How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Date

You may have always dreamed of a summer wedding where you can host your ceremony outdoors, dine al fresco, and chat under the stars with your guests until the early hours. Or perhaps a winter wedding is more your thing? Crackling open fires, twinkling lights, and cosy interiors. But how do you actually pick the all-important wedding date?

Whether you know what you want or can't decide between a crisp autumn celebration or a fresh spring wedding, let us steer you in a direction that feels right for you. There are a few factors to consider when picking your wedding date (emotional AND logistical!), which we've covered in this blog, so maybe, just maybe, by the end of this read, you'll have a bit of a clearer idea of how to pick your dream wedding date... exciting!

Personal preferences and wedding vision

Seasonal preferences: Consider the time of year and how it aligns with your wedding vision and preferences - think flowers, food and festivities! Each season offers a unique charm and feel that can really enhance your wedding day. Consider carefully which season really resonates with you and your partner, and try to envision this for your wedding day. Also, think about what weather conditions you actually like and are suited to; if you hate being hot and bothered (especially in a suit or corseted dress), definitely avoid peak summer months!

Emotional significance: Consider whether there are any dates that hold special significance for you and your partner, such as the anniversary of your first date or a meaningful milestone in your relationship. Tying the knot on a date that holds sentimental value can add an extra layer of meaning to your wedding day.

Wedding theme and style: If you have a specific theme or vision for your wedding, certain months may align better with that concept. For example, if you're dreaming of a rustic autumn wedding, March, April, and May would be the perfect months to capture the beauty of the colours, foliage, and light that autumn brings. Always consider how your potential chosen date complements your wedding theme and enhances the overall aesthetic of your celebration.

Logistical considerations

Venue and vendor availability: Popular wedding months and dates, such as holiday weekends, tend to get booked up quickly for venues and vendors, so it's essential to check their availability early in the planning process. Consider being flexible with your wedding date or booking well in advance if you want to secure your dream venue and those preferred suppliers. In fact, some venues may offer discounted rates during off-peak months or weekdays, which could also help you save on costs.

You and your partner should also determine how long you would like to be engaged before contemplating potential wedding dates, as the length of your engagement could determine what future dates should be considered.

School and work schedules: Plan your wedding around your school or work schedule, and definitely avoid planning a wedding during a busy or stressful time! It's common sense, but if you have a particularly busy month of every year, avoid that month for your wedding or even the couple of months prior. Trying to juggle a stressful work schedule and planning a wedding doesn't go down well together.

Budget and practicality

Planning a wedding on a budget: As we mentioned earlier, choosing to get married off-season may end up being less expensive, especially if you can avoid a holiday weekend or a Saturday, as those are the most popular days to tie the knot. Therefore, consider the cost of your wedding and how it may impact your date selection. If you're on a tight wedding budget, avoid peak months and certain days of the week. Venues will be able to guide you on these months and popular wedding dates and can often accommodate you during quieter times; more often, they will be more reasonably priced, too!

Outdoor wedding considerations: Research the typical weather in your dream location during different months of the year to ensure the perfect climate for your outdoor celebration. If you're opting for a beach wedding, don't assume the weather will be perfect. Do your research with enough time to book, and plan accordingly ahead of time.

It's always worth having a backup plan if the weather takes a turn for the worse, especially if you're hoping for an outdoor celebration. Weather conditions can massively impact your wedding day, so it's essential to plan accordingly. Your venue's wedding planner will be able to help with outdoor wedding contingency plans; they will have experience with all types of weather, so listen carefully and definitely take their advice!

Finalising your wedding date

Weighing up the pros and cons: Consider the significance of your wedding date, such as the anniversary of your first date or a special date for you both. Think about your style and budget when selecting your wedding date, and make sure everything is aligned. Weigh the pros and cons of different dates to ensure you're making the best decision for your special day, but most importantly, what feels right for you both and gives you enough time to plan your celebration, of course!

Communicating your decision: Involve your most important loved ones in the date selection process. Ask about their availability and preferences to ensure everyone is on the same page and that your nearest and dearest will be able to make it. Stand your ground once you've selected a date, and don't let guilt influence your decision. Communicate your decision clearly and efficiently to ensure a smooth planning process, and then once you've chosen your perfect date and wedding location (the venue doesn't necessarily need to be locked in), you can then send out your save the dates! Finally, you can let the rest of your wedding planning journey commence!