Family formals are one of the most important parts of the wedding day—and also the most chaotic if there isn’t a plan. Without one? We’re hunting down second cousins in cocktail hour and asking someone’s uncle if they’re sure they’re not in this one.
That’s why I always recommend creating a clear, streamlined list of groupings ahead of time. Not only does it ensure no one gets forgotten, but it also keeps things moving efficiently so you can get back to enjoying the day—with a cocktail in hand.
Below, I’ll walk you through how to create a great shot list, share a sample version you can use or tweak, and drop some pro tips I use at every wedding to keep this part of the day running smoothly.
My Top Family Formal Tips
Put the big groups first. That way, folks can head to cocktail hour once they’re done.
Cap it around 15–20 combinations. That’s the sweet spot for meaningful coverage without cutting into the rest of the day.
Assign a “family wrangler.” Choose someone who knows your families and can help gather people quickly.
Ask your officiant to help. A quick announcement right before the kiss or at the start of the ceremony works wonders. Example:
“After the ceremony, immediate family please meet the photographer near the [venue landmark] in 10 minutes for group photos.”
Keep your list flexible. Life happens. We’ll make it work, but having a baseline keeps us grounded.
Sample Family Shot List
(Downloadable Version Below)
This order is designed to minimize back-and-forth and reduce waiting time. Start big and gradually narrow down.
- Couple with chosen family, godparents, or honourary family, friends (Optional)
- All extended family from both sides with the couple (All grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, parents, siblings, etc.)
- Extended family – Partner A’s side with the couple
- Extended family – Partner B’s side with the couple
- Couple with Partner A’s immediate family (Parents, siblings + partners, grandparents)
- Couple with Partner B’s immediate family
- Partner A with their siblings (plus their partners or kids, if relevant)
- Partner B with their siblings
- Couple with siblings from both sides
- Couple with all parents and grandparents
- All grandparents with the couple
- Partner A’s grandparents with the couple
- Partner B’s grandparents with the couple
- Couple with both sets of parents
- Partner A’s parents with the couple
- Partner A with their parents
- Partner A with each parent individually
- Partner B’s parents with the couple
- Partner B with their parents
- Partner B with each parent individually
Why a Shot List Matters
It saves time. The more organized this is, the faster we can move through each combination—without unnecessary back-and-forth or guesswork. That means you’re off to party (or grab a drink and breathe) that much sooner.
It prevents missed photos. No one wants to realize after the wedding that they forgot to get a photo with Grandma or a favourite uncle. A solid list ensures the people who matter most are captured—without relying on memory in the moment.
It keeps things stress-free. You don’t need to direct anyone or worry about what’s next. I’ll have the list, the flow, and the timing under control—your only job is to relax and smile.
You don’t need to memorize this, direct people, or stress. That’s my job. All I need is a wedding family shot list that reflects your people and your priorities—and a wrangler who knows the names and faces.
Want to make it even easier?
It’s fully customizable, check-off-able, and easy to hand off to a friend or planner. You focus on being present—I’ll make sure no one important gets missed.
