Getting engaged is exciting and magical, but then you have to answer a few big questions. Particularly, when is the wedding date? With thorough planning and some helpful tips, you can enjoy the perfect wedding and start married life on the right foot.
Many engaged couples struggle to pick the perfect day for their nuptials. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of best practices for how to pick a wedding date.
1. Think of Dates That May Be Symbolic
First off, think about wedding dates that may have a special meaning to you and your significant other. It could be the anniversary of the day you first met, a day you feel strongly about (such as World Peace Day), or the same day your great-grandparents tied the knot. Some couples even refer to the astrological calendar to see which wedding date would be ideal.
Chances are, you don’t have too many symbolic wedding dates. So, it could save you a lot of time and headaches to pinpoint one and roll with it. Just remember symbolic dates don’t always work well in terms of budget, venue availability, attendance, etc.
2. Choose Your Favorite Season
If you struggle with knowing how to pick a wedding date, maybe start by choosing your and your partner’s favorite wedding season. Spring weddings are usually the go-to choice. However, there are plenty of other great options:
- Summer weddings can be especially fun if you’re planning an outdoor event or hoping to invite guests from out of town.
- Fall weddings typically cost less and can offer spectacular photo ops.
- Although winter weddings aren’t standard, it means you likely won’t have to compete with other people’s wedding dates.
3. Get Input From Others
The soon-to-be bride and groom feel most of the pressure when it comes to wedding planning. But don’t forget about your loved ones! You don’t need to find the perfect wedding date alone — get input from family members and VIPs on the guest list.
A great way to gather feedback is by simply asking people what they think about your dates (or if they have any ideas). Popular months might not be so popular for most of the wedding party. With their help, you can zero in on a date that works well for everyone.
4. Check for Other Major Events
Hours of wedding planning might go to waste if you don’t check the calendar for other special events. Conventions, championship games, and other major events will bring droves of people to the area and hog up accommodations and potential reception locations. This means your guests might be unable to find a place to stay.
It’s essential to avoid busy times of the year if you’re planning a destination wedding. We recommend starting the planning process early to get confirmation from all vendors before they get booked.
5. Cross Off Specific Dates
Are you having trouble knowing how to pick a wedding date? Try picking dates and times of year that you know will not work. The process of elimination can help you narrow available options to make the right decision.
No-go wedding dates will vary from couple to couple. However, you should generally cross off dates like major holidays, birthdays, other people’s marriage ceremonies, and times when you know your guests would have other big plans.
6. Consider Your Budget and Overall Costs
Before you set a wedding date in stone, you must look at the logistics. How much will the wedding cost? What is your total budget? Will costs vary depending on when you get married?
Answering questions about your budget and anticipated expenses can help you plan a fantastic wedding. Professional wedding planners will walk you through these and other details. However, you’ll want to do your own preliminary research and make plans that fit your price range.
7. Find the Ideal Wedding Venue
Once you compile a short list of potential wedding dates, it’s time to look into wedding venues. Don’t rush through this step — thoroughly research every option to find a venue that will work ideally for you, your partner, and your guests. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, consider a City Hall marriage in San Francisco.
An ideal wedding venue for one person might be an awful choice for someone else. You’ll want to ask a few questions to help identify the right place, including:
- Will the wedding venue match my budget?
- What is the availability during the target wedding date?
- Can the venue accommodate all the guests?
- Are hotels and other lodging options available nearby?
- Does the venue fit my personality and taste?
FAQs
Do you have further questions about how to pick a wedding date? Below, you’ll find answers to some frequently asked questions. Contact City Hall Wedding for more helpful info and wedding ideas.
What are the most popular wedding months?
The most popular months to get married are May through October. Many couples choose outdoor weddings, so late spring and early autumn are ideal weather-wise. The high temperatures of July and August can present a challenge, depending on geographical location.
Are holiday weddings a good idea?
The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. A holiday wedding can make decorating a no-brainer and give more people a chance to attend, especially if it’s a long weekend or they get the entire week off from work. However, many people have longstanding traditions (like travel plans or family vacations) around the holidays—you’ll want to be sensitive to that.
How soon should you set a wedding day?
The sooner you start planning your wedding, the less stress you’ll experience down the road. Setting the wedding date 12 to 18 months in advance will give you plenty of time to finalize details and prepare appropriately. This will also give your guests enough time to save the date and mark their calendars.
Start Planning Your Perfect Wedding
Do you want to know how to pick a wedding date? At City Hall Wedding, we have answers to all your questions about getting married. Check out our blog or contact us today to get started!