What time of year is best to get married?
As a wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing beautiful moments of love and commitment all year round. But one question that I often get asked by engaged couples is, "What time of year is best to get married?" And my answer is always the same: it depends on what you want for your wedding day.
Every season has its own unique charm and appeal, and choosing the right time of year can greatly affect the look and feel of your wedding. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of getting married in each season.
Spring Weddings:
Spring is a season of renewal and new beginnings, making it a popular time for weddings. The weather is starting to warm up, and flowers are in bloom, creating a perfect backdrop for outdoor weddings.
One of the biggest advantages of getting married in the spring is the abundance of fresh flowers available for your wedding day. From tulips to cherry blossoms, the options are endless. The mild temperatures also make it an ideal season for outdoor weddings without the worry of extreme heat or cold.
However, spring weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers and wind gusts that can disrupt outdoor ceremonies. It's important to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. As a wedding photographer, I will always have an “option B” should the weather throw a curve ball to the original plan…
Spring weddings can also be a cost-effective option. While still within the peak season, the early spring months of March and April can offer more affordable prices compared to the summer months.
Whilst the weather may still be unpredictable, the beautiful blooms and fresh greenery of spring can make for stunning wedding photos.
Summer Weddings
Summer is the most popular season for weddings, and for good reason.
The warm weather and longer days provide ample opportunities for outdoor weddings, beach ceremonies, and garden receptions.
One of the biggest advantages of a summer wedding is the abundance of natural light, making it easier to capture beautiful photos. The warm temperatures also mean that guests can enjoy outdoor activities and socialize outside, creating a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
From a photography point of view, summer weddings can present a number of challenges.
Strong sunlight can present wedding photographers with exposure considerations. Whilst you could be forgiven for thinking that lovely sunlight is a photographer's dream, midday sunshine causes harsh shadows, particularly on the guests faces. This creates problems for your photographer to overcome. The way to overcome this is to find an area of shade to position your couples and guests, by doing so the light will be softer and much more appealing to take photographs within.
Another factor is the summer heat. If excessive it can be a challenge, particularly for outdoor weddings. It's important to provide shade and plenty of water (alcohol !!) for guests to stay comfortable. Summer is also peak wedding season, which means that venues and vendors may be more expensive and harder to book.
Autumn Weddings:
Fall is a season of changing colors and cooler temperatures, making it a beautiful time of year for a wedding. The changing foliage provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor weddings, and the cooler temperatures make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities without overheating.
One of the biggest advantages of getting married in the fall is the availability of seasonal produce and decorations. Pumpkins, apples, and autumn leaves can be incorporated into your wedding décor and menu, creating a cozy and rustic vibe.
However, fall weather can also be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers and chilly temperatures. It's important to have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
With the shorter days and it becoming darker earlier, the opportunities for outdoor photography in natural light become limited - more so if the ceremony commences later in the afternoon.
With the ability to mix artificial lights (i.e. speedlights or camera flashes) and the remaining ambient light, it is possible to extend those precious few moments of daylight.
If it’s completely dark then it is still possible to have some cool shots outside, so don’t despair !!
Winter Weddings:
Winter weddings are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their cozy and romantic atmosphere. The holiday season provides a perfect backdrop for winter weddings, with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
One of the biggest advantages of getting married in the winter is the availability of indoor venues, which can provide warmth and shelter from the cold. The cooler temperatures also provide the perfect opportunity to wear a stunning bridal cape or faux fur shawl.
Winter weddings can be particularly cost-effective. With fewer couples getting married during this time, venues and vendors may offer lower prices or special discounts. Additionally, winter weddings can have a unique and magical atmosphere, with the possibility of a dusting of snow, twinkling lights, and roaring fires.
January is typically the cheapest month to get married in the UK. According to a survey by wedding website Bridebook, the average cost of a wedding in January is £9,493, compared to £17,913 in August. This is a significant difference, and for couples looking to save money, January could be the perfect time to tie the knot.
Another benefit of a winter wedding is the availability of venues. During the peak summer months, popular venues can be booked up years in advance. However, during the off-season, couples have a greater chance of securing their preferred location. Additionally, venues may offer reduced rates for midweek weddings or last-minute bookings.
Of course, getting married in the winter does have its challenges. The weather can be unpredictable, and couples should be prepared for cold and potentially wet conditions. However, with the right planning, a winter wedding can be a memorable and magical experience.
However, winter weather can be challenging, particularly if you're planning an outdoor wedding. Snow and ice can make travel and logistics more difficult, and shorter days can make it harder to capture natural light for photos.
Weekday Weddings
Additionally, getting married on a weekday can be a great way to save money. Saturday weddings are the most popular, and as a result, tend to be the most expensive. Choosing a midweek date can allow couples to secure their preferred venue and vendors at a lower cost.
However, it’s important to consider the practicalities of a midweek wedding.
Guests may need to take time off work, and travel and accommodation costs could be higher if the wedding is not on a weekend. Couples should weigh up the potential savings against the inconvenience for their guests.
One option for couples who want to save money without sacrificing the summer sunshine is to get married in the shoulder season. May and September are considered shoulder months, and while still within the peak season, can offer more affordable prices compared to the peak summer months of June, July, and August.
The weather during the shoulder season is typically milder than the winter months, but can still be unpredictable. However, with careful planning, couples can take advantage of the lower prices while still enjoying the benefits of a summer wedding.
Another factor to consider when choosing the cheapest time of year to get married is the day of the week. Saturdays are the most popular day for weddings, but also the most expensive. Friday and Sunday weddings can be more cost-effective, with venues and vendors offering lower prices for midweek weddings.
However, couples should consider the practicalities of a non-Saturday wedding. Guests may need to take time off work, and travel and accommodation costs could be higher if the wedding is not on a weekend. Additionally, a Sunday wedding may mean guests have to leave early.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the best time of year to get married is the one that works best for you and your partner. Each season has its own unique charm and challenges, and it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
As a wedding photographer, my job is to capture your love and commitment in the most beautiful way possible, no matter what season you choose to get married in. Whether it's a springtime garden wedding or a cozy winter ceremony, I'm here to capture every special moment of your big day.
