Weddings In 2023: What's Possible And What's Not

Weddings are happening this year, but they might look a little different to how they did before the pandemic. While marriage rates have been declining, the pandemic didn't seem to change weddings forever. However, it did accelerate some existing trends, like smaller weddings, and the rise of microweddings and elopements.

In 2023, weddings are expected to be more personalised, with couples breaking the mould of a typical wedding. This includes moving away from large wedding parties, and phasing out traditions like the bouquet toss. There's also less emphasis on trends, with the focus instead on the couple and their guests' experiences.

While the pandemic may have caused a shift in priorities, some things have stayed the same. Big weddings are still popular, and couples are still happy to splash out. But with a smaller guest list, they can afford to make the experience more lavish.

Wedding season

According to recent studies, wedding season typically spans from late spring to early fall, with a peak in June and September. However, in recent years, fall has become the most popular choice for weddings, with 42% of weddings taking place between September and November. This shift towards fall weddings could be attributed to the temperate weather, stunning fall foliage, and the lull between summer and winter holidays.

When choosing a wedding date, it's essential to consider the demand for venues and vendors. Getting married during peak season means higher prices and more competition for bookings. If you're set on a fall wedding, be prepared to book early and expect higher costs. On the other hand, opting for an off-season wedding in the winter months could score you better deals and more availability.

Another factor to consider is the weather. If you're dreaming of an outdoor ceremony, late spring to early fall offers comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. For those seeking a beach wedding, May through August could be ideal, as these months offer warmer weather and are peak vacation times for guests.

Lastly, don't forget the importance of personal preferences and schedules. Whether you're set on a specific date or want to avoid certain months, finding a date that works for you and your partner is crucial. With proper planning and flexibility, you can navigate the busy wedding season and make your big day everything you've ever dreamed of.

Pros and cons of peak season

While there are no rules about when you can and can't get married, there are certainly peak seasons for weddings. In general, wedding season extends from late spring and continues through early fall, with weddings peaking in June and September.

Pros

• Temperate weather: Warmer temperatures and longer days make for a pleasant setting and stunning scenery.
• Vivacious scenery: The change in seasons brings vibrant foliage, flowers, and natural backdrops for photos.
• Guest convenience: Peak season often coincides with vacation time, making it easier for guests to attend.
• Venue availability: In some regions, certain venues are more available during the peak season, increasing your chances of securing your dream location.

Cons

• Higher demand: Peak season means more competition for venues, vendors, and other wedding services, which may result in limited availability.
• Higher prices: Due to increased demand, prices for venues, vendors, and other services may be more expensive.
• Less flexibility: With more couples vying for the same dates and services, you may need to be flexible and open to alternatives.
• Inclement weather: Even in peak season, there is a chance of unexpected weather disruptions, such as hurricanes or unseasonably hot or cold temperatures.

Ultimately, the decision to have a peak season wedding depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, budget, and the availability of your desired venue and vendors.

Pros and cons of off-season

The "off-season" for weddings is generally considered to be the winter months, from December to March. However, the slow period for weddings can vary depending on the region's climate. For example, warmer destinations like Southern California or Florida tend to have quieter summers due to the high temperatures.

Pros:

• Increased vendor availability: It is easier to secure top-choice vendors during the off-season as they tend to get booked up months in advance during peak season. This means you may be able to plan your wedding in a shorter time frame and still get your first-choice vendors.
• Potential cost savings: Wedding vendors often charge a premium during peak season due to high demand. In contrast, during the off-season, you may be able to take advantage of discounted rates and special offers from venues looking to fill their calendars.
• Fewer scheduling conflicts with guests: An off-season wedding is more likely to have a higher guest attendance rate as it avoids scheduling conflicts with weekend vacations, family reunions, and other weddings that are common during peak season.
• Romantic ambiance: If you don't mind cold weather, an off-season wedding can be seriously romantic. Think candlelit receptions, fresh garlands, mulled wine, and elegant holiday decor.
• Lowered honeymoon rates: Similar to wedding venues and vendors, hotels and resorts often offer discounted rates during their slow months, which are typically from December to March.

Cons:

• Inclement weather: Off-season weddings, especially in colder months, come with the risk of freezing temperatures, heavy rain, snow, and even natural disasters. This is particularly relevant for couples who want an outdoor wedding.
• Vendor closures and limited availability: While vendor availability is generally better during the off-season, it is important to note that some vendors may be closed or book vacations during this time. Additionally, specialty vendors may charge higher rates during the off-season.
• Limited access to certain items: Sourcing seasonal items like flowers and food can be challenging during the off-season. Certain flowers may not be in season, resulting in limited selection and higher costs. Similarly, foodies may struggle with menu planning as caterers offer different options depending on the season.
• Shorter days and less sunlight: During the winter months, there are fewer hours of daylight, which can impact your wedding timeline and photography. You may need to hire your photographer for longer hours to maximize natural light photos and consider a first look to efficiently capture all the desired shots.
• Local closures and limited activities: Some cities or towns may shut down certain businesses or areas during the off-season, which can impact your wedding weekend plans and guest experience.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to choosing an off-season or peak-season wedding. Each option has its pros and cons, and couples should consider their priorities, budget, and personal preferences when making their choice.

