When’s the best time of the year to get married?
Choosing the ideal month for your wedding can significantly impact the overall ambiance, experience, and even budget of your special day. With each season offering its unique charm, narrowing down the perfect month might seem daunting. However, fear not! In this guide, we'll break down the key considerations to help you select the best month for your dream wedding.
Abbots Court basking in Autumn sunshine. Photography by Dan Watkiss
January - The Best Month for Couples on a budget :
January, often overlooked in the realm of weddings, holds a unique allure for couples seeking a special and budget-friendly celebration. While it may not be the most popular month for tying the knot, there are numerous benefits to embracing the charm of a January wedding. Let's explore why saying "I do" in January can be a truly magical experience.
Pros of a January Wedding Month:
Cost-Effective Celebrations: With January being a quieter month for weddings, couples can enjoy significant cost savings. Venues and vendors may offer discounted rates or special packages, making it an attractive option for those looking to create their dream wedding without breaking the bank.
Venue Availability: Finding your dream wedding venue can be a challenge during peak wedding seasons. However, in January, you're more likely to secure your ideal venue without the stress of competing with other couples for dates. This means you can choose from a wider range of venues, from charming countryside estates to elegant urban settings.
Post-Holiday Excitement: A January wedding offers a delightful opportunity for friends and family to come together and celebrate after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. It provides a joyful continuation of the festivities, giving everyone something special to anticipate and cherish in the new year.
New Beginnings: Starting the year as a married couple symbolizes new beginnings and shared aspirations. It's a beautiful way to embark on your journey together, setting the tone for a year filled with love, growth, and endless possibilities.
Cons of a January Wedding Month:
Weather Considerations: Admittedly, January weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of gloomy skies and chilly temperatures. However, with thoughtful planning and indoor backup options, you can mitigate any weather-related concerns and create a cozy and intimate atmosphere for your celebration.
Post-Holiday Finances: Some guests may find themselves recovering from holiday expenses, which could impact their ability to travel or contribute financially to your wedding. Providing ample notice and understanding can alleviate any potential financial strain, allowing guests to plan accordingly and join in the festivities without worry.
Our Wedding Pavilion illuminated by the beautiful tones of Winter
February - A month for Honeymooners
February, often overlooked in the wedding calendar, holds its own charm and benefits for couples seeking a unique and memorable celebration. Despite being less popular than peak wedding months, February offers distinct advantages that make it a compelling choice for tying the knot.
Pros of a February Wedding Month:
Festive Atmosphere: February is a month filled with celebrations, including Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, and Pancake Day. Incorporating these festivities into your wedding can add an extra layer of joy and romance to your special day, creating unforgettable memories for you and your guests.
Ideal Honeymoon Opportunities: While February may be chilly in the UK, it's the perfect time to escape to sunny destinations like the Caribbean, the Maldives, Oman, or Cambodia for your honeymoon. By getting married in February, you can seamlessly transition from your wedding celebrations to a romantic getaway, creating lifelong memories in paradise.
Convenient Timing: With a half-term holiday often falling in February, it's an ideal time for midweek weddings, catering to guests who are teachers or families with school-aged children. Weekday weddings not only offer potential cost savings on venue hire but also provide a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere for your celebration.
Budget-Friendly Options: Like January, February is considered a low wedding season, which translates to excellent value for money. Couples can take advantage of discounted wedding packages and cost-effective deals from venues and vendors, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximise their budget.
Cons of a February Wedding Month:
Chilly Weather: February marks the tail end of winter in the UK, with colder temperatures compared to other seasons. However, it's worth noting that February typically experiences less rain than January and enjoys slightly longer daylight hours. If you're open to embracing the cozy ambiance of winter, complete with snug attire and intimate indoor settings, a February wedding can be enchanting.
March - Spring has sprung :
March sees a significant increase in weddings compared to January and February, hosting nearly as many ceremonies as those two months combined. About 4.5% of weddings in 2023 are scheduled for March, making it a popular choice for couples. While it may not boast the scorching temperatures of summer, this spring month offers numerous reasons to consider it as the backdrop for your special day.
Pros of a March Wedding Month:
Embrace the Beauty of Spring: March signifies new beginnings as the onset of spring unfolds. With gardens adorned with daffodils, crocuses, and blossoms, the end of March provides a picturesque setting for any wedding, showcasing the vibrant colors of nature in full bloom.
