Timing Is Everything: Our Wedding Date Decision

There are many factors that go into choosing a wedding date, and the process is different for everyone. Some couples choose a date that's special to them, such as the anniversary of their first date, while others pick their dream venue first and select a date based on the venue's availability. Some people prefer to get married during a certain season, like spring or fall, while others might choose a date that's considered lucky or auspicious according to their cultural or religious background. Budget can also play a role, as peak wedding seasons tend to be more expensive. Ultimately, the date a couple chooses becomes special and significant once they are married, regardless of the practical or romantic considerations that went into the decision.

Sentimental value

There are many ways to add sentimental value to your wedding date. Here are some ideas to consider:

Special Dates

• Choose a date that is already special to you as a couple, such as an anniversary or the day you first met. This way, you only have one date to remember and celebrate every year!
• Pick a date with a fun fact attached to it, like a palindrome (e.g. 02/02/2020) or a sequence of numbers that are meaningful to you.
• Opt for a date with a fun coincidence, like the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks annually on one user's wedding anniversary.
• Select a date that is easy to remember, like May the Fourth (Star Wars Day).

Seasonal Preferences

• Choose a season that holds special meaning for you. For example, if you love the colours and weather of autumn, a fall wedding could be a beautiful choice.
• Consider the time of year when your favourite flowers are in bloom, and plan your wedding around that.
• If you have a strong preference for cooler or warmer weather, let that guide your decision. For instance, if you dislike the heat, avoid summer months for your wedding.

Personal Considerations

• Take into account your school or work schedule. One user mentioned working around their professional school schedule and their partner's master's degree commitments when choosing a wedding date.
• If you or your partner are teachers, consider a summer wedding to avoid disrupting the school year.
• Think about any competing events or commitments, such as a family member's wedding or a close friend's exams, and try to choose a date that avoids these clashes.

Family Traditions

• Borrow a treasured piece of family jewellery, like your grandmother's pearl necklace or your mother's diamond earrings, to add a sentimental touch to your bridal look.
• Incorporate family heirlooms, such as a Celtic loving cup, into your wedding ceremony.
• Wear a veil that has been passed down in your family or used by a close friend at their wedding. This can bring a sense of continuity and tradition to your special day.
• Display your parents' or grandparents' wedding gowns at the ceremony or reception venue, honouring their legacy and adding a touch of sentimentality.

Astrological Significance

• Consult an astrologer or research auspicious wedding dates according to astrology. For instance, getting married during a new moon is considered favourable, as it represents new beginnings.
• Consider the zodiac sign that each month falls under, and the qualities associated with that sign. For example, Libra season (September-October) is connected to relationships and companionship.
• Take into account any astrological retrogrades, like Venus retrograde, which is associated with misunderstandings in relationships, and try to avoid those periods.

Remember, your wedding date is a personal choice that should reflect what matters most to you and your partner. Whether it's a date filled with sentimental value or a practical decision based on availability, make it your own and savour the memories you create!

Budget and availability

Venue and Vendor Availability

The availability of your chosen venue and vendors will likely have the biggest influence on the date of your wedding. If you have your heart set on a particular venue, you may need to be flexible with your date. However, if you have a specific date in mind, be aware that popular dates get booked up quickly, and you may face more competition when booking your venue and vendors.

Seasonal Pricing

Many venues and vendors have seasonal pricing, with costs being significantly lower in months that see less demand. Typically, the most popular wedding dates tend to fall between May and October, with Saturdays in these months being peak dates. Choosing a date during the off-season, such as a winter wedding, can save you money not only on your venue but also on your other vendors.

Days of the Week

The day of the week you choose can also impact the cost of your wedding. Weekday weddings and Fridays or Sundays tend to have lower rates than the more popular Saturdays.

Holidays

Certain holidays, such as Mother's Day and Valentine's Day, can impact floral availability and costs. If you're planning a destination wedding, be mindful of peak travel times, as travel and lodging costs could be much higher.

Guest Availability

If you have people that you must have at your wedding, it's important to choose a date that works for them. This is especially important if a large portion of your guests will be travelling from out of town, as they will need ample time to request time off work and book their travel.

Budget-Friendly Dates

Some dates to consider for a budget-friendly wedding include:

• Off-season dates, such as winter weddings.
• Weekdays or Fridays and Sundays, instead of Saturdays.
• Dates that avoid peak travel times, such as spring break.
• Dates that don't fall on or near popular holidays, like Christmas, Thanksgiving, Mother's Day, or Valentine's Day.
• Dates that don't overlap with other weddings with similar guest lists.

Honeymoon plans

When it comes to honeymoon planning, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Beachside Relaxation

If you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, consider the Caribbean, Hawaii, or the South Pacific. These destinations offer pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. You can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, and sunset sails, or simply unwind on the beach with a cocktail in hand.

Adventure and Exploration

For a more adventurous honeymoon, explore the ancient Roman streets of Europe, meditate in Asian temples, or go on a safari in Africa. You could even combine multiple destinations and create a custom itinerary that suits your interests. Adventure awaits!

All-Inclusive Indulgence

For a truly indulgent experience, consider an all-inclusive resort. These resorts offer everything from private plunge pools and romantic candlelit dinners to complimentary couples' massages and luxurious spa treatments. Popular destinations for all-inclusive honeymoons include St. Lucia, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Maldives.

