When's The Big Day? How To Pick The Perfect Wedding Date Timeline

Picking a wedding date is one of the first steps in the planning process. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how far in advance you should pick your wedding date, it's recommended to give yourself at least a year to plan. This will provide ample time to find and order a wedding dress, book your wedding venue, and hire other vendors. The Real Wedding Study found that the average engagement length is 15 months, and more than half of couples are engaged for over a year.

If you're planning a longer engagement, you'll have more time to make decisions and save money. However, a longer timeline can be harder to commit to, and you may need to make larger changes to your plans if circumstances change. On the other hand, a shorter timeline can keep the excitement high throughout the planning process and reduce the risk of second-guessing your decisions. However, you may face limited availability with top wedding vendors and venues, especially during peak wedding season.

Picking a venue first gives you more date options

Picking a wedding date and venue can be a tricky process, and it depends on what is more important to you: getting married on a particular date or securing the venue of your dreams. If you have a specific date in mind, you may have a limited selection of venues to choose from, especially if you are set on marrying on a "lucky date" or have a busy schedule. In this case, you may need to be flexible with your venue style and budget.

However, if you are flexible with your timeline, choosing a venue first and then selecting a date based on the venue's availability can give you more options. Wedding venues, especially popular ones, tend to book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. Starting your search early will increase your chances of finding your dream venue and securing your preferred date. It is recommended to start looking for a venue at least nine months to a year in advance to give yourself ample time to find the perfect one, negotiate the contract, and book your date.

By choosing a venue first, you can select a location that suits your wedding style and aligns with your theme, whether it's classic, bohemian, or rustic. You can also consider the venue's package, capacity, and amenities to ensure it fits within your budget. If you have a specific vendor in mind, such as a photographer or caterer, choosing a venue first allows you to coordinate their availability as well.

Additionally, when picking a venue, you can take into account factors such as the surrounding area, accessibility, customer reviews, and your interaction with the venue coordinator. You can also ask about backup plans for outdoor weddings and the duration of the rental period. All these considerations will help you make an informed decision and create a positive guest experience.

In summary, picking a venue first gives you more date options and allows you to find a location that aligns with your vision, budget, and style. It also ensures that you have a wider range of choices, especially if you start your search early.

Start planning 3 weeks after getting engaged

It's important to take time to enjoy your engagement and let the news sink in, but if you're eager to get a head start on wedding planning, there are a few things you can do as early as three weeks after getting engaged.

First, you'll want to start researching wedding venues and thinking about potential wedding dates. The earlier you start looking for venues, the better, as this will give you more flexibility and help you secure your preferred date. Consider the season you want to get married in, as this will impact venue availability and booking timelines. For example, if you're planning a wedding in Chicago, spring and fall are the most popular seasons, followed by summer and winter, so venues tend to book up quickly during these peak seasons. It's recommended to start looking for a venue at least nine months to a year in advance, and even earlier if you have your heart set on a particular venue.

Another early step in the wedding planning process is determining your wedding size. This will impact your venue selection, as some venues have maximum capacities while others may be too large for a smaller guest list. It's also important to get on the same page about the budget for your wedding, as this will guide many of your decisions, including the venue and vendor selections.

You can also start thinking about your bridal party and choosing who will be in it. This is an important step, as your bridesmaids and groomsmen will be there to support you throughout the wedding planning process and on the big day itself.

Finally, you can begin interviewing wedding planners and/or vendors. Wedding planners can be a valuable source of vendor referrals, so even if you're not sure if you need one, it's worth considering interviewing a few to get a sense of their services and expertise.

Remember, there is no strict order to follow when it comes to wedding planning, and the most important thing is to enjoy this exciting time and savour the moment.

The average engagement length is 13-15 months

A longer wedding planning timeline also gives you the opportunity to save for any wedding splurges you desire. However, it can be difficult to commit to a date so far in advance, and there's a chance that you'll need to make changes to your plans if your circumstances change.

If you opt for a shorter wedding planning timeline, you'll get to marry your partner sooner, and it will be easier to maintain excitement throughout the planning process. With less time to second-guess decisions, a shorter timeline can be more enjoyable for those who are indecisive.

