When selecting a date for your wedding there are several factors to consider. Some may be obvious; others, not so much.
Be sure to think about this carefully so you don’t end up feeling like you're running out of time to plan and/or leave enough time to save so you don't need to take out too much debt (if any).
Its best to give yourself at least six to twelve months to plan your wedding, more if you want a larger function. Make sure you consider the logistics of your wedding date early on so your decisions are thoroughly informed and less stressful.
It may appeal to you to choose a date with some sentimental meaning for you and your partner. This could be an anniversary of the day you met, first kiss, the day you got engaged, etc.
It’s can be better to stagger the wedding date from certain important dates like birthdays and other anniversaries. If they are all knotted together, the celebration of each may leave you feeling stifled and like you can’t give enough attention to each.
However, if you as a couple feel it gives your wedding more meaning to celebrate it on another important date (like lining up the date you started dating, to the same date you got engaged, to the same one you want to get married on) then go for it.
Consider your needs and wants for your wedding and what you can afford to have. While we all have a dream day in mind, sometimes our finances like to bring us back to reality. You don't want to start your married life in a lot of debt.
That means you will need to decide what you have to have and what you can live without. From there you will have to decide how much of your overall expenses you want to save for, pay for closer to the time, or take out debt for.
Be sure to leave yourself ample time to save money to pay for most of your wedding expenses if possible. Learning how to keep track of your wedding expenses is also important leading up to your wedding day.
Having your wedding around local public or school holidays sounds great. It may mean more time off for you, and that more of your intended guests can attend.
However, remember these times may be peak season times, meaning your ideal venue may be booked ages in advance, and the venue prices and of those of all of the suppliers may be much higher than normal.
This is important and requires some deeper thought as it relates to all sorts of things like temperature, humidity, sun, rain, menu, flowers, clothing, décor, etc.
Thinking of all of these individually can be a bit much. So, instead think of selecting your ideal season and maybe 3 of your most important factors (X flower that only blooms in summer, etc.), then slot in the exact date.
If you have selected a date that has sentimental meaning to you, take these factors into consideration with that date in mind – like a backup plan for bad weather.
Weather patterns vary in the different South African provinces. The Cape gets winter rains, Johannesburg has momentous summer storms, and Durban gets extremely humid in Summer.
The most popular months around the country for weddings are March, April, May, and June. This is when the weather is at its most stable.
If you have your heart set on having a particular type of flower at your wedding, remember that some flowers are only available at certain times of the year. You may have to plan around the dates your flowers are available or settle on some alternatives.
Ask your florist for some suggestions as to alternatives.
Remember that your wedding clothing will also depend on the weather at the time of year you choose. Make sure you select the right clothing materials and styles to keep you and the bridal party comfortable in whichever season you choose.
Also bear this in mind when setting your dress code, you don’t want your guests to be uncomfortable either.
Make sure the kind of food you want suits the season, too. A heavy, traditional meal is better suited to winter, and a lighter one to summer. Certain foods may also be subject to seasonal availability.
Check with your caterer to make sure everything you want will be available. If you are having fresh fruits in or on your cake, we recommend doing the same with your baker.
A general note on your catering – keep all of your guests needs in mind when deciding on your menu. Religious, medical, and general dietary requirements are also important factors to consider.
Some of your most important guests may come from far and thus need sufficient time to plan to come to your wedding. Other guests may also need time to save money to attend and get you a nice gift as well.
If your wedding is a destination wedding, pay extra mind to this and consider giving your guest much more time to plan to attend your wedding.
You may also need to work your dates around your suppliers. If your ideal suppliers are booked up around the dates you had in mind, it may be better to chat to them about another date.
Consider your work schedule when booking your wedding dates. If it is normally a busy time for your company it may not be the best time to take off, especially if you plan to go on a honeymoon right away.
If you are at university consider your exam and assignment schedules. This is especially important if you are also working. You do not want to stress about work or university while you are at your wedding or on your honeymoon.
Arranging your wedding date around special offers made by venues, suppliers, travel companies, etc. may help you save money. Just be sure the dates work for you in any other way you may need.
Once you have a set date, Happly will help you on your journey to "I Do". We have tons of tools that include a wedding website, online stationery, a guest list manager, a budget tool, and more!
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