Picking a Wedding Date

The first thing people are going to ask you when you get engaged: “Let’s see the ring!” The second? “When’s the wedding date?!”

I mean goodness, you JUST got engaged and you already have to think about next steps. It can seem a little overwhelming and a lot happening at once. Don’t worry, we have some go-to tips to help you select your perfect day.

Things you should consider when selecting a wedding date:

• Determine your budget: Money can be a large factor to your wedding date options. Certain venues have fees depending on the day of the week, time of the month and year. Having those financial guidelines can help direct your decisions. If you have a lower budget, an off-season wedding may provide you the best bang for your buck. This time is around November to March. Each area/city off-season varies, so do your research.
• Think about the season and weather: Talk through what time of year would be ideal for your wedding with your partner. Big fans of the changing colors? Fall might provide a good range of dates to choose from. Know Grandma can’t handle an outdoor wedding in the middle of June? A late spring or early fall wedding might be best. Consider the weather as well. Your family and friends, as much as they love you, don’t want to sit in the rain during your outdoor wedding in the middle of April.
• Consider schedules: While you and your partner’s schedules should be a priority, take some time to think about the loved ones in your life as well. If you dad has a huge retirement party planned in August, it might not be a good idea to plan your wedding during the same month. Not only will this help with your sanity, but helps family and friends not have to choose between one event or the other.
• Select a few dates that work best: You might have a top choice, but have a few backup options just in case. Your dream venue may be booked or your favorite wedding photographer may be unavailable. This is also the time for compromise, you and your partner might have a few different dates in mind. Allow for some wiggle room.
• Contact vendors right away: Select your top vendors. Contact them first. Start with the venue and going from there. Think about what factors matter most to you and your partner during this phase of planning. If you have to choose between a photographer and wedding cake, but that cake from your favorite bakery is a MUST, go for the cake. With your vendor list, break the name down by favorites and top alternatives. Fingers crossed all the stars align and you get your top choice with all your vendors, but it’s better to be prepared.

At the end of the day, determine what matters most. This will help drive your decisions!

Something you can go ahead and cross off your list? Your wedding stationery! You can view my portfolio and past couples through my website here. And congratulations! Sweet things are in store for you!