How to Set the Perfect Wedding Date
Choosing your wedding date is often one of the first steps in the planning process, but it’s not always as simple as picking a day you like. The date you select impacts everything from venue availability to guest attendance and even your budget. Here are a few essential tips to help you make the right choice when setting your wedding date.
How Far in Advance Should I Plan?
The timeline for planning a wedding can vary depending on your budget, your guests’ availability, and how well you handle stress. While you might be eager to tie the knot as soon as possible, it’s essential to give yourself enough time to plan so that you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.
There are countless details that go into wedding planning, from finding a venue to booking suppliers and finalising your guest count. Popular venues can book up months, event years, in advance, so it’s a good idea to start your search as early as possible. Make a shortlist of your dream venues and reach out to them to inquire about available dates. From there, you can start to narrow down your options and create a list of potential wedding dates that work for both you and your venue.
We recommend giving yourself at least 12-18 months to plan for a traditional wedding.
What Season is Best for Weddings?
The time of year you choose will not only set the tone for your wedding but can also significantly impact your budget. Spring, summer, and autumn are popular wedding seasons, but they come with higher costs due to higher demand in these months. On the other hand, winter weddings are usually more budget-friendly has they fall in the off-peak season.
While the warmer months might seem like the best option, you also need to consider how the weather could affect your wedding. Peak summer heat can be extremely uncomfortable for you and your guests, especially if you’re planning an outdoor wedding. Make sure to think of their comfort when choosing the date for your wedding.
Whether you’re planning for a warm summer wedding or a cozy winter one, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. Indoor venues or having a marquee on standby can be a lifesaver if the weather doesn’t cooperate on your big day. Always prepare for the unexpected – especially if you live in Melbourne!
Check out our blog post on why you should always have a plan b for outdoor events here.
What Day of the Week is Best for Weddings?
The day of the week you choose for your wedding can have a big impact on the overall atmosphere and your guests’ experience. While weekday or Sunday weddings are often more affordable, if you want your wedding to be a big party, they may not be the best choice. Guests who have work or other commitments the next day might leave early or limit their enjoyment to avoid being too tired. On the other hand, Saturday weddings are usually the most convenient for guests and they’re much more likely to stay all night and have a good time. Saturday weddings do have the downfall of being more expensive due to the higher demand.
Another option you might consider is having your wedding on a public holiday weekend. Your guests will likely have the following day off, allowing you to get the best of both worlds – a Sunday wedding at a more affordable price, but without the worry of your guests leaving early.
How to Pick the Perfect Date
When it comes to selecting the actual date, there’s a few additional factors to consider beyond just the season or the day of the week.
- Avoid clashing with other major events: Make sure your wedding date doesn’t overlap with another friend or family member’s big event. While a wedding would usually take precedence over most gatherings, it might be hard for your guests to choose between your wedding and a milestone birthday of one of their close friends.
- Consider local events or holidays: Check your calendar for major public holidays, festivals, or charity events. These can impact parking and accommodation availability. Also try to avoid clashing with sporting events such as the grand final or major horse races as this may affect attendance.
- Think about personal significance: Are there any dates that hold sentimental value to you? Such as an anniversary or even just a lucky date? If there’s a date that holds significance to the both of you, this could be the perfect wedding date!
Final Step: Lock It In!
Once you’ve picked the perfect date, don’t waste any time in locking it in. Secure your venue, book your vendors, and send out your save the dates as soon as possible. This ensures that your guests mark their calendars early and don’t plan other events on the same day.
Choosing the perfect date may take time, but with the right planning and consideration, you’re sure to find a date that suits your budget, guest list, and personal preferences. Want Feel Good Events to help you with your wedding planning and decorating? Get in touch with our expert event planners to get started!
