Choosing your Wedding Date
As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your wedding, one of the first and most crucial decisions you'll make is choosing the date of your wedding! As a wedding photographer, I've been able to understand the significance of seasonal timing when it comes to capturing your special day. In this blog, let's explore a few key factors to consider when determining when to plan your wedding.Choosing the season:
The season you choose can have an impact on the weather conditions during your wedding day. Each season offers unique aesthetics and lighting conditions. Spring & Fall is known for cool-warm temperature and an earlier sunset, meaning you will have a "nicer" quality of light for your photos & videos while also creating an imitate reception setting with the sunsetting earlier in the day. Summer brings warm-hot temperatures, bright and vibrant colours with long evenings creating an inviting feeling as the evening formalities unravel. Winter offers a cold-cool temperature, snow-covered backdrop (location dependant) and earlier sunsets creating that stunning golden hour look into the late afternoon.Booking Timeline:
Once you've settled on the season of your wedding, aim to choose a specific date as early as possible, this can also be determined by your venue's availability. Popular wedding dates and venues can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons which is normally along the summer season (September-April). Having a confirmed date will allow you to move forward with other essential vendors. Here is a "rough" timeline of your wedding journey to help narrow in your wedding date:12 Months Before: Secure Venue
Venues often get booked well in advance, especially if you have a specific venue in mind. Once your date is set, prioritise securing your dream venue as soon as possible. This sets the tone for the rest of your planning journey and ensures you have the perfect setting for your big day.
9 Months Before: Book Key Vendors
After securing your venue, focus on booking your key vendors such as your wedding photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, etc. These vendors often have limited availability the closer the “wedding season” starts, so booking them early ensures you get your preferred vendors.
6 Months Before: Send Save-the-Dates:
With your date, venue, and key vendors secured, it's time to notify your guests. Send out save-the-dates to give them ample time to plan and make arrangements to attend and celebrate your wedding.
3 Months Before: Finalise Details:
As the big day approaches, finalise details with your key vendors, including your wedding photographer and. videographer. Discuss specific shot preferences, timelines, and any unique elements you want to capture on camera.
1 Months Before: Confirm and Review:
Confirm all details with your vendors, review timelines, and ensure everyone is on the same page. This is also a great time for a final consultation with your wedding photographer to discuss any last-minute adjustments or special requests for your big day.
Choosing the right date for your wedding involves a careful balance of personal preferences, logistical considerations and vendor availability. By planning ahead and securing your key vendors in a timely manner, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding day, Here's to the beginning of your beautiful and exciting planning journey!