The Pros and Cons of Having a New Year's Eve Wedding

Things to keep in mind if you plan to wed on this holiday.

Consider the following pros and cons to decide if you should host your wedding on the last day of the year.

black-and-white-photo-of-bride-and-groom-in-new-years-eve-hat-and-tiara-wedding-kiss-confetti
Photo: Genevieve Nisly Photography

What better way to ring in the new year than with wedding bells? If you’re planning on hosting your wedding some time during the holiday season, you might have considered saying "I do" on New Year’s Eve – once you no longer need to wrap presents and prepare for guests at home. Some couples incorporate the festive night into their soirée with hats, noisemakers, confetti, a countdown, and even a ball or balloon drop.

As fun as a New Year’s Eve wedding can be, there are some benefits and drawbacks that come with it. Consider the following pros and cons to decide if you should host your wedding on the last day of the year.

New Year's Eve wedding party favors on sequin table

Photo by Studio EMP

Pros

It’ll be twice the party. You and your attendees will have not one but two reasons to dance and celebrate all night. There will also be two reasons to make a toast and pop Champagne bottles! This is an ideal wedding date for couples who want to be extra festive.

You’ll spend the holiday with everyone. Whether you’re sharing your first dance with your sweetheart or singing "Auld Lang Syne," all your friends and loved ones will be there to share these precious moments.

Easy décor decisions. If you have your wedding on New Year’s Eve, a glittery color palette is the natural choice. It’s a great excuse for glam brides to incorporate as much bling into the event design as possible. Favors and props for photo booths are also simple ways to embrace the holiday.

Cons

Guests might not come. A great number of people travel for the holidays and stay out of town until the new year arrives, so they might miss your special day. Some of your loved ones might also already have plans for New Year’s Eve or may just want to stay in to avoid traveling.

The event will have to end late. A New Year’s Eve wedding may not be the best choice if you want to host a daytime wedding or do not want to party past midnight. Consider how early or late you want your ceremony and/or reception to begin and end.

Some venues close before midnight. Part of this night is saying “Happy New Year!” when the clock strikes midnight, but some venues may close early or may not be willing to extend their hours for your occasion. Keep this in mind and be sure to ask before finalizing your decision.

For more advice, find out if it's okay to have a holiday wedding, learn how to include festive details in your winter nuptials, and discover the etiquette rules of hosting a Christmas celebration. Click here to see hundreds of real weddings to inspire your own event! 

Wedding news