When Should We Set The Wedding Date? Save the Date: How to Choose the Ideal Wedding Day. Tips on When to Choose Your Wedding Date. Choosing the Perfect Wedding Date: When Is the Right Time?
Setting your wedding date is one of the most exciting steps in the planning process, but it’s also one that requires careful consideration.
What’s your vibe?
Since we were in the wedding industry for more than a decade, we recommend starting by thinking about what time of year you both love most—whether it’s the blossoming flowers of spring, the warmth of summer, the vibrant colors of fall, or the coziness of winter. Once you’ve narrowed down the season, consider any significant dates that are meaningful to you, like your anniversary or a special family event.
What else is going on?
We’ve also found that considering other long weekends and family members’ birthdays can impact your wedding’s turnout. Check around with your immediate family and circle if they have a vacation planned in the next 8-12 months. Especially if you want these people to attend your wedding.
Timing is everything, so it’s smart to give yourselves at least 12 to 18 months to plan if you want your pick of venues and vendors. This timeline allows you to secure your dream location, send out save-the-dates with plenty of notice, and avoid the stress of last-minute planning. Plus, it gives you time to budget wisely and pay in installments, which is a huge benefit.
Also, for you and your partner, think about any other major expenses coming up for you. Are you buying a house or a car? Is it better to space it out after a big purchase? Do you want to have more time to come up with the funds or budget for the wedding so you won’t lose your savings?
Perhaps a winter wedding can bring you more savings and is a better match to the budget you set. Just like with anything about weddings, there isn’t a hard rule. You ultimately decide what’s best for you and your circumstances.
Is a short engagement better?
If you’re thinking of a shorter engagement, it’s still doable, but be prepared for limited availability and potentially higher costs due to the rush. You can also consider an off-peak wedding date, like a Friday or Sunday, which often comes with discounts and more flexibility. Also, consider other venues like restaurants and golf clubs that can offer more flexibility in terms of bookings.
Remember, setting the date too soon without a clear vision can lead to compromises, like settling for a venue that’s not your first choice or cutting corners on your dream details.
When Should We Set The Wedding Date? You do you.
Taking your time to choose the right date not only sets the tone for your entire wedding but also ensures you enjoy the planning journey. Trust me, giving yourselves that extra cushion of time will make the process smoother, more fun, and much less stressful!