Enjoy Mild and Sunny Weather: March is ideal for couples who appreciate sunny days without the sweltering heat of summer. Known for its bright and breezy climate, March offers abundant natural light and comfortable temperatures, creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor celebrations.
Affordable Wedding Options: While not as budget-friendly as winter months, March is still considered a low wedding season, offering plenty of opportunities for cost-saving deals, especially on weekday wedding packages. Among spring months, March stands out as the most economical choice for tying the knot.
Cons of a March Wedding Month:
Unpredictable Weather: Despite the sunny days, March is no stranger to rain and occasional snowfall. Considering the variability of weather conditions, hosting an outdoor wedding in March might pose a risk. It's advisable to have contingency plans in place to ensure a seamless celebration regardless of the weather.
Consideration for Religious Observances: March coincides with Lent and the beginning of Ramadan, which may affect some guests' dietary habits or availability. It's essential to be mindful of these religious observances and accommodate guests who may be fasting during daylight hours, ensuring they have ample options to enjoy when they break their fast in the evening.
April - Warmer weddings make a return :
We're aware that April technically falls within the spring season, but it also marks the beginning of British Summer Time, ushering in longer days, brighter evenings, and a gentle rise in temperatures. This transition contributes to the surge in popularity for April weddings, nearly doubling in comparison to March, with approximately 8.7% of weddings in 2023 choosing this radiant and enchanting month.
Pros of an April Wedding Month:
Favourable Pricing: April remains within the low season for many wedding venues, resulting in lower hire prices compared to the peak season, which typically spans from May to September.
Extended Daylight Hours: With the clocks springing forward on the last Sunday of March, April offers longer and brighter days, perfect for couples desiring a twilight wedding and outdoor photography sessions in the evening glow.
School Holidays: April features the first two-week school holiday for many schools over Easter, usually falling within the initial two to three weeks of the month. This timing provides opportunities for guests, particularly those with children, to attend without scheduling conflicts.
Abundance of Blooms: Flower enthusiasts rejoice in April, as many favorite blooms come into season, including anemones, marigolds, freesias, and lily of the valley. Seasonal flowers are not only more affordable but also easier for wedding florists to source, ensuring stunning floral arrangements without the hassle of sourcing out-of-season blooms.
Cons of an April Wedding Month:
Increasing Prices: While still considered off-peak, prices tend to rise in April compared to the preceding months.
Holiday Conflicts: April hosts significant religious observances such as Easter, Ramadan, and Passover, which may result in guests being booked up months or even a year in advance with family gatherings and religious celebrations. However, the Easter weekend does offer a bank holiday, providing some flexibility for attendees to adjust their schedules. Yet, it's worth noting that bank holiday weddings may come with additional costs.
March - perfect for a long weekend wedding at Abbots :
With over 12% of all UK weddings in 2023 set for May, this month officially heralds the beginning of the high wedding season. While wedding season typically entails additional costs, May stands out as the quietest month within this peak period, making it your prime opportunity to secure a favorable deal amidst the busiest five months of the year.
Interestingly, May boasts the most popular wedding date for 2023, with over 2% of all UK weddings scheduled for Saturday, May 27th - surpassing the entire tally for January!
Pros of a May Wedding Month:
Spring into Summer: May, still nestled in spring, marks the onset of rising temperatures. With recent years witnessing notably warmer weather and prolonged daylight hours, May offers couples a summery wedding ambiance without the steep price tag associated with peak summer weddings.
Fresh Start: As the inaugural month of the wedding season, May ensures that attending guests are far from experiencing wedding fatigue. By avoiding the tail end of the busy wedding season, couples can ensure their celebration receives the attention and enthusiasm it deserves.
Double the Celebrations: May uniquely boasts two permanent bank holidays, one at the beginning and one at the end. This arrangement provides ample opportunity for couples to indulge in a three-day wedding extravaganza, with the majority of guests enjoying the festivities without needing to take annual leave.
Cons of a May Wedding Month:
Guest Availability Challenges: Despite the allure of bank holidays, Brits are known to seize any opportunity for a long weekend getaway. Consequently, guest availability may be affected. To mitigate disappointment, prompt RSVPs are essential.
