How to achieve holiday holy matrimony success!
Obviously, we’re thankful that Columbus discovered America because, well, we live here. That goes without saying. On this particular Friday, though, we’re equally enamored with him for giving us a much needed three day weekend (well, kinda…we’ve got some bridal and bridesmaids appointments on the books, but that’s fun stuff!). On the verge of this long weekend, we got to thinking about holiday weekend weddings. What do you think of them? We love them, but they do come with some extra considerations. If a three day weekend wedding is something you’re thinking about, here’s what you need to know:
1) Be prepared to get on the ball right away – People tend to make plans further in advance for a holiday weekend, so you’ll need to get your save the dates out ASAP to in order to catch people before they’ve made commitments that they can’t change. In addition, travel and hotels are likely to book more quickly for a holiday weekend, so it’s advised to give your guests ample time to secure their spots. Even if you do get going early, though, you still need to be prepared for the possibility of a smaller wedding. Holiday weekends can be somewhat of a fixed point for people (perhaps with traditions or other obligations that they are unwilling or unable to adjust), and you may get more declines than you would on an average weekend.
This wedding took their Labor Day theme to a whole new, adorable level! (Photo credit to Ashley Whitlow Photograhy; Photo found on loveandlavender.com)
2) Consider the cost – While a holiday weekend does allow you to more easily have your wedding on a Sunday, beware. Having your wedding on a “normal” Sunday typically means savings; yay! However, vendors tend to look at the Sunday of a holiday weekend the same as a typical Saturday, so the savings might not be quite as much as you’d think. In addition, remember the additional cost for your guests. Travel and accommodations will likely be more expensive than normal, so don’t be surprised if that affects their gift budget for you. Book your hotel blocks as soon as you set a date to try to get them the best deal possible!
3) Run last minute errands, well, NOT at the last minute – While on a typical weekend, you’ll have plenty of store options for any last minute things you might forget, on a holiday weekend many stores will be closed. Sit down with your fiancé the week before and go through the entire wedding day with a fine tooth comb, to try and anticipate any needs/purchases before the holiday weekend hits.
These metallic gourds and cute cornucopia are perfect for a Columbus Day wedding! (found on Better Homes and Garden’s website)
Those are the big things to remember, but it’s not all “disadvantages”! There are TONS of amazing things about having a holiday weekend wedding! You’ll always have a special, long weekend (i.e. days off) close to your anniversary to celebrate. Plus, the weekend of the wedding you’ll have an extra day to spend with friends and family who are in town. And don’t forget to use the holiday to your advantage! Have it be the centerpiece of your wedding theme and you’re sure to have details and touches that your guests will always remember 🙂