How to choose your wedding date (when it’s not just up to you)
Choosing a wedding date sounds simple — until you realise it’s more like a puzzle. Between availability, weather, work schedules, school holidays, budget, and family logistics, most couples quickly find they don’t have a totally free hand.
This guide will help you make a strategic decision — even when the final date isn’t entirely yours to dictate.
Start with the season
You don’t need an exact date to begin — just decide what kind of atmosphere feels right.
Spring: nature comes to life, longer days, soft florals, unpredictable weather
Summer: best for outdoor celebrations, but venues book quickly and are more expensive
Autumn: warm light, rich tones, slightly off the radar
Winter: cosy and romantic, picture candle light and crackling fires, with shorter daylight hours for photos
Check your key people first
Think about the people you really want there — your closest friends, family, and anyone who’s essential to your day. Check their general availability before getting too attached to any date.
This is especially important if:
They live abroad
They follow school or academic calendars
They have health or travel limitations
You’re planning a weekday or off-peak wedding
If there’s a supplier you’ve been dreaming of working with — like an incredible band, florist, or makeup artist — check their availability before you lock in your date.
Scan for conflicts with work, school, or big events
Do a quick sense-check for:
Bank holidays or long weekends
School breaks (great for some, expensive for others)
Major local events (festivals, matches, concerts)
Busy periods at work for you or close family
Accommodation costs can spike during festivals and holiday weekends — check if your venue blocks out rooms in advance.
Think about how it impacts your budget
The date you choose will affect your costs more than you think:
Saturday in summer = peak pricing
Weekdays or Sundays = often more affordable
Off-season (November, January–March) = better deals and more availability
If your dream venue is out of reach for a Saturday, ask about Fridays or even Thursdays.
Planning a short engagement? Flexibility is key
If you’re hoping to marry within 6–12 months, expect to:
Be open to weekday or off-peak dates
Prioritise availability over exact season
Act quickly once you find a good match
Longer engagements give more options — but popular suppliers still book fast, so don’t wait too long.
Choose a date that works for you
Forget trends or pressure. Ask yourselves:
Do we want time to enjoy the engagement, or are we ready to get married soon?
Do we want a slower planning journey or a quick celebration?
Does a sentimental date matter, or is practicality the priority?
There’s no perfect date. Just one that fits your life.
You’re not behind
It’s easy to feel like you’re behind if you haven’t set a date right after getting engaged — especially when everyone starts asking. But you don’t need to rush.
Take your time. Your date will shape your whole planning journey, and it’s worth getting right.
Final thought
Choosing your wedding date isn’t just about picking a pretty number. It’s about balancing what matters to you — and working around what you can’t control.
💬 Related: How to Narrow Down the Right Wedding Venue (Without Overwhelm)
📥 Download: Free Wedding Budget Checklist – understand what affects your venue and supplier options