How Setting the Date for Your Wedding Can Save You Money

Setting the date for your wedding is probably of the most important decisions you'll make, even more important than where you'll have the event and what dress you'll wear. A lot rides on what date you pick for your wedding, not the least of which is how much money you can save if you're able to set the date out at least a year, and if you can break from the traditional Saturday late afternoon event.

The Day of the Week
Traditionally, couples get married on a Saturday. It's the most convenient day of the week for people who work full time, people still in school, and families who have to travel to the destination.

setting-the-date But if you're looking to save a good bit of cash and your family, the wedding party and most of your guests are accommodating, you may want to consider setting the date for a Thursday or Friday evening instead. And if you're not especially religious and most of your guests wouldn't mind, you may even be able to book the date for a Sunday afternoon.

If you do some research, make some calls or visit some websites, you may find that there are many more available dates on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and you may save even more by having your wedding on one of these less traditional days. You may even be able get a discount from some reception locations that offer off-peak rates. If they don't advertise that fact, it doesn't hurt to check.

Setting the date for a day other than a Saturday may also save you money with other wedding vendors like the caterer, DJ or photographer if they also offer discounted rate for a weekday or Sunday afternoon wedding as well. And again, it doesn't hurt to ask for a discount if you book the date for an off-peak day.

The Time of Day
Probably one the best ways to save on your wedding when it comes to setting the date is to consider a Sunday afternoon event and opt for small luncheon sandwiches, snacks and desserts instead of a full course meal or a hot buffet. Check with some local hotels and banquet halls that have outdoor settings or quaint banquet halls and you may be able to negotiate a discount for a Sunday afternoon wedding and reception.

cash The Time of Year
The time of the year can also have an affect on your budget. Spring and summer months are the most popular, as you've seen with local and national bridal fairs and shows, which are mostly held in January and February each year in preparation for the busy spring and summer wedding season.

But why not consider setting the date for a time between October and March instead? And again, since this is an off-season time of year for a wedding, you may be able to negotiate discounts with your vendors.

And if you combine and off-season wedding with an off-peak weekday or Sunday date, you could really save some money in the process!

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