Weather Woes: While May experiences a surge in temperatures, chilly and breezy days are not uncommon. For couples planning outdoor festivities, a contingency plan for inclement weather is imperative. Although May enjoys an average of 192 hours of sunshine, it also sees a comparable average rainfall of 2.8 inches as April.
June - The season is in full swing :
June is poised to host 14% of all weddings in 2023, basking in the sunny allure of this vibrant month. And it's easy to see why. June heralds the onset of summer, officially marking the season's debut. However, it stands alone among summer months, falling entirely outside any school summer holidays.
Pros of a June Wedding Month:
Budget-Friendly Midweek Options: While universities may have commenced their break, primary and secondary schools typically remain in session throughout June. This translates to more affordable midweek venue prices compared to peak holiday periods.
Ideal Timing for Honeymoons: Opting for a June wedding sets the stage for a budget-friendly honeymoon. With the summer holidays driving up travel costs, June offers cheaper deals and a prime opportunity to jet off to European destinations or exotic locales like Zanzibar, Borneo, Tanzania, and the Seychelles, enjoying dry season perks.
Perfect for Outdoor Celebrations: With summer in full swing, June invites couples to explore outdoor wedding concepts and embrace true summer wedding styles. Surprisingly, June experiences less average rainfall than July and August, making it an appealing choice for al fresco festivities. Additionally, while the typical high temperature in June hovers around 18°C, 2022 witnessed record-breaking heat, with temperatures soaring over 40°C.
Cons of a June Wedding Month:
Sporting Events Clash: June marks a bustling period in the sports calendar, potentially leading to scheduling conflicts with major sporting events. Couples should take care to avoid these dates to prevent clashes.
Consideration for School-Aged Guests: While June offers advantages for midweek weddings, the ongoing school term may pose challenges for couples with many school-aged children on the guest list. Parents may find it difficult to attend weddings while their children are still in school, even if the event is child-free.
Eid Celebration: For weddings in 2024, Eid falls squarely in the middle of June. Couples, especially those with Muslim guests, should be mindful of this religious holiday, as celebrations with family and friends may take precedence.
July - The Summer showstopper :
July boasts just over 15% of all summer weddings in 2023, nearly tying with August as the most favored wedding month of the year. Alongside August, July is renowned as the pinnacle of summer, offering balmy temperatures and the quintessential essence of the season.
Pros of a July Wedding Month:
Summer Holiday Advantage: The latter part of July falls within the summer holidays, catering to both child-friendly and child-free wedding plans. With consistently sunny weather and a lower average rainfall compared to August, July presents an optimal choice for those wary of rain on their special day.
Ideal for UK Mini-Moons: July serves as an ideal month for couples planning a UK mini-moon, with warm weather providing ample opportunities for exploration before embarking on a long-haul holiday later in the year. Additionally, it offers the perfect opportunity to align your honeymoon with summer events and festivals, enriching your post-wedding experience.
Prime for Outdoor Celebrations: With outdoor weddings in full swing, July boasts an average temperature one degree warmer than August, enhancing the allure of al fresco celebrations and ensuring a comfortable ambiance for guests.
Cons of a July Wedding Month:
Premium Pricing: As one of the most sought-after months for weddings, particularly on weekends, July comes with a higher price tag compared to less popular months. Despite the added cost, many couples deem it a worthy investment for capturing the ultimate summer wedding ambiance.
Holiday Conflicts: July ranks among the peak months for individuals to embark on their summer vacations. With holidays often booked well in advance, couples may encounter guests who are unable to attend due to holiday clashes, particularly if they've made prior commitments.
August - The Star of the Summer show :
August stands out as the premier month for weddings, boasting over 20,000 ceremonies, constituting just over 15% of all weddings in 2023. It's hailed as the quintessential summer month in the UK, making it the top choice for couples envisioning a summertime celebration. Moreover, with a bank holiday nestled at its conclusion, it's tailor-made for indulging in three-day wedding extravaganzas!
Advantages of Choosing August as Your Wedding Month:
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: August enjoys the distinction of being the sole month covered entirely by national school holidays, rendering it exceptionally family-friendly. This appeals to weddings where children are welcome, as well as those where parents (or even teachers) are among the guests.
