When Should Your Wedding Take Place?

Winter

Pros:

- Holiday décor.  Many venues will already be filled with twinkly lights and greenery, especially if you have a church ceremony.

- Off-season deals. This is the low season for most wedding vendors and they may offer good deals, allowing you to use your budget elsewhere.

Cons:

- Holiday plans. With company parties and visiting family, it’s possible your guests won’t be available.

- Cold weather. Outside of the most temperate climates, the lower temperatures and potential snowstorms can make winter nuptials less desirable. 

Spring

Pros:

- No major holidays. Easter and Passover are usually the only dates to worry about staying away from, allowing it to be easy for guests to attend.

- Flowers in bloom. Spring is full of natural beauty and is especially great for a garden-themed celebration or for brides who are hoping for a fresh-picked aesthetic for their floral arrangements. 

Cons:

- Peak allergy season. All those flowers also bring a lot of pollen, which can be unpleasant for the wedding party and guests alike. 

- Unpredictable weather. It could be the nicest day of the year, or there might be a torrential downpour. Certain parts of the country will even still be experiencing snow!

Summer

Pros:

- Travel is expected. A lot of people take vacations this time of year, so as long as you send save the dates before trips are scheduled, your big day can double as a vacation. Many companies also offer “summer Fridays,” making travel for a wedding weekend easier for many. 

- Flexible timing. The sun sets so late that an alfresco wedding can be later in the day than it might otherwise be, which is perfect for night owls who love a long summer night.

Cons:

- Hot weather. Whether it’s a dry heat or swampy humidity, scorching temperatures can put a damper on your wedding day. 

- Popular wedding season. Summer is often nicknamed “wedding season” which means your guests might already have your weekend booked, or that you’ll be invited to nuptials close to your own. In the future you may also deal with sharing anniversaries. 

Fall

Pros:

- Great weather. Though this is region dependent, autumn typically has the most stable and predictable weather, along with variance within the season. Choose September if you like it warmer or November if you prefer cooler temperatures. 

- Natural foliage. The changing leaves make for beautiful scenery, especially for outdoor celebrations.  

Cons:

- Expected color scheme. That same foliage may leave you feeling trapped in a certain palette of hues.

- Can be tough for guests. After spending money on summer vacations and saving for the holidays, attendees and the bridal party may be tightening their wallets. Those in school may be reluctant to take time off with the start of a new year. 

Once you know your wedding date, find out when to share it. Learn tasks that aren't the responsibility of your planner and how much time to take off during your engagement.