It’s almost too exciting, right? You just got engaged and you can’t wait to get married. Great news: You can find an amazing venue on short notice and, in all likelihood, save some money, too.
The key is a little flexibility. The average time from engagement to wedding day is about a year and a half to two years, according to the experts at Robert Ryan Catering & Design. If your heart is set on a prime-time Saturday date, then you may have to wait a bit. But, if you’re willing to discuss other dates and times, then you could be hitched within a few months.
Photo by by Life of Riley Photography
Read on for top tips from expert wedding planners and get your date in the books sooner, rather than later.
Top Tip: Just Ask!
Lead in with the date you have in mind, and if it’s not available, there may be something near it that’s available. Take it one step at a time, but ask quickly!
Photo by Morby Photography, LLC
Have an Open Mind
You may have to dig a little to find the gems, but it will be worth it. If Saturdays are booked, consider a Friday or a Sunday. If evening is booked, how about an afternoon? If you’re concerned about people taking off from work, then use a long, holiday weekend to your advantage. These options may also be more budget-friendly, too.
Think Outside the Day of the Week
Who says you have to get married on a weekend? The same breathtaking venues, sumptuous catering and top-notch vendors are available during the week, as well. Evening weekday wedding dates are generally plentiful, are easier on the wallet. That means you could say “I do” in the venue of your dreams with an elevated menu just for choosing a non-traditional day of the week.
Photo by Cheyanna DeNicola Photography
Explore all the Seasons
There really isn’t a traditional “wedding season” anymore. Couples are making spring, summer, fall and winter their own. Is your heart set on fall, but your preferred day of the week is booked? There might be a great date in August — and, the pictures will be just as beautiful, and the food and drink just as delicious!
Photo by Two17 Photo & Cinema
Best-Kept Secret: Book Sooner and Save
Paying for your dream wedding is always a consideration, no matter who is footing the bill. The chances of scoring a great deal grow the closer you book to a given date as venues and their preferred vendors look to fill remaining open spots. When you combine keeping an open mind with date and season flexibility to book quickly, you may just find that your ideal wedding has become even more ideal!
The bottom line is that wedding planning should and can be fun, even on a short-turnaround event. Working with a wedding planner will help keep stress levels low. Need more inspiration? Check out these tips from brides who’ve already walked in your shoes. Then, pick up the phone and get the process started. Congrats, again!
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Robert Ryan Catering and Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a five-star rating on WeddingWire and has received WeddingWire’s Couple’s Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in a row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news and recipes from our executive chef.
Featured photo by Josiah & Steph