Choosing a date

Seasonality

The first thing to consider is the time of year. The wedding season typically spans from May to October, with a peak in the early summer to mid-fall. Fall has been the most popular season for weddings since 2015, with September and October being the most popular months. Before that, summer was the most popular season.

There are pros and cons to getting married during the peak season. The weather is usually temperate, and there are fewer conflicts with guests' vacations and holidays. However, demand for venues and vendors is higher during these months, and prices tend to be more expensive.

If you're looking to save money, consider getting married during the off-season, which is usually from December to February. Vendors may offer discounts during this time, and it may be more convenient for planning. However, keep in mind that outdoor weddings may not be an option in colder regions, and there could be limited availability at coveted winter destinations like ski resorts.

Day of the Week

In addition to the time of year, the day of the week you choose will also impact your wedding. Saturday is the most popular day of the week for weddings, regardless of the season. This means that there is more competition for venues and vendors, and prices may be higher.

If you're looking for a less competitive option, consider choosing a weekday wedding. This may give you more flexibility with vendors and venues, and it could also be more affordable. However, keep in mind that some guests may have work or school commitments that could impact their ability to attend.

Personal Preferences

Finally, don't forget to consider your personal preferences when choosing a date. Do you prefer a specific season or time of year for sentimental or aesthetic reasons? Are there any dates that hold special meaning for you and your partner?

It's also important to think about the availability of your must-have vendors and your desired venue. If you have your heart set on a particular photographer, band, or caterer, their schedule may impact your choice of dates. The same is true for your venue – if you have a dream location, their availability may influence your decision.

In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when choosing a date for your wedding. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can select a date that aligns with your preferences, budget, and desired level of convenience.

Wedding budgets

Know the Average Costs

According to wedding planning website Zola, the average cost of a wedding in 2023 was $29,000, up from $28,000 in 2022. This figure is expected to rise to $33,000 in 2024. The most expensive state to get married in is Rhode Island, with an average cost of $49,207, while the cheapest state is Alaska, with an average cost of $14,444. These figures can give you a benchmark when planning your wedding budget.

Consider the Venue and Catering Costs

The wedding venue and catering are typically the biggest expenses, with costs ranging from $6,500 to $12,000 for the venue and $6,500 to $10,000 for catering. These costs can vary depending on the location and the number of guests. When considering a venue, don't forget to factor in additional fees and charges, which can quickly increase the overall cost.

Prioritize Your Must-Haves

Sit down with your partner and decide on your top three must-haves for the wedding. This could be a live band, an open bar, a videographer, or a particular venue. By prioritizing what matters most to you, you can allocate your budget accordingly and save in other categories if needed.

Be Flexible with Dates and Locations

Wedding venues and vendors are in high demand during the peak season, which typically runs from May/June to October. If you're willing to consider off-peak dates or locations, you may be able to find better deals and discounts. Winter weddings, for example, are considered off-season and can be more affordable, although there may be limited availability due to the holidays.

Explore Cost-Saving Options

There are several ways to save money on your wedding:

• Digital save-the-dates: Sending digital save-the-dates instead of printed invitations is an easy way to save money.
• Thrift wedding attire: Consider shopping secondhand for wedding outfits and decorations.
• Cash funds: Adding a personalized cash fund to your registry can help cover wedding costs or other major expenses.
• Bring your own vendors: Opt for a venue that allows you to bring your own vendors, as this can often be more cost-effective than using the venue's in-house catering and services.
• Compare prices: Don't be afraid to shop around and compare prices from multiple vendors. This can help you find the best deals and stay within your budget.

Plan According to Guest Count

The number of guests can significantly impact your budget, especially when it comes to catering and venue costs. When evaluating venues, consider the size of your guest list and how it will affect pricing. A larger guest list may require a bigger venue and more catering, while a smaller, intimate wedding can be more cost-effective.

Use Budgeting Tools

Take advantage of budgeting tools and spreadsheets to help you plan and track your wedding expenses. These tools can assist you in allocating your budget across different categories and staying organized throughout the planning process.

Remember, your wedding budget should be tailored to your specific needs and priorities. Don't feel pressured to spend beyond your means, and focus on creating a day that reflects your relationship and future together.

Frequently asked questions