Monday Weddings: A Unique And Intimate Affair

Monday weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples. While they may not be the traditional choice, there are several advantages to this unconventional wedding day. From increased availability of venues and vendors to cost savings, Monday weddings can be a great option for those looking for a unique and intimate celebration. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as lower guest attendance and the possibility of an earlier end time. Ultimately, the decision to have a Monday wedding depends on the couple's priorities and what they envision for their special day.

Pros of a Monday wedding: more affordable, better vendor availability, more intimate, cheaper travel, and more time with guests

Monday weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples. While it may be an unconventional option, there are many pros to having a wedding on a Monday.

Firstly, Monday weddings are more affordable. Mondays are considered non-peak days in the wedding industry, so you are likely to find discounts and incentives for both venues and vendors. This means you can have your dream wedding without breaking the bank.

Secondly, you are more likely to secure your dream venue and vendors on a Monday. Since most weddings are held on Fridays and Saturdays, these days tend to book up first. By opting for a Monday wedding, you significantly increase the odds of booking your preferred vendor and venue, even at late notice.

Monday weddings also tend to be more intimate and relaxed. As it can be challenging for guests to take time off work or attend knowing they have to work the next day, Monday weddings usually result in smaller guest lists. This can be a positive if you prefer the idea of a more intimate celebration, allowing you to easily spend quality time with each guest.

If you have a lot of guests travelling from out of town or are planning a destination wedding, a Monday wedding can also help cut costs. Airfare and hotel rates are typically cheaper on weekdays, making it more affordable for your guests to attend.

Finally, a Monday wedding gives you more time to spend with your guests. With a smaller guest list, you won't feel rushed and can make the rounds to visit and thank everyone in attendance.

While there are many advantages to a Monday wedding, it's important to remember that what works for one couple may not work for another. It's essential to consider your priorities and make a choice that aligns with your vision for your special day.

Cons of a Monday wedding: more difficult for guests, lower attendance, shorter duration, and fewer attractions

Monday weddings are expected to be a major trend this fall, but there are some cons to this idea.

More difficult for guests

Monday weddings can be harder for guests to attend. Guests may need to take time off work or school to be able to come to the wedding, which can be a burden for some. This means that there may be lower attendance at your wedding, with more guests sending their regrets.

Shorter duration

Monday weddings may need to be shorter events, as they can't burn the midnight oil on a school or work night. Guests may also want to leave earlier if they have to work or study the next day. This means that your wedding may be less lively than a weekend wedding, and you may need to skip the traditional morning-after brunch.

Fewer attractions

There may be fewer attractions and accommodations open for your guests on a Monday. You will need to do your research to see what restaurants and activities are available on the day.

Despite these potential cons, a Monday wedding can be a great option, especially if you are looking for a more intimate and relaxed celebration. It can also be a more affordable option, with venues and vendors often offering discounts for non-peak days.

Planning a Monday wedding: give guests enough time to plan, host extra events over the weekend, and skip the morning-after brunch

Monday weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples. While there are some drawbacks, such as lower guest attendance, there are also several advantages, including cost savings and greater availability of venues and vendors. Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable Monday wedding:

Give Guests Enough Time to Plan

If you're hosting a destination wedding or have guests travelling from out of town, be sure to give your friends and family members plenty of notice. This will allow them to take time off work and arrange their travel plans accordingly. Sending out "change the date" cards, updating your wedding website, and sending emails are all great ways to get in touch with your guests quickly and efficiently. Keep in mind that some people may not be able to make it to a Monday wedding, and that's okay! A smaller wedding can have its own benefits, including cost savings and less accommodation hassle.

Host Extra Events Over the Weekend

One of the perks of a Monday wedding is having the entire weekend prior to plan unique welcome activities for your guests. This is especially delightful for those who are travelling to attend your wedding, as they will likely arrive over the weekend. In addition to the rehearsal dinner on Sunday, you can host a casual welcome event on Saturday, such as a BBQ, a trolley tour, a scavenger hunt, or a picnic. These pre-wedding activities are a great way to celebrate with your loved ones before the main event.

Plan for a Smaller Guest List

It's important to accept that RSVPs will likely be lower for a weekday wedding. This is because it can be more challenging for guests to attend due to work, school, childcare, and travel constraints. However, this can also be seen as a positive, as it allows for a more intimate wedding with your closest loved ones. Those who are able to attend will appreciate the extra time they get to spend with you on your special day.

Skip the Morning-After Brunch

Many of your guests will likely need to head home immediately after your wedding, so there's no need to plan a farewell brunch the following morning. Instead, use that money to plan additional events for the weekend before your wedding. If you still want to host a small get-together, consider a brunch at a local restaurant for your immediate family members.

Be Mindful of Timing

While you don't have to cut down on the timing of your festivities, it's important to be prepared for some early departures. Guests with work or school the next day may need to leave early to get some rest. However, your closest family and friends will likely be happy to celebrate with you for a longer stretch, even if it means a bleary-eyed Tuesday morning. If you're concerned about an early end to the night, you can always host a smaller after-party for those who want to keep the party going.

