Just a Tip... Scheduling Weddings on Holidays

There is no doubt it's very tempting. Holidays are full of warm memories of families, friends and celebrations so it's only natural to contemplate planning your wedding for one of these important dates. Whether you're thinking of a sparkly silver Christmas wedding, a bubbly all out New Years celebration or a 4th of July fete capped off by the ultimate firework display make sure you really think about the date from all angles.

Photo Credit: Emma Dodge Hanson

1. Concern: Make sure you are ready for some guests to respond negatively. I don't just mean checking the "Not Attending" box on your RSVP card, but generally put out that you would schedule this day over a holiday. Many people have their own traditions that they don't like to give up, even for just one year.

Solution: The people that really matter will be there, and if others are upset by the day they can choose not to come! Not really a solution, but this is one of those things you just have to be okay with when you set the date.

2. Concern: Depending on the holiday, where you live, and where your guests live the expense could really add up for your guests. Traditionally flights and hotels are higher around holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.

Solution:  Plan ahead. Send out save-the-dates to your guests close to a year in advance. They will have time to find the best travel deals, and save up if necessary. Work with local hotels, preferably a few with different price points, to set up room blocks well in advance. Your guest will love you for it!

3. Concern: Vendors like holidays too! Just like your guests, vendors have their own families and traditions to attend to. By no means does this mean that all vendors won't be available, but they may be a bit more scarce. For example, I'm happy to work July 4th, Labor Day and the occasional New Year's Eve, but Thanksgiving and Christmas is all family time!

Solution: Again, plan ahead! If there is a particular style of caterer or photographer that you want, start meeting with them early so that you have as many options as possible.


Before you get too discouraged just remember all the fun parts of planning your wedding on a holiday:
-Your anniversary will always be on or around a day off or long weekend!
-Holidays usually come with their own color scheme, special foods and drinks and decor which can make planning super easy (if you choose to use it)!
-You and your guests will already be in a festive mood because of the holiday and even more so because they get to celebrate your marriage!