Save The (Week) Date: The Unexpected Benefits And Challenges Of A Weekday Wedding
So, you’ve found the one, and setting a date for your big day is the only missing piece of the puzzle. A weekend wedding date might seem like the obvious choice. But have you ever considered having a weekday wedding?
This option might not be for everyone, but it is definitely something to think about. While there are some cons to hosting a wedding mid-week, there are also plenty of upsides that might really work to your advantage.
Pros Of The Weekday Weekend
First of all, everyone knows that weddings can drain your bank account dry– especially if you have a specific vision for your big day that you aren’t willing to compromise on.
That’s why weekday weekends can help make your ceremony and reception dreams come true, just in a more cost-effective way.
Many venues will offer substantial discounts for bookings made on weekdays. Caterers, photographers, and DJs even tend to offer lower prices during these less busy periods. Plus, some florists might be able to cut you a deal, and these savings can really add up!
Aside from price, it is also much easier to find availability when you are working on a weekday date. Your dream venue may have a months-long or even years-long waitlist for a Saturday or Sunday, but on a Tuesday or Wednesday, there will likely be more flexibility.
Not to mention, you won’t have to go up against the normal weekend competition of other soon-to-be newlyweds looking to save a date.
Finally, weekday weddings tend to be more unique experiences that can really set your day apart. A smaller weekday gathering can allow you to curate a more personal vibe, and the less traditional time slots allow for more creativity when it comes to planning.
Vasil – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people
Cons Of The Weekday Wedding
Of course, there are also drawbacks to hosting a mid-week wedding. The most obvious downside is limitations on guest availability.
Many of your guests may have work obligations and might struggle to take time off. At the same token, guests who have children may have a difficult time attending if they have kiddos who are still in school.
That’s why a weekday wedding may yield more declined invitations than a traditional weekend celebration.
There are also travel concerns since guests may have to split their work schedules around your big day. Flights and hotels could be harder to coordinate as well.
Lastly, these challenges may potentially add more stress to wedding planning. If guests are trying to coordinate their attendance around school pick-up or work obligations, the day may feel rushed.
Time off approval and childcare arrangements may also change at the last minute, so you need to be prepared for any unexpected adjustments in terms of arrival times and overall attendance.
So, when it comes time to decide between having a weekday or weekend wedding, you have to weigh the pros and cons based on your own situation.
For some, the amount of money saved and the potential for added wedding planning creativity might be more than worth the bit of extra coordination stress and a potentially smaller guest list. Other people may prefer to just stick with a traditional weekend wedding.
In the end, it’s your day, and the decision lies with you and your partner. Reflect on what matters most to you and go with your gut.
Regardless of the day you choose, your wedding will be a celebration of love, and that’s what truly counts.
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