When's The Best Time To Set That Wedding Date?

Planning a wedding can be a lengthy process, and the timeline varies depending on the couple's preferences and circumstances. On average, it takes about a year to plan a wedding, but this can range from a few weeks to two years or more. The first step after getting engaged is to decide on the length of the engagement, which will determine the wedding roadmap. Once the timeline is set, couples can start working on their to-do list, which includes saving up, booking vendors, and sending out save-the-dates.

Save-the-dates are typically sent out six to twelve months before the wedding, with eight to ten months being the recommended timeframe. This allows guests enough time to make necessary arrangements such as travel plans and accommodation. For destination weddings, save-the-dates should be sent out even earlier, ideally ten to twelve months in advance, to give guests ample time to plan their trip.

Send 'save the dates' 8-12 months in advance

Sending out save-the-date cards is an important step in the wedding planning process. These notifications let your guests know that you and your partner have set a date for your wedding, even if you haven't yet decided on the exact venue or time of the ceremony. This ensures that your loved ones can block off the date in their calendars and don't accidentally double-book.

Save-the-dates should typically be sent out around 8-12 months before your wedding day. This may sound early, but it gives your guests time to plan. Depending on their personal situations and professional obligations, they may need to request time off work, arrange childcare, make travel plans, or save up for hotel costs. Sending out your save-the-dates early also ensures that your guests don't already have plans that are impossible or impractical to change. This is especially important if you're planning a wedding during a busy time of year, such as summer or Christmas.

If you're planning a destination wedding, it's a good idea to send out your save-the-dates even earlier—up to 10-11 months in advance. Destination weddings require more planning for your guests, who may need to apply for new passports or visas and save up for plane tickets, accommodation, and other travel expenses.

However, it's important to note that sending out your save-the-dates too early can backfire. If you send them out more than a year in advance, it may be too early for your guests to ask for time off work or plan their schedules. They may also forget about the date or, as your plans become clearer, you may realise that you want to change the date or location of your wedding. It's also best to wait until you've finalised your guest list to avoid any confusion or embarrassment.

In general, it's a good idea to choose a timeline that works for you and your partner. If you enjoy the wedding planning process, a longer timeline may appeal to you as it gives you more time to make decisions. However, this can be a con if you are indecisive or get overwhelmed easily. On the other hand, a shorter timeline can keep the excitement and enjoyment throughout the planning process and reduce the chances of you second-guessing your decisions.

Allow 2 months for RSVPs

When it comes to wedding planning, timing is everything. While it's important to choose a timeline that works for you and your partner, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind when deciding how far in advance to set your wedding date. One crucial aspect is allowing enough time for guests to RSVP. Here's why allowing two months for RSVPs is ideal:

Finalising the Guest List

It's essential to have a clear picture of your guest list before sending out invitations. This can be a challenging task, especially when working within budget constraints. However, taking the time to carefully consider who you want to invite will pay off in the long run. It's worth noting that some guests may require more time to plan their attendance, such as those with busy work schedules, family commitments, or those travelling from out of town. Sending out "save the dates" about 8-10 months in advance can be helpful, especially for destination weddings, but it's crucial to finalise your guest list before sending formal invitations.

Vendor Requirements

Various wedding vendors, including your caterer, transportation company, and venue, will require a final guest count ahead of the big day. This information is essential for them to plan accordingly, including organising meals, tables, chairs, and even shuttle services for your guests. By allowing two months for RSVPs, you can ensure you have the necessary details to provide accurate numbers to your vendors and avoid last-minute chaos.

Seating Arrangements

Knowing the number of confirmed guests is crucial for creating a seating arrangement. Finalising the guest list within two months gives you ample time to design a thoughtful seating plan that considers the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. This task can be challenging and time-consuming, so starting early is advantageous.

Following Up on Delinquent RSVPs

Despite your best efforts, there may be guests who don't respond by the deadline. Allowing a two-month window gives you some leeway to follow up with those who haven't responded. It's essential to enforce the timeline and gently remind guests of the importance of their timely response. This extra time ensures you can confirm attendance and finalise arrangements without added stress.

Travel Plans for Out-of-Town Guests

For guests travelling from out of town, advanced planning is crucial. By allowing two months for RSVPs, your guests will have sufficient time to make travel arrangements, request time off work, and sort out any necessary details for their trip. This consideration ensures that your guests can attend without the added stress of last-minute planning.

In conclusion, allowing two months for RSVPs is beneficial for both the happy couple and their guests. It provides the necessary time to finalise guest lists, meet vendor requirements, create seating arrangements, follow up on delinquent RSVPs, and gives out-of-town guests ample time to plan their trip. This timeline helps ensure a well-organised and enjoyable celebration for everyone involved.

Choose a wedding dress early

Wedding planning can be a long process, and it's important to get a head start on choosing your wedding dress. While you may be tempted to put it off, there are several reasons why choosing your wedding dress early is a smart decision.

First and foremost, wedding dresses typically take a long time to be produced and can often take anywhere from four to nine months. This is because many gowns are made-to-order and may include intricate details and embellishments that require significant time and craftsmanship. By choosing your dress early, you can ensure that it will be ready in time for your big day.