Idyllic Weather: Renowned for its radiant sunshine and balmy temperatures akin to June and July, August sets the stage for picturesque outdoor ceremonies, adding a touch of enchantment to the occasion.
Drawbacks of Opting for an August Wedding Month:
Financial Considerations: Let's not sugarcoat it—August weddings can be financially hefty. Saturdays in August, in particular, command top dollar, given their coveted status in the wedding calendar. The soaring demand invariably inflates costs, making it a premium choice for those with flexible budgets.
Scheduling Challenges: Like the latter part of July, August sees many guests juggling holiday plans and summer escapades. Hence, sending out invitations well in advance is imperative to ensure attendance and minimize the risk of disappointment.
September - late Summer sunshine :
As wedding season draws to a close, September emerges as a prime month for tying the knot, boasting ample sunshine and pleasant weather. In recent years, September weddings have surged in popularity, with two of the most sought-after wedding dates of 2021 falling within this month.
In 2023, September solidified its status as a favoured wedding month, claiming the fourth spot by hosting just under 13% of all weddings.
Advantages of Choosing September as Your Wedding Month:
Cost Savings Potential: While September remains part of the peak wedding season (May to September), weddings towards the month's end often come with more budget-friendly price tags compared to early September. Savvy couples might find attractive deals during this time.
Favorable Weather: Despite marking the onset of autumn, September maintains a pleasantly warm climate, characterized by gentle breezes and abundant sunshine. The slightly cooler temperatures offer a refreshing alternative to the heat of summer, creating ideal conditions for outdoor celebrations. Additionally, the softer autumn light enhances the charm of wedding photography, resulting in stunning imagery.
Honeymoon and Venue Savings: With schools resuming regular schedules in September, couples planning weddings during this month can benefit from savings on honeymoon packages and midweek venue rentals. Moreover, historical data suggests a lower likelihood of rainfall compared to August, reducing the risk of weather-related disruptions.
Drawbacks of Opting for a September Wedding Month:
Higher Costs: Despite the potential for late-month discounts, September weddings generally command higher price tags compared to cooler months. Saturdays in September, in particular, are in high demand, driving up venue and service costs.
Religious Considerations: September includes Yom Kippur, a significant holiday in the Jewish faith. Couples and guests should be mindful of potential scheduling conflicts for those observing this sacred day.
Diminishing Daylight: Towards the end of September, daylight hours begin to shorten, posing challenges for couples planning evening outdoor festivities. Those envisioning illuminated al-fresco celebrations may need to adjust their plans accordingly.
Attendance Challenges: With the return of school schedules, parents and educators may find it difficult to attend midweek weddings, particularly at the beginning of the academic year. Securing time off during this period may prove more challenging compared to later in the school term.
October - the season of vivid colours and autumnal tones :
In October, the frequency of weddings dwindles by half compared to September, marking the official conclusion of peak wedding season. In 2023, October is slated to host 6.7% of all weddings. Despite its position outside the bustling wedding months, this picturesque autumnal period holds its own charm...
Advantages of Choosing October for Your Wedding:
Scenic Autumn Splendor: October showcases the peak of autumn's breathtaking beauty, with vibrant foliage painting landscapes in rich hues.
Cost-Effective Options: Wedding expenses tend to be more budget-friendly in October, especially for venue rentals and related costs. Couples can secure early October dates with sunny weather at a fraction of the price compared to peak seasons.
Mild Weather: While temperatures may dip slightly in October, it remains relatively mild, with only a slight increase in rainfall compared to September and August.
Potential for Midweek Savings: With a half-term holiday occurring in October, couples can consider planning midweek weddings, further reducing overall wedding expenditures. It's worth noting that the duration of half terms in October varies by region.
Disadvantages of Opting for an October Wedding:
Weather Considerations: Although the rise in average monthly rainfall is modest, October sees a decline in temperatures, albeit by a few degrees.
Decreased Daylight Hours: October experiences a significant reduction in sunlight hours, with an average decrease of more than 30 hours.
Halloween Influence: The month concludes with Halloween, which may influence wedding plans. Couples not keen on incorporating Halloween themes into their wedding may want to avoid the last weekend of October. Additionally, some guests might be enthusiastic about Halloween celebrations, potentially conflicting with wedding arrangements.