However, a shorter timeline may result in limited availability for top wedding vendors, and it may be harder for guests to attend with less notice, especially if they are from out of town.

Regardless of the length of your engagement, it's important to give yourself time to simply enjoy being engaged. You can start by discussing with your partner whether you want a long or short engagement, and then take some time to revel in the excitement of this new chapter before diving into the planning process.

Book vendors at least a year in advance

Picking a wedding date can be a daunting task, and it's essential to start planning early to ensure your special day goes smoothly. While the timeline for booking vendors may vary depending on factors such as the season, venue popularity, and your wedding timeline, it's generally recommended to book vendors at least a year in advance. This will give you ample time to find the perfect vendors, negotiate contracts, and avoid disappointment.

Booking your wedding venue is often the first step in the planning process, as it allows you to officially set a date for your wedding. It's recommended to start looking for a venue at least nine months to a year before your desired date, especially if you have a specific venue in mind. Popular venues, particularly during peak wedding seasons, tend to book up quickly, so it's best to start your search early to secure your preferred date.

Once you have your venue and date secured, you can start booking other vendors. Wedding photographers and videographers are in high demand and are often booked up early, so it's advisable to reserve them 10-18 months in advance. Similarly, good florists book up fast, so it's recommended to start the process of finding one about nine to twelve months before your wedding.

Another crucial vendor to consider is catering. If your venue doesn't provide catering services, you'll need to book an external caterer. Start researching caterers ten to twelve months before your wedding, and aim to book them about eight months in advance. This will ensure you have a variety of options to choose from and secure a vendor who aligns with your budget and theme.

Entertainment is also an essential aspect of your wedding. Whether you choose a live band or a DJ, it's recommended to book your entertainment about eight to twelve months before your wedding. Live bands, in particular, may require more lead time due to the need to coordinate multiple members' schedules.

In addition to these vendors, don't forget to allow sufficient time for other aspects of your wedding, such as cake tasting, hair and makeup trials, and selecting your wedding dress or suit. By creating a comprehensive timeline and starting the booking process early, you'll be well on your way to a stress-free and memorable wedding day.

Peak wedding season is between May and October

Wedding planning can be a lengthy process, and it's essential to consider various factors, such as the season, venue popularity, and timeline. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and choose a wedding date that works best for you.

Peak Wedding Season

Peak wedding season is when the majority of weddings take place, and it typically starts in early summer and lasts through mid-fall. According to recent studies, 42% of weddings occurred between September and November, with fall solidifying its position as the peak of wedding season. September and October are often considered the most popular months for tying the knot, each accounting for 17% of weddings in 2023.

The appeal of the fall season for weddings is undeniable, with its temperate weather, the lull between summer and winter holidays, and the stunning fall foliage providing the perfect backdrop for celebrations. This peak season has a significant impact on vendor availability and demand, with prices typically higher due to increased competition for bookings.

Planning for Peak Season

If you're planning a wedding during peak season, it's essential to start early. Popular venues and vendors tend to book up quickly, so it's recommended to begin your search for a venue at least nine months to a year in advance. This will give you ample time to find the perfect location, negotiate contracts, and secure your desired date.

Additionally, having a few potential wedding dates in mind before starting your venue search will provide you with more flexibility. Keep in mind that peak wedding season in certain regions, like Chicago, extends from May to October, so venues during this period are in high demand.

Advantages of Peak Season

Choosing a wedding date during peak season has its advantages. These months are typically known for pleasant weather, and they fall outside of super-popular travel seasons, making it more convenient for guests to book travel and accommodations.

Disadvantages of Peak Season

However, there are also drawbacks to setting your wedding date during peak season. The high demand for venues and vendors during these months means that you might find certain vendors already booked, especially if you have a shorter engagement period. Additionally, some venues and vendors charge premium prices during peak season, so you may encounter higher costs.

In conclusion, while peak wedding season presents both benefits and challenges, the key to successful planning is early preparation. By starting your search well in advance, you can secure your dream venue and vendors, ensuring a memorable celebration during the popular months of May to October.

Frequently asked questions