Choosing Your Wedding Date

Choosing the best date for you wedding can be a real challenge for many couples.  There are many factors to consider, and there are always some “unknowns” in play.   In this article, Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers invites you to consider the following questions before you choose your wedding date.

What are the most popular months?
June, September, and October are the most popular months to get married as the weather tends to be the most pleasant.  Because they are the most popular, the costs associated with a wedding tend to be the highest when you choose a date during one of these months

Are there benefits to choosing an off-season date?
It could save you a lot of money if you do NOT choose one of the most popular months.  However, you’ll likely to have to make comprises in some areas. Your favorite flower, for one example, may not be in season.  Weather (rain or snow) may be more likely.  And wedding caterers may be out of certain food items, or charge you more for them.

What about weddings with a holiday-theme?
Weddings on – or around – a holiday can go either way.   For one, they have the potential to cost more (price roses during a Valentine-theme wedding for one example).  Some guests may be upset that your wedding interferes with their plans for the holidays.  The holiday could also unintentionally trump the importance of your big day if it’s not done correctly.

On the other hand, many holiday themed weddings are absolutely beautiful.  It could also help to increase attendance rates as many people may already have off of work.

Are there any days that are particularly special for the couple?
Some couples try to find a date that is on a day that hold special significance for them.  Perhaps their first date, the date the wedding proposal occurred, or on the anniversary of parent’s (or grandparent’s) wedding date. Couples who are a part of certain culture or religion may also observe practices that help them to choose the best day for their wedding.

What’s the weather going to be like?
This one is a biggie and, of course, can’t be accurately predicted far in advance.  Poor weather has the potential to turn things into a nightmare, stress out the wedding party, and make most of your guests feel miserable.  Contingency plans are essential and it’s extremely important that you budget for those contingency plans.  For example, buy some umbrellas if there’s even the slightest chance of rain!

How much time do you need to plan?
There’s no one right answer here.  Some couples take a few weeks and are able to have beautiful weddings.  Others need months to do the same.  In short, anything is technically possible, but there are some factors you should consider.  First, know that rush jobs tend to cost more and vendors will charge you more.   Second, a rushed wedding typically means less guests.  Too many people can’t get off work quickly, so if you’re doing a rushed job make sure the must-have attendees said “yes” before you announce the date to everyone.  Also keep in mind that custom-made items (i.e. the wedding dress!) typically take at least a year.  Finally, you need to have your Schwanke Kasten Jewelers wedding bands for the wedding.  Be sure you share your intended wedding date with one of our Schwanke Kasten professionals to be sure the wedding rings will be ready on time.