First of all, “does your wedding venue have your wedding date available?” is something you should keep in mind right now before going any further. Because if not, you’re SOL with all of these other questions, especially if you have a specific venue(s) in mind and can’t compromise that. Likely those are more important than the actual date to you, so just be open minded once you settle on a couple dates to ask the venue about.
Your wedding date can be as big or little of a deal as you want to make it. It’s truly just about how important specific things are to your fiancé and you. That’s why with all clients and in my Ultimate Wedding Planning Binder, I advise people to set their priorities first. That way they can see if florals are more important than the honeymoon (making question #9 crucial) or if you just want all your family to be there (making questions #1, #5 and #7 crucial).
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When you have a few potential dates in mind, or if you just have no clue where to start read through this list:
1. Is it on a day that’s easy for traveling guests? Will the people that need to come to the rehearsal be able to attend the day before? Is it on a holiday weekend making it more expensive, but less likely for people to take off work? You can’t make it easy or cheap for everyone, but definitely consider the most important people and how many days of travel they’ll need to get to your big day.
2. What will the weather be like that time of year? Have you always envisioned a faux fur shawl and snow? Is it in a state like Florida that’s physically unbearable for guests to be outside during the summer? What will make you guys and your guests the most comfortable? Think about your theme, if you have one, and if the weather is conducive to that. Then, think about your venue and what it will look like during that season. Will there be leaves on the trees you love so much now?
Photo by Benjaminrobyn Jespersen.
3. What will the lighting be like that time of year? Longer days or does it get dark fast? Use this link to check the typical times for sunrise and sunset in the US. Think about this in terms of photography, shade and budget. Your photographer might also have a preference on time of day to shoot, so consult them and see if it changes depending on the season.
4. Is it peak wedding season or will it potentially be cheaper to purchase some vendors? According to Brides.com: “In general, wedding season months begin in late spring and continue through early fall and are therefore the most expensive, with weddings peaking in June and September.” Click here to read more.
5. Are there any events, birthdays, etc. with immediate family members or the bridal party that will class with your date? Ask around before you book, especially with you immediate families, MOH and best man. If someone’s sister is getting married the same weekend… even if it’s your best friend in the world, they won’t be able to go. People also may have vacations booked way in advance that would be hard to back out of. You don’t need to go through the entire guest lists, but prioritize and ask a few people.
6. Will you have enough time to plan? There’s no science to this one. It’s really something you should weigh with your schedule and availability. Wedding planning is time consuming- there’s no way around it, unless you hire an expensive wedding planner. It’s really all dependent on the style of wedding you want to have, where it will be held and, again, what’s important to you. Do consider that many vendors are booked 9-14 months in advance, so they might not be able to make it on short notice. My magic number: 10-14 months. This is completely based on my experience (at 11 months) and nothing else, so take it with a grain of salt!
7. Will it be enough notice for your guests to make it? Can people get off work fast enough? Will they already have had off plans? Can they book flights, accommodations, etc.
8. Is there a meaningful date that you’d like to get married on? Whether it’s the date you met or one that is connected to a deceased relative, it’s another way to add a personal touch to a date you’ll be remembering for the rest of your lives.
9. What flowers and food will be in season? If you’re heart is set on peonies or fresh strawberry shortcake, then definitely consider the time of year these things are available. Bridal Guide breaks down flowers in season by month, so check it out here. This site lists food by season by state… genius.
10. Will it be a good time of year for you to go to your honeymoon destination? Are you dreaming of laying by the beach or skiing in the alps? If your heart is set on something seasonal, then you may want to make sure your wedding time coincides with that if you plan to leave after the wedding weekend.
