Apart from the engagement itself and once you have set the budget, the venue selection is likely one of the biggest decisions you will make for your wedding. By locking down a location, you are also deciding on an exact date and season to host your nuptials; this marks a major milestone in planning your special day.
When deciding on the timing of your wedding vows, it is important to remember that every choice has its pros and cons. Although you may be eager to get married during a particular month, take time to weigh any potential issues before signing off on anything. With due diligence, you can ensure your special day goes as smoothly as possible.
To help you make an informed decision when selecting the right season for your wedding, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of pros and cons associated with each. There is no one “correct” time to get married, as the decision depends on many factors. However, this article discusses some of the pros and cons of getting married in summer or winter. We have outlined the advantages and disadvantages of each season to help you decide whether a winter or summer wedding is right for you. No matter what time of year it is, a wedding should be a beautiful, memorable occasion.
Summer Wedding Pros
Blossoming Bouquets – From Lilies to Roses
Summer weddings usually offer couples a wide variety of flowers to choose from for their special day. With the warm weather, most plants are in full bloom and thus make the perfect bouquets and centrepieces.
With so many flowers in season during summer, your wedding florals will be more cost-effective than ever before. Even better, you won’t have to worry about being limited on choices when selecting which blooms to use. Enjoy this flexibility as it allows for a perfect wedding day look without breaking the bank.
Refreshingly Cool Evenings
A summer night is an ideal time to celebrate – the day’s heat has dissipated, and a pleasant warmth remains. You and your guests won’t be subject to the oppressive sun, but you’ll still get to experience some of that classic summertime atmosphere. It’s truly the perfect mix of cool relief with just enough residual heat for ultimate comfort.
More Time
With the long summer days, you have even more time to start the Chuppah and reception from 3PM, really utilising the full day. Moreover, if a late afternoon wedding is what you desire, then daylight will linger until near 9:00 in some areas. This offers tremendous flexibility for couples looking to throw an unforgettable celebration that’s tailored just right for them.
Less Chance of Rain
It’s no secret that rain brings a wet, soggy mess to any event. Luckily, getting married in the summertime will give you less of a chance to worry about unexpected precipitation. Even if it does rain on your special day, the heat will help dry up any puddles or mud quickly.
For couples dreaming of a romantic outdoor ceremony, June, July, and August are typically the most suitable months – boasting lower-than-average chances of rainfall.
Out Door Wedding
The additional pro of a summer wedding is the opportunity to take advantage of some truly beautiful outdoor locations. From beaches to gardens, parks to waterfronts, there are so many amazing landscapes in which you and your guests can enjoy your day. Plus, many outdoor venues offer discounts and promotions during the summer months. This will save a bit of money while also making your wedding much more special.
Summer Wedding Cons
Unbearable Heat
With the unbearable summer temperatures, having an outdoor wedding can be stuffy and uncomfortable for you and your guests. And let’s face it- no one wants to sweat profusely during their big day or have that captured in photos. To ensure your special moment is as enjoyable as possible, consider alternative solutions, such as holding the event indoors or scheduling it later in the evening when temperatures tend to cool off.
Glaring Lighting
For a summer wedding, the sun’s intense rays can make your special day’s photos wash out. To ensure that your memories are captured in stunning clarity, plan to take photographs at dusk when the light is softer and more flattering.
Bugs Factor
As the summer months roll in, so do the hordes of mosquitoes ready to disrupt your outdoor wedding. To ensure none of your guests become their target, provide bug spray or a similar option at the ceremony’s entrance for everyone to use.
Less Availability for Vendors
As summer is a highly sought-after period for weddings, you may need to be prepared if planning on getting married during this season. It’s important to remember that vendors often book up quickly. Even as many as twelve months ahead of time. So it is best to start searching early in order to ensure the availability of the services and providers desired for your special day.
Less Attendance
As most people plan their summer holidays, many people you invite will likely be unable to attend your event during those months due to prior plans. This is especially true for out-of-towners who may find the cost of travel too high. So if a good turnout is important to you, you might want to consider choosing another seasonal option.
Winter Wedding Pros
Built-in decor
Choosing a wedding date during the winter and holiday season could be advantageous for decorations. Many venues are already adorned with lovely foliage, sparkling lanterns, candles and fairy lights – which can save you both time and money. This same concept can be applied to your reception venue, as well.
Perfect Time for Signature drinks
Winter weddings might be chilly, but with exhilarating signature drinks and beverages that will heat up your guest list. Celebrate the season by serving mulled wine, hot-buttered rum or spiced apple cider. Show your guests you care with a warm cocoa bar highlighting customized mugs as favours, peppermint sticks for stirring and mini doughnuts to dip in their cup of heaven.
So many dress choices
From tulle skirts to velvet gowns and swoony capes, winter weddings give you an almost unlimited array of options when it comes to selecting the perfect dress. Whether you choose a classic look or want to wow your guests with something unexpected, winter is a great time for getting creative with your bridal look.
Hair and makeup
Say goodbye to frizzy hair and melting makeup when you tie the knot in winter. Investing in your dream wedding day look will be much more rewarding without worrying about sweat dripping down your face or strands sticking to it.
More availability
If you are searching for a venue to host your special day, the winter months may be a perfect time. Not only is there more availability than in spring, summer and fall, but due to fewer weddings during this period, venues might be able to offer extra services like earlier set-up or extended break-down times that they cannot accommodate when their bookings are full. Your dream wedding could become an even better reality with these added benefits.
Winter Wedding Cons
Weather factor
Winter weather is fickle and can potentially cause havoc on travel plans or ruin a special occasion. If you’re expecting guests to arrive from outside the area, bear in mind that if storms roll through, some chairs might be left empty, with fewer feet dancing on your dance floor.
Less Time
As the sun sets earlier than usual in some parts of the country, it can be dark as early as 4:30 pm. Hence, when you plan your wedding start time, make sure to keep this in mind and don’t forget to consult with your photographer about benefiting from what is famously known as “the golden hour”. This beautiful period offers glorious light for outdoor photos (weather permitting) that are ideal for capturing memorable moments at any wedding ceremony.
Less florals Choice
Depending on where you live, some flowers may not be available during the winter months due to seasonality. This means that brides and grooms have less variety in floral choices. If you have an exact vision of your wedding day aesthetic, you must talk with a florist about their availability and options.
Costly travel and accommodations
Due to high demand, flights and hotels can be more expensive during the peak winter season, which makes it difficult for guests who live far away. That being said, couples should consider providing a discounted booking code or hotel block when possible to help reduce costs for out-of-towners.
Summing Up
There are many pros and cons to consider when planning a summer or a winter wedding. Taking the time to weigh all of your options will help ensure that you make the best possible decision for your special day. With proper wedding planning, you can create an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.