Vendors for a Monday wedding: some vendors may be cheaper, but others may not operate on weekdays

Vendors for a Monday Wedding: Pros and Cons

Monday weddings are a break from tradition and can offer a unique, intimate vibe. While some vendors may be cheaper, others may not operate on weekdays. Here are some things to consider when planning a Monday wedding:

Pros:

Cost Savings:

Monday is typically considered a non-peak day for weddings, so you may encounter discounts and incentives for both venues and vendors. This can be a significant advantage, especially if you're working with a tight budget.

Vendor and Venue Availability:

Since most weddings are held on Fridays and Saturdays, your dream venue and vendors are more likely to be available on a Monday. This is especially beneficial if you're planning your wedding with short notice, as weekend dates tend to book up quickly.

Intimate and Relaxed Atmosphere:

Monday weddings are usually smaller because it can be challenging for guests to take time off work or attend knowing they have to work the next day. If you prefer a more intimate celebration, a Monday wedding can be a great option.

Cons:

Guest Availability:

One of the main challenges of a Monday wedding is that it may be difficult for your guests to attend due to work, school, or other commitments. This can lead to lower RSVP rates and potentially impact the overall atmosphere of your wedding.

Vendor Availability:

While some vendors may offer discounts for weekdays, others may only operate on Fridays through Sundays. Be sure to ask your desired vendors about their availability and whether they offer weekday services.

Shorter Event Timing:

Monday weddings may need to end earlier to comply with venue restrictions and guest considerations. Guests might also want to leave earlier if they have work or other commitments the next day.

Tips for Planning a Monday Wedding:

Research Vendor Options:

When planning a Monday wedding, it's essential to research and reach out to vendors ahead of time to inquire about their weekday availability and rates.

Be Flexible:

Consider adjusting the timing or order of your wedding events to accommodate guest schedules. For example, you could host a welcome party or gathering after the wedding to give guests a chance to reconnect and extend the celebration.

Consider Guest Accommodations:

Research restaurants, activities, and accommodations that are open on Mondays to ensure your guests have options during their stay.

Start Planning Early:

To secure your desired vendors and venue, it's advisable to start planning your Monday wedding early. This will give you a better chance of booking your top choices and potentially locking in lower rates.

In conclusion, a Monday wedding can offer cost savings and increased vendor availability, but it's important to carefully consider the potential impact on guest attendance and vendor options. With thoughtful planning and flexibility, you can absolutely make a Monday wedding a success and create a memorable, intimate celebration.

Monday wedding trends: one in five weddings now takes place during the workweek, and Monday weddings are expected to be a major trend this fall

Monday weddings are expected to be a major trend this fall, with only two percent of weddings taking place on Mondays, making it easier to secure your dream team of vendors. While some guests may not be able to make it due to work or school, a Monday wedding can be an intimate and relaxed affair with those closest to you. Here are some things to consider if you're planning a Monday wedding:

Give Guests Enough Notice

Be sure to give your guests plenty of notice by sending out "change the date" cards, updating your wedding website, and sending emails. This will allow your loved ones to take time off work and arrange any necessary travel plans. Keep in mind that some people may not be able to attend, and that's okay! A smaller wedding can have its advantages, including cost savings and less accommodation-related stress.

Plan Extra Events Over the Weekend

One advantage of a Monday wedding is having the entire preceding weekend to plan unique welcome activities for your guests, especially if they are travelling to attend. You can host a casual welcome BBQ, a rehearsal dinner, or even plan group activities like a trolley tour, scavenger hunt, or a picnic. Get creative and make the most of the extra time!

Host an Evening Event

It's best to host your Monday wedding in the evening to accommodate those who have work or school during the day. While some sources suggest keeping the event shorter, others encourage you to go ahead and celebrate as long as you like! Just be prepared for some early departures, as guests may need to rest up for the next day. You can always host a smaller after-party for those who want to keep the party going.

Skip the Morning-After Brunch

Since many guests will likely need to head home immediately after your wedding, there's no need for a farewell brunch the next day. Use the money saved to plan more events for the weekend before your wedding, or host a small brunch for your immediate family at a local restaurant.

Pros and Cons of Monday Weddings

There are both advantages and disadvantages to consider when planning a Monday wedding. On the pro side, you'll likely encounter discounts and incentives for venues and vendors, and you'll have a better chance of booking your dream venue on short notice. Monday weddings also tend to be more intimate and relaxed, and they can be more affordable for both you and your guests in terms of travel costs.

However, there are some cons to keep in mind. It may be more difficult for guests to attend due to work and other commitments, leading to lower attendance. The event may need to end earlier to comply with venue restrictions and accommodate guests who have to work the next day. Additionally, some vendors may not work events on weekdays, so be sure to check their availability.

Frequently asked questions