Additionally, choosing your wedding dress early gives you the opportunity to have multiple fittings. A wedding dress should fit you perfectly, and this often requires alterations by a professional seamstress. Scheduling fittings in advance will help ensure that your dress fits like a glove and that any necessary changes can be made without feeling rushed. It's also important to consider the cost of alterations in your budget, as they can add up quickly.

Another reason to choose your wedding dress early is to allow for any last-minute design changes or add-ons. As your wedding day approaches, you may decide to make some tweaks to your gown, such as changing the neckline or adding straps. Giving yourself enough time will ensure that these changes can be made without incurring rush fees, which can be costly.

Furthermore, choosing your wedding dress early will give you peace of mind and help you feel more organised. With so many decisions to make during wedding planning, selecting your dress early on will give you one less thing to worry about. It will also allow you to focus on other important aspects of your wedding, such as choosing bridesmaids' dresses, accessories, and finalising the details of your ceremony and reception.

Lastly, choosing your wedding dress early can help you stay within your budget. By starting your search early, you'll have more time to compare prices, shop around, and find the best deals. You may also be able to take advantage of sales or discounts that could save you a significant amount of money.

In conclusion, choosing your wedding dress early is a wise decision that will help ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding planning process. It will give you the time you need to find the perfect dress, have it tailored to your body, and make any necessary changes without feeling rushed or incurring additional costs. So, don't delay – start your search for the perfect wedding dress today!

Book vendors 1 year in advance

Booking your wedding vendors is a crucial step in the wedding planning process. While it's important to choose a timeline that works for you and your partner, booking vendors 1 year in advance is generally recommended to ensure availability and a smooth planning process. Here are some reasons why booking vendors early is advantageous:

Vendor Availability

One of the main benefits of booking vendors 1 year in advance is securing your preferred choices. The wedding industry has seen a shift towards earlier bookings, especially after the post-pandemic rush. By booking early, you increase the likelihood of getting your top choices for photographers, videographers, florists, caterers, bands or DJs, and other essential vendors. These vendors tend to book up quickly, and early booking ensures you don't miss out on your dream team.

Planning Advantage

Booking vendors 1 year in advance gives you a head start on planning and allows for a more relaxed approach. With your key vendors secured, you can focus on other aspects of the wedding without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. This lead time also enables you to build strong relationships with your vendors, ensuring they understand your vision and can provide personalised recommendations to enhance your special day.

Budget Management

Early booking can also assist with budget management. With a year in hand, you have the flexibility to compare prices, negotiate packages, and plan for any additional expenses that may arise. Some vendors may offer discounts for early bookings or for working with wedding planners, helping you save money. This lead time also gives you the opportunity to save up for any desired splurges or unexpected costs.

Guest Convenience

Booking your vendors and finalising the wedding date well in advance is considerate to your guests, especially those who need to make travel arrangements or request time off work. Sending out save the dates 8-10 months before the wedding is generally recommended, giving your guests ample time to plan their attendance without feeling rushed or having to make last-minute adjustments to their schedules.

Flexibility and Peace of Mind

Booking vendors 1 year in advance provides flexibility and peace of mind. With your key vendors secured, you can focus on the finer details and make adjustments as needed without feeling rushed. It also reduces the stress of last-minute availability issues or having to settle for vendors who may not be your first choice.

In conclusion, booking vendors 1 year in advance is a strategic move that ensures availability, enhances the planning process, provides budget flexibility, and offers convenience to your guests. It gives you a solid foundation to build your dream wedding upon and allows you to enjoy a stress-free planning journey.

Plan a destination wedding 12-18 months in advance

Planning a wedding can be a long process with many moving parts, and this is especially true for destination weddings, which often involve more complexity, distance, language barriers, and different legal requirements. Here are some tips to help you plan your destination wedding 12-18 months in advance:

12-18 Months in Advance:

• Choose your destination: Select a location that suits your vision, budget, and desired level of complexity. Consider the weather, season, and any cultural or logistical considerations unique to the area.
• Budgeting: Determine how much you want to spend and allocate funds for travel, accommodations, venue, vendors, etc.
• Legal requirements: Research the legal requirements for getting married at your chosen destination, including paperwork and waiting periods.
• Venue selection: Secure your ceremony and reception venues. This is often one of the first steps and can book up quickly, especially for popular destinations.
• Vendor selection: Choose and book vendors such as photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment. Ensure they have experience with destination weddings.
• Accommodations: Arrange accommodations for yourselves and your guests, considering options like room blocks at hotels or rental properties.
• Guest list: Create your guest list and send out "save-the-date" cards to allow guests time to plan their attendance, especially if they need to request time off work or make travel arrangements.
• Travel arrangements: Plan transportation to and from the destination for you and your guests, exploring options like group rates or shuttle services.

9-12 Months in Advance:

• Local details: Research and plan for local specifics, such as marriage licenses, permits, and any cultural or logistical considerations.
• Backup plans: Prepare backup options in case of unexpected weather or other issues.

6-9 Months in Advance:

Send out official invitations: Ensure your guests have plenty of notice and all the necessary details.

Remember, the earlier you start planning your destination wedding, the more options you'll have for venues, vendors, and accommodations. This extended timeline also gives your guests more time to save money and make travel arrangements. However, it's important to find a balance, as planning too far in advance can make it challenging for guests to commit, and you may encounter higher prices or limited vendor availability.

Frequently asked questions