Weekday Weddings: Can You Get Married During The Week?

While Saturday has long been the most popular day for weddings, there's no rule that says you can't get married on a weekday. In fact, one in five weddings now takes place during the workweek, and this trend is becoming increasingly common among Gen Z couples. There are several pros to having a weekday wedding, including increased availability of venues and vendors, lower costs, and more flexibility. However, there are also some cons to consider, such as lower attendance rates and a potentially less lively atmosphere. Ultimately, the decision to have a weekday wedding depends on your specific circumstances and priorities.

Pros of weekday weddings

There are many advantages to having a weekday wedding. Here are some of the pros:

Budget-friendly

You can expect some pretty sizable savings on everything from venues to catering to transportation and more. Many venues will offer generously discounted rates to encourage bookings on weekdays, which would otherwise be off-peak days. These savings can allow more wiggle room in your budget and make it possible to marry in your dream setting.

Vendor availability

The best vendors and venues are often booked out far in advance for coveted weekend wedding dates. A weekday wedding will open up a world of options to work with your favourite vendors without the booking competition. Similarly, if your ideal venue is booked on Saturdays, a weekday might be your only shot to secure it and save some money in the process.

Low-key atmosphere

For couples planning an intimate wedding with only their nearest and dearest, the particular day of the week may not be as important. A smaller guest list offers more flexibility in your date selection because you're working around the schedule of fewer people and can easily confirm availability with your VIPs in advance.

Friday night fun

Fridays are especially popular for weekday weddings because they allow your guests to celebrate late into the night, with the whole weekend to recover.

More flexibility with your wedding date

If a certain date or number is sentimental to you and your partner, being open to a weekday wedding makes that anniversary much more feasible.

Less competition

If you have your heart set on a particular venue or vendor, but they are booked every weekend for the foreseeable future, switching to a weekday option will increase your chances of securing your dream team.

Guests save money

Flights and accommodations tend to be more expensive on weekends. By having a weekday wedding, you help your guests save money before the big day, which they will appreciate.

More time at the wedding destination

A weekday wedding gives your guests a few days following the celebration to truly enjoy the location and gather with friends.

Cons of weekday weddings

While there are many benefits to hosting a weekday wedding, there are also some drawbacks. Here are some of the cons to consider before planning your nuptials on a weekday:

Inconvenience to Guests

A weekday wedding is likely to cause scheduling conflicts for at least some of your guests. They may have to take time off work, especially if they don't have paid time off, or if they are travelling from out of town. Weeknights, in particular, can be challenging as guests may have routine obligations such as children's activities or night classes that are hard to work around.

Lower Attendance

It is likely that more guests will RSVP "no" to a weekday wedding compared to a weekend celebration. This is because it is more difficult for people to attend during the work week, and they may need to take time off or make special arrangements. If having all your loved ones present is a priority, a Saturday wedding might be a better option.

Less Lively and Shorter Event

Since many guests will have to wake up early for work or school the next day, a weekday wedding may be less lively and might need to end earlier. Guests may also leave the wedding early if they have to be up early the following day. This is especially true for Monday to Thursday weddings, as guests won't be as inclined to party in the middle of the week.

Vendor Availability

While weekday weddings generally offer more vendor availability, it's possible that some vendors only work events on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Be sure to ask your desired vendors about their availability, as their schedules may vary.

Scheduling Challenges

If you're planning a short-notice wedding, a weekday celebration might be more challenging. Guests may have difficulty securing time off with only a few weeks' notice. It's also important to consider the timing of your event, especially if it falls during the workday. You may need to start earlier in the day or schedule it for later in the evening to accommodate your guests' work schedules.

Choosing the best day of the week for a wedding

The best day of the week for a wedding depends on several factors, including guest availability, cost, and the type of celebration desired. While Saturday weddings are the most traditional choice, there are benefits and drawbacks to every day of the week.

Monday and Thursday Weddings

Monday and Thursday are good options for a weekday wedding. As they bookend the workweek, guests may be more inclined to take the day off and recover before returning to work. Monday weddings are also ideal if you want to throw a welcome party for your guests, giving them a chance to mingle and get to know each other before the main event. Thursday weddings are a good choice if you want to create a more relaxed, chill atmosphere for your celebration.

Friday Weddings

Friday weddings are a popular choice for couples looking for a more affordable option, as they are usually cheaper than Saturday weddings. They also offer more setup time, as they typically start later in the day. Friday weddings are perfect for creating a party atmosphere, especially if you're looking for a late-night dance party. However, there may be more late arrivals as people are coming from work, and it may be difficult for your wedding party to attend a Thursday night rehearsal dinner.

Saturday Weddings

Saturday is the most popular day for weddings, as it is the most convenient for guests' schedules. It allows for a longer reception and an after-party, and there is more availability for a rehearsal dinner and a goodbye brunch. However, it is also the most expensive day and has less venue and vendor availability.

Sunday Weddings

Sunday weddings are more affordable than Saturdays and offer flexibility with the time of day. They are a good choice for religious couples who may require a Sunday wedding or need to avoid certain Saturdays. However, guests may need to leave early due to work or travel plans the next day, and there may be lower attendance.

Ultimately, the best day of the week for your wedding depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider your budget, guest list, and the type of atmosphere you want to create when making your decision.

Reasons for choosing a weekday wedding

Weekday weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples. While Saturday is the most popular day of the week for weddings, there are several reasons why you might choose to get married on a weekday instead. Here are some advantages to hosting your wedding on a weekday:

Cost Savings

The cost of venues and vendors is usually lower on weekdays. Since weekends are in high demand, you may be able to get a better deal from venues and vendors looking to fill the rest of their calendar. This can be a great option for couples who want to save money on their wedding expenses.

Dream Venue and Vendor Availability

Your dream venue and vendors may be more likely to be available on a weekday. Popular venues and vendors can be booked out for months or even years in advance for weekends. By choosing a weekday, you increase your chances of securing your first-choice options and may even get a more affordable price.

Guest Convenience

A weekday wedding can be more convenient for your guests, especially if they are travelling. Airfare and hotel accommodations are typically cheaper on weekdays, reducing the financial burden on your guests. Additionally, guests may appreciate having more flexibility to enjoy the wedding destination and explore the area.

Intimate Affair

A weekday wedding often results in a smaller guest list as some people may not be able to take time off work to attend. This can be advantageous if you prefer a more intimate celebration with your closest friends and family.

Unique and Non-Traditional

Having a weekday wedding allows you to break away from the traditional Saturday wedding. You can choose a fun theme, such as a "Taco Tuesday Wedding" or a "Thirsty Thursday Wedding," adding a unique and memorable twist to your special day.

While there are many benefits to a weekday wedding, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks as well, such as lower attendance and shorter event duration. However, if you're open to a non-traditional approach and the advantages align with your priorities, a weekday wedding could be the perfect choice for your special day.

Weekday wedding planning advice

Yes, you can have a wedding on a weekday! In fact, one in five weddings now takes place during the workweek. While there are some cons to this approach, there are also plenty of pros.

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Frequently asked questions