Choosing the perfect wedding date involves balancing many factors, from personal schedules and guest availability to securing your preferred venue and vendors. Holidays, with their festive spirit, can be appealing options for your special day. Many couples opt for dates like Valentine’s Day, Christmas Eve, or New Year’s Eve. However, before you mark your holiday on the calendar, it’s important to weigh the potential upsides and downsides.
Pros of a Holiday Wedding
1. Time Off Work
Most holidays mean time off work for many people, making it convenient for your guests to attend without using their precious vacation days. This can be especially beneficial if you expect many out-of-town guests.
2. Memorable Anniversary Date
What could be more romantic than celebrating your wedding anniversary on a significant holiday? This not only makes the date easier to remember but can enhance the celebration with an already festive atmosphere each year.
3. Built-in Theme
Holidays come with their own themes and decorations, which can simplify your wedding planning. For example, a Valentine’s Day wedding might feature romantic motifs with red and pink accents, while a Christmas wedding could embrace a winter wonderland theme. Some of our wedding photographers favorite weddings to shoot have had holiday themes.
4. Gathering Everyone Together
Holidays are traditionally times for family and friends to come together, similar to weddings. Hosting your wedding on a holiday can make it a central, celebratory gathering for loved ones, replacing the usual holiday meetup.
Cons of a Holiday Wedding
1: Guests Unavailable
People usually get off work for holidays, which could mean they’re free to attend your wedding or it could mean they already made plans. People like to travel or visit their own families during the holidays. This may mean that guests may not be able to attend. If you plan on a holiday wedding, it’s a good idea to send out invites early and give plenty of warning.
2: It’s Expensive
Have you ever noticed how everything is more expensive during the holidays? That extends to weddings as well. People’s budgets are tighter around holidays, and the added expense of a wedding may be too much. Guests may not be able to afford more expensive flights or hotels. Bridesmaids may not be able to afford a new dress on top of holiday gifts. If you opt for a holiday wedding, give people time to budget and try to put down cheaper gift options on your registry.
3: Sharing Your Special Day
Getting married on a holiday means your anniversary will always coincide with other celebrations. This dual significance can dilute the uniqueness of your special day, as future anniversaries will compete with the broader holiday festivities.
4: Vendor & Venue Availability
Holidays are a busy time for venues and vendors, who may be booked up with other events like corporate parties or holiday celebrations. This can make it harder to secure your first-choice providers and may even incur rush fees or higher rates due to the demand.
Final Thoughts
A holiday wedding can be magical and memorable, offering unique benefits that align with the celebratory nature of your special day. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential drawbacks and plan accordingly to ensure your wedding feels as special and stress-free as possible.
Looking for a Toronto Wedding Photographer?
If you’re planning a holiday wedding in Toronto and need a skilled photographer to capture the magic of your day, look no further than AGI Studio. Our experienced, award-winning wedding photographers specialize in capturing the beauty and emotion of your wedding, no matter the date. Contact us today to learn how we can help make your holiday wedding unforgettable.
