Most couples automatically picture an afternoon ceremony followed by an evening reception when planning their wedding. Evening weddings have become the standard, offering plenty of time for preparations and late-night celebrations. However, morning weddings were once the norm and are beginning to make a quiet comeback for couples seeking something different. Morning ceremonies followed by brunch receptions can offer unique advantages, but they also come with some challenges. Our wedding photographers have captured weddings at all hours and are breaking down the pros and cons of hosting a morning wedding.
Pros of a Morning Wedding
Better Rates
Weddings are expensive, and many couples look for creative ways to keep costs down. Morning weddings often come with lower price tags since venues and vendors tend to charge less for early time slots. Because mornings are in lower demand, you might be able to secure your dream venue or favorite photographer at a reduced rate. Keep in mind that some vendors may charge a bit more for early setup times, but overall, morning weddings can offer significant savings.
More Availability
Booking a wedding venue or vendor can be competitive, especially during peak wedding season. Morning weddings open up more availability since most couples are competing for afternoon and evening slots. You may find that popular venues, florists, and caterers have more flexible scheduling options for morning ceremonies. Plus, without the time pressure of a nighttime curfew, you might even have a little more leeway with setup and takedown.
Unique Food Options
One of the most exciting parts of a morning wedding is the chance to offer fun and creative food choices. Instead of a standard plated dinner for your reception meal style, imagine serving a gourmet brunch buffet. Guests will love options like a waffle or pancake station, fresh pastries, omelets, and mimosas. Brunch menus feel fresh and unique, offering a memorable culinary experience that stands out from traditional wedding receptions.
Cons of a Morning Wedding
Less Lively Party Atmosphere
Most people are not ready to dance the morning away. Morning weddings usually feel more relaxed and calm rather than energetic and lively. While some guests may still hit the dance floor, the overall vibe tends to be more subdued compared to evening receptions. If you envision a packed dance floor and late-night partying, a morning wedding may not deliver that energy.
Guests Might Not Be Prepared
Because evening weddings are the norm, guests might not expect an early start. Out-of-town attendees could find it challenging to arrive on time, especially if they planned to travel in the morning. Even local guests may struggle with the early call time, and some might be less than enthusiastic about waking up at dawn to get ready.
Less Time for Prep and Celebration
Brides and grooms often feel like their wedding day flies by, and morning weddings can make the timeline feel even tighter. Hair and makeup will need to start much earlier than usual, leaving less time for relaxing or taking pre-ceremony photos. Additionally, guests are more likely to leave earlier in the day, meaning you may have less time to spend celebrating with them.
Morning weddings are a wonderful choice for couples seeking a unique experience, lower costs, and a more intimate vibe. However, they may not suit everyone’s vision, especially if you want an all-night celebration. Whatever time of day you choose for your wedding, the most important thing is that it reflects your personality and priorities as a couple.
If you are planning a morning wedding, afternoon ceremony, or evening celebration, AGI Studio would love to capture every special moment. Contact us today to learn more about booking one of our experienced Toronto wedding photographers.