November - Winter wonder begins :
November witnesses fewer weddings compared to October as peak wedding season gradually recedes. Overall, November is expected to host just under 3% of all weddings in 2023, making it an opportune month for couples seeking excellent value for their money.
Advantages of Choosing November for Your Wedding:
Cost-Effective Options: November weddings tend to be more budget-friendly compared to busier and warmer months. Wedding venues often offer low-season wedding packages and discounts for November dates, making it a financially savvy choice.
Off-Peak Season Appeal: November, along with March and April, falls within the low wedding season but avoids the depths of winter. It boasts quieter wedding schedules compared to March and April, presenting couples with the opportunity to secure exceptional prices for their wedding without fully transitioning into winter. This is particularly appealing for autumn enthusiasts planning a wedding on a budget.
Bonfire Night Festivities: Incorporating Bonfire Night celebrations on November 5th can add a spectacular touch to wedding festivities, especially with dazzling fireworks displays.
Disadvantages of Opting for a November Wedding:
Winter-Like Conditions: Towards the end of November, the weather may feel more like winter despite technically being autumn. Few outdoor weddings are likely due to rising rainfall levels, although there's a cozy charm to crisp November days. Hosting a wedding in November provides a chance for a low-season celebration before the hustle and bustle of Christmas.
Religious Observances: Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, spans five days starting from November 1st in 2024. Couples should be mindful of these celebrations to avoid date clashes. Additionally, Jain New Year occurs at the end of November, marking an important religious observance.
Reduced Daylight Hours: November experiences a significant decrease in sunlight hours compared to October, with an average drop from 92 hours to just 58 hours.
December - a sprinkling of Winter magic :
December, despite its festive charm, ranks as one of the least popular wedding months, second only to January. Just 2.5% of weddings in 2023 are slated for December, yet for savvy couples, this low-season choice can unveil a wealth of opportunities. Why not consider a Christmas wedding?
Curious if December is the ideal month for your nuptials? Interestingly, December presents a unique balance of pros and cons. Let's delve into both sides to aid your decision-making.
Advantages of a December Wedding Month:
Festive Atmosphere: December reigns as the ultimate party season, with people in high spirits and eager for festive celebrations. It's an opportune time to host a wedding amidst the holiday cheer.
New Year's Eve Celebration: Ringing in the new year as newlyweds is a thrilling prospect. With the option to legally marry on New Year's Eve, couples can embark on their journey together amid the excitement of a new beginning.
Magical Christmas Themes: For couples enchanted by the magic of Christmas, a themed wedding can be truly enchanting. Whether opting for full immersion or subtle touches, a Christmas-themed celebration exudes warmth and charm.
Convenient Timing: December offers a two-week school holiday, national bank holidays, and widespread business closures between Christmas and New Year. This boosts midweek availability for guests, simplifying attendance logistics.
Chance of Snow: Embrace the possibility of a winter wonderland wedding with the potential for snow adding an extra layer of magic to your special day.
Disadvantages of a December Wedding Month:
Busy Social Calendar: While the festive season fosters merriment, it also fills calendars with numerous commitments. Securing attendance from guests amidst the hustle and bustle of Christmas festivities can pose a challenge.
Financial Strain: December is often synonymous with heightened expenses due to Christmas parties, gift purchases, and socializing. Attending a wedding during this financially burdensome period may deter some guests.
Advanced Notice: Providing ample notice to guests, ideally a year or more, becomes crucial for a December wedding, given the high demand for their time and potential travel arrangements.
Seasonal Illnesses: December coincides with the onset of colds, flu, and other ailments, posing a risk for couples and guests alike. Those prone to illness may want to consider an alternative month to avoid health concerns on their big day.
In conclusion : as we've navigated through the calendar months, each offering its unique blend of advantages and considerations, it's evident that regardless of the chosen month, Abbots Court stands ready to transform your wedding dreams into a stunning reality. Whether it's the romance of a summer ceremony, the charm of an autumnal affair, or the magic of a winter wonderland celebration, our team is dedicated to crafting unforgettable moments tailored to your vision. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, let Abbots Court be your partner in creating the perfect wedding, no matter the season.
*Statistics provided by Hitched & CurrentResults