City Lights and Nightlife

If you and your partner enjoy city breaks, there are plenty of vibrant destinations to choose from. Party on Duval Street in Key West, Florida, or explore the LGBT-friendly scene. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the nightlife of Cancun, Mexico, or stroll through the lively streets of Paris for romantic dinners.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

For nature lovers, there are numerous options to explore the great outdoors. Hike the Alps in Europe, discover the beauty of Hawaii, or snorkel and hike in Fiji. You could even plan a nature-focused honeymoon closer to home, such as a road trip through national parks or a camping trip under the stars.

Remember, your honeymoon should reflect your shared interests and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, there are countless options to choose from. Start planning early, consider your budget, and don't be afraid to seek expert advice to create your dream honeymoon.

Family availability

When it comes to choosing a wedding date, there are many factors to consider, and one of the most important is family availability. Here are some reasons why family availability is crucial and how it can influence your decision:

It is essential to involve your parents, siblings, and other close family members in the decision-making process. These are the people who have supported you throughout your life and will want to celebrate this special day with you. By ensuring that your wedding date works for them, you allow them to be a part of your joy and create lasting memories together.

Prior Commitments

When choosing a wedding date, it is considerate to check with your family members about any prior commitments they may have. This could include work obligations, exams, or other important events they had planned. By doing so, you can increase the chances of your loved ones' attendance and ensure they don't have to choose between your wedding and other significant responsibilities.

Travel Considerations

If you have family members who need to travel to attend your wedding, it is essential to give them ample time to plan their trip. Choosing a date that aligns with their availability and provides them with enough time to make travel arrangements will increase the likelihood of their presence at your wedding.

Special Dates and Seasons

Some couples may wish to involve family traditions or cultural beliefs when selecting a wedding date. For instance, certain seasons or dates may be considered auspicious or hold symbolic value for your family. By incorporating these beliefs, you not only honour your family's heritage but also create a meaningful connection between your wedding and your cultural background.

Flexibility and Compromise

In some cases, it may be challenging to find a date that suits everyone's schedule, especially if you have a large family or many out-of-town relatives. In such instances, it is essential to remain flexible and be open to compromise. You may need to consider alternative dates or seasons to ensure the attendance of those closest to you.

Planning Timeline

When taking into account family availability, it is crucial to start the planning process early. This will allow you to have a wider range of dates to choose from and increase the chances of finding a suitable date for all your VIP guests. A longer planning timeline also gives your family members, especially those with busy schedules, the time to arrange their affairs and be a part of your special day.

In conclusion, choosing a wedding date that considers family availability is a thoughtful and inclusive approach to your wedding planning. It ensures that your loved ones can share this momentous occasion with you and creates an opportunity for everyone to come together in celebration.

Lucky dates

Numerology is an ancient practice that uses numbers to understand the universe and the intrinsic energies that affect life events. Each number has a different meaning, and certain numbers are considered lucky for weddings.

According to numerologist Jasmine Wolfe, the date you get married is important as it will set the tone for your marriage. She recommends using numerology to find a date with a harmonious and balanced vibe.

Wolfe suggests that dates that "add down" to an even number (2, 4, 6, or 8) are favourable, as these numbers reflect balance and harmony. For example, the date 2/22/2022 reduces to the number 3, but still has an energy of 2, which is a "number of relationships". Dates like 6/11/2023 and 11/8/2023 also reduce to 6, which is a good number for weddings.

Numerologist Kamlesh Trivedi suggests using numerology to find a date that matches your "marriage number". This is calculated by adding together both partners' life path numbers, which are derived from their birth dates. For example, if one partner has a life path number of 9 and the other has 7, their marriage number would be 7 (9+7=16, then 1+6=7). In this case, a wedding date of the 7th of any month would be considered lucky.

Some numbers are considered more auspicious for weddings than others. The number 1 is considered lucky as it signifies new beginnings and unity. The number 2 symbolizes partnership and balance, while 3 emphasizes communication and creativity. The number 6 is connected to domestic happiness, and 7 denotes introspection and spiritual depth. The number 9 signifies humanitarianism and completion.

Astrologically, a waxing moon is considered a lucky time to wed, as it is when the moon is "renewed". A supermoon is also lucky, as it is a time of heightened energy and positive change, and it provides extra light for an outdoor wedding.

In Jewish culture, Tuesdays are considered lucky as the Torah states that on the third day (a Tuesday), God looked around and "saw that it was good". In Chinese culture, the number 8 is considered lucky, as it sounds like the word for "wealth", and 9 is also lucky as it sounds like "long-lasting". August 8, or 8/8, is considered a very lucky date.

In the Christian calendar, Advent and the time between Christmas and Epiphany are considered lucky, as they are festive and celebratory times.

While some dates are considered lucky, others are thought to be unlucky. In numerology, dates that work out to 1, 5, or 7 are not recommended for weddings. In astrology, Fridays that fall on the 13th of the month are considered unlucky, as are weddings during a leap year. In Chinese culture, it is considered unlucky to get married in a lunar March, July, or October, as these are the months when traditional ghost festivals take place.

Frequently asked questions