As you plan your wedding, you could end up worrying about how you’ll pull off your event without going broke. It’s vital to remember that the day and time on which you choose to get married affect the pricing and availability of your vendors, the venues from which you can select, the number of guests who can attend, and even the weather. Following some smart practices can help you pick an ideal date that’s also budget-friendly.
Choose a Date During Off-Peak Months
A March 2018 CNBC piece revealed that around 72 percent of nuptials take place between May and October. Predictably, venue and catering costs are usually much higher for weddings held during these times. The Wedding Wire survey cited in the article also disclosed that January, February, and December are the least popular months in which to wed. Most couples avoid tying the knot in March, April, November, and July as well.
As you mull over your date, it’s important to understand that findings like these are based on national averages. If you live or are planning destination nuptials in a region that has ideal weather for most of the year, there may be no off-peak times. For areas like Phoenix or Bakersfield where 90-degree temperatures are common during the spring and summer, wedding season could fall between late autumn and early spring.
Select a Less Popular Day of the Week
You’ll also need to give thought to the day of the week on which you walk down the aisle. Saturday is frequently chosen because it allows most guests to easily travel, find lodging, and take time to wind down before returning to work. The Knot reminds readers that venue and food costs are often higher for Saturday weddings, so you’ll more likely snag your preferred vendors and pay lower rates if you schedule your nuptial celebration on a different day of the week.
Time of Day Is Also Key
Dinner receptions are also typically more expensive, but Bridal Guide explains that a wedding with a daytime afterparty may be kinder on your wallet. Meanwhile, an August 2017 Brides article points out that a reception with a traditional brunch menu can price out less than a multi-course dinner, and the more casual vibe of daytime nuptials could translate to lower costs for your attire, drinks, and décor as well.
A Few Caveats to Consider
Adopting a cost-saving strategy when selecting your date and time can pay off in a less expensive wedding. At the same time, you’ll need to keep some important pointers in mind as you plan:
- Don’t assume that you’ll automatically get cheaper prices because of your event’s date and time. Be sure to ask about off-peak rates.
- With weather challenges such as unexpected snow, thunderstorms, or temperature extremes, you must pick a venue that’s comfortable for your guests. Also, familiarize yourself with policies on weather and other emergency-related cancellations.
- Floral arrangements can cost more during off-peak months, but you can subvert this by picking in-season blooms.
- More guests may decline a non-Saturday or daytime wedding due to work commitments or travel issues.
- Study blackout dates and avoid holidays, festivals, conventions, or significant occasions in your family. The Knot provides a helpful list of religious observances, government holidays, and sporting events in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
Pick Your Date With Care
While many couples opt to say “I do” on Saturdays during peak seasons, you can deviate from these norms and wed in an off-peak month or on a different day of the week. When picking your date, don’t forget to adjust for other costs and factor in necessary contingencies. These tips can aid you selecting a wedding date that results in both lower costs and an enjoyable event.
Add Your Comment