony with the natural light is key.

In order to get a more accurate time for sunset, try using a sunset calculator for your wedding date and work backward.
Ideal Window: Have your ceremony end about 30–45 minutes before sunset = dreamy golden-hour photos.

Example:

• April wedding? Sunset is around 7:50 PM → ceremony at 6:30 PM.
• November wedding? Sunset is closer to 5:30 PM → ceremony at 4:00 PM.

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2. Consider the Savannah Season & Climate

Savannah summers are hot and humid, temperatures are usually in the high 80s’ – mid 90s’—afternoon ceremonies can be intense. Fall and spring? Perfect weather, however you need to lookout for the spring showers and possible flash flooding at times. Winter? Shorter days and earlier sunsets.

Planner Tip: For outdoor weddings, avoid midday heat and aim for late afternoon or early evening ceremonies. Your guests (and your glam team!) will thank you.

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3. Map Out the Flow of Your Wedding Day

Your ceremony time sets the tone for everything else—getting ready, portraits, cocktail hour, reception. In Savannah, where charming backdrops are everywhere, you’ll want time to take it all in.

Ask Yourself:

• First look or traditional aisle reveal?
• Travel time between hotel, venue, or photo spots?
• Length of your ceremony (15, 30, or 45 minutes)?
• How important is natural light during your vows?

Pro-Tip: If you’re getting married in one of Savannah’s historic homes, such as the Harper Fowlkes House or the historic Scarborough gardens at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, plan extra time for portraits—these spots are worth it.

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4. Coordinate with Your Savannah Venue & Vendors

Venues in Savannah have specific rules on event timing, noise ordinances, and setup windows—especially in residential areas or the historic district (downtown Savannah).

Make sure to:

• Confirm venue rental hours
• Coordinate with your photographer for lighting goals
• Check with your officiant for availability

Pro Insight: As your wedding planner, I build your entire timeline around your ceremony to make sure everything flows smoothly—from your champagne toast to your sparkler exit on cobblestone streets.

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5. Guest Comfort Still Counts (Just Not More Than Your Vision)

Savannah’s charm also means potential heat, high humidity, high pollen count (in the spring) and spotted showers of rain. Consider shaded seating, fans which doubles as a program, or a later ceremony if you’re planning outdoors especially if you have guests that will be affected by those elements.

Quick Tip: Put “ceremony begins at” and “please arrive by” on your invites. This keeps things running smoothly without unnecessary delays.

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Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Day That Flows Effortlessly

Your ceremony time is more than a number on a schedule—it’s the anchor for an intentional, joyful wedding day. With expert planning, thoughtful timing, and a deep knowledge of Savannah’s seasons, I’ll help you choose a time that fits your vision and elevates your entire experience.