When should the wedding be?

Now you’re engaged, it’s time to start thinking about setting a date for the big day...

Date essentials

Remember, the earlier you book, the more chance you have of getting the day you want. Once you have a date in mind, you have to find out if it's going to be possible.

There are a few things to consider.

• will the vicar/celebrant marry you on that day?
• is your ideal venue available on that day?
• have you left yourself enough time to plan and prepare everything?
• can the important people attend: parents, bridesmaids, best man, best friends and family?
• are there key guests coming from abroad? If so, is this date possible for them?
• is this an expensive time to hire venues/caterers etc (see setting out to save money)?
• can you both get the time off work for a honeymoon?
• will the weather be a problem at this time of year?
• if your wedding day is not on a weekend, can guests get time off work for it?
• (mostly for grooms) does the wedding day coincide with a cup final/ other important sporting event/ interfere with another mate's stag do?
• (just for the brides) Does the wedding date coincide with your period?

Seasonal savings

If you are looking to cut costs on your wedding -- and let's face it, who isn't? -- then go for an out of season date.

The weather is never predictable in the UK, so why not go for October, November, January or March? These months will often mean cheaper hire charges, less hassle with (and cheaper) accommodation and if you go for seasonal flowers and menus, you can reduce costs all round.

If you are getting married abroad, then out of season is sensible. Popular beach wedding venues are often unbearably hot in August anyway and think how much more your wedding guests will appreciate being out of the country, out of season! Not to mention the savings you'll make on flights and hotels...

Midweek weddings are another way to cut costs. Sometimes caterers and venues are cheaper mid-week, or you can strike a deal. Don't forget though, this may shorten your guest list, as invitees may need to take two or more days off work to fit in with you.

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