Who decides when a wedding starts

We had a discussion with our photographers and they helped us figure out a good start time. They kind of worked backwards with us, so that we would have enough time between the ceremony and reception to fit all of our photos in.

For mine, we said 3pm because that was the plan and the start time is more for the guests to make sure they are there on time. I believe in the end the ceremony started about 3:15pm. You are the bride, the ceremony starts when you want it too. Of course, unless the venue only allows a certain time period.

The venue will generally suggest a start time (and an overall timeline for the day in general) based on what they have seen work for them (ex. we got married at a winery that stayed open their normal hours, so a later afternoon/evening wedding when the retail shop was closed was a better fit for them). But you're the one calling the shots! Pick what works for you!

As long as the venue is booked for that time, then go for it! Then make sure all vendors/officiant/etc. know the time and voila!

You get to call the shots on this for sure!