What’s Really the Best Season to Have a Wedding?

Deciding when to host your wedding ceremony is a big decision. Specific dates can be more costly than others, so how can you know you’re choosing the best time of year? Think of these points to find the best season to have a wedding, depending on what you want for your big day.

Marrying in the Spring

Spring is a beautiful time of year to get married. Consider a few factors when deciding if it’s the best season for your wedding.

Pro — Many Flowers Are in Bloom

If you’ll use lots of flowers to decorate your venue, spring might be the best season to have a wedding. Many flowers bloom in spring to benefit from bees buzzing around to pollinate everything. You could get traditional blooms like roses or peonies, but you could also select nontraditional spring flowers for your decor, like Grecian windflowers or hyacinths.

Con — It’s a Highly In-Demand Bridal Season

Other couples know spring is when everything is in bloom, so it’s an optimal time for outdoor pictures and floral selections. That means everything from venues to dresses will be more expensive and your wedding date might not be available if you don’t make reservations well in advance.

Pro — March Could Still Save You Money

March could be an excellent compromise for spring weddings on a budget. It’s right on the cusp of winter, but flowers still stretch their petals that month. It’s less in demand than other months as well, so you’ll get more affordable rates from vendors who need clients.

Con — Pollen Limits Outdoor Events

No one wants to attend an outdoor event and spend the whole time sneezing. Pollen could ruin your big day if you host your wedding or reception outside in the spring. It’s important to consider if you or your loved ones are sensitive to seasonal allergies.

Planning a Summer Wedding

Check out the most significant benefits and drawbacks of hosting a summer wedding if you’re thinking about getting married in the warmest months.

Pro — More Outdoor Venues Become an Option

Throwing a beach wedding in the winter would be questionable, but that all changes in the summertime. Sunshine and hot weather open up more outdoor spaces for weddings, even if it’s in your backyard.

Con — Afternoon Thunderstorms Are More Frequent

The atmosphere only needs moisture and rising hot air to create thunderstorms. That means they’ll happen more frequently during the summer in locations with high humidity. Consider that if you’re planning an outdoor evening wedding between June and August.

Pro — The Evenings Are Pleasant

You could always move your reception outside after the sun sets in the summer. The nighttime temperatures will still be comfortable while the stars are out. You could dance outdoors all night long without the weather becoming a problem.

Con — The Sun Sets Much Later

Although late sunsets benefit many couples, others find them disappointing. You may want a grand exit with sparklers or fireworks, but you’ll have to wait much longer for the right lighting conditions in the summer.

Having Your Nuptial in Autumn

Those thinking about marrying in the fall often weigh these pros and cons before finalizing their wedding dates. Think about how they’ll affect your ceremony, if at all.

Pro — The Changing Leaves Provide Beautiful Backdrops

People who get married on a mountainside or near a forest can enjoy the vivid oranges, reds and yellows on distant trees. Your portraits will have a unique look that pops out of the picture.

Con — Sometimes Autumn Brings Snow

The first snowflakes might fall in October, depending on where you want to get married. It may change any outdoor activities you have planned for your wedding, so research your venue’s annual weather patterns to pick the best date.

Pro — You Have Fun Lighting Options

People may feel chilly at an autumn wedding, but you can solve that by combining comfort with lighting. Start a bonfire, turn on electric heaters and place candles around your venue for visual and physical warmth.

Con — Autumn Venues Are Highly Competitive

Fall weddings are popular, so couples will book venues with great views and outdoor settings well before their date. If you’re planning a wedding just a few weeks or months away, you may not get the autumn location you want.

Creating a Winter Wedding

Snow and cozy materials add a magical vibe to winter weddings. You’ll likely encounter these circumstances if you decide to plan your ceremony between November and March.

Pro — You’ll Have More Bridal Clothing Options

People attending winter weddings can wear outfits with long sleeves, heavy fabric and even fuzzy wraps. You won’t feel limited to lightweight gowns and strapless necklines just to stay comfortable.

Con — You’ll Compete With Winter Holidays

There are many holidays during the winter across regions and religions. Some of your guests may be unable to travel for your wedding if it conflicts with a holiday. Caterers could also already have clients booked for parties on your preferred dates.

Pro — Cold Weather Results in Comfort Food

Couples often face pressure only to serve certain foods at their wedding. If you’re not feeling like eating salads and cold plates, take advantage of the freezing outdoor temperatures to eat your favorite comfort foods like mac and cheese, soups and whatever else would warm everyone up. A hot chocolate bar and roasted marshmallows can be delicious dessert options.

Con — Travel Might Be More Difficult

Snow storms and icy roads could make it more difficult or impossible for guests and caterers to reach your venue. It may also prevent you from going on your honeymoon if you plan to leave for your vacation right after your reception.

Pick the Best Wedding Season

There are many things to consider when figuring out the best season to have a wedding. Review these pros and cons to compare them with what you’re dreaming about for your big day. You’ll choose the best date that meets your needs without compromising what you want for your wedding.