Picking your wedding date can be tricky. But knowing which ones to avoid can make it a lot easier! Check out our recent feature in SHEfinds – we shared with editors wedding dates from which you should steer clear away.

Here’s some more helpful information on which wedding dates to avoid:

WEDDING DATES OF FAMILY + FRIENDS

Make sure to double check whether the date you want is already called for by one of your loved ones. The oversight would create an uncomfortable and awkward situation for everyone – undoubtedly causing a strain on your relationship. The same applies for other functions in your social calendar. If you know your grandparents will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this year with a big bash, make sure you fully understand their plans.

TIMES OF BAD WEATHER

If you have your heart set on a horse ranch, vineyard, or garden, weather should be priority #1. Avoid the seasons or months your venue location is prone to rain, snow, severe winds, monsoons, fires, extreme heat conditions, etc. In Los Angeles, I always recommend the best time for an outdoor wedding is during the months May – September, when it is least likely to rain.

VENDOR AVAILABILITY

If you have your heart set on a certain vendor that you MUST HAVE for your wedding, then check their availability. Certain vendors, like a photographer, can only be at one wedding per day. In contrast, a bake shop can book multiple wedding cake orders per day. You want to book the vendors who can do only one wedding at a time right away. 

RELIGIOUS CALENDAR

Check with family, or the religious officiant marrying you, to confirm if your wedding date is “allowed” on your religious calendar. For example, in the Jewish religion, there are certain dates in the year that are considered “off limits.” During these dates, some of your guests may not be allowed to travel or celebrate. Make sure to pick a wedding date on which all your loved ones will be able to attend.

YOUR WORK SCHEDULE

If you know you have a lot going on in the month of July (e.g., big publishing deadline, your firm’s biggest case, traveling out of state for the annual industry convention, etc.), you’re probably better off not having your wedding in July (or even in June). Wedding planning can be stressful enough without adding to your already busy schedule. Of course, if you’re busy all year round (as many of my professional bride and grooms are), then having a full-service wedding planner will make all the difference.

THE HOLIDAYS

Over the years, I have developed mixed feelings about weddings on holidays. I used to think on holidays guests would already have time off of work and be in a celebratory mood. However, for those same reasons guests may be turned off by the idea. It’s not that your guests want to celebrate you any less on a holiday. Instead, it can make guests feel they are losing their ability to spend the holidays the way they would have wished. The holidays can also be a very extremely busy time for not only yourself but also your family. 

My advice for couples wanting a holiday wedding is to send out save the dates at least 8-9 months in advance. This gives guests the opportunity to plan and commit accordingly. You minimize the risk of imposing on your guests’ holiday or vacation plans.

Keep in mind that during the weekends of Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day the price of flowers (especially roses) skyrockets. Another important note – how crazy are you about the idea of your wedding anniversary being the same day as 4th of July?

 

Etiquette Planning