It’s Dave with Dave McIntosh Photographics, with reasons to have an off-season wedding. Every summer and fall, wedding bells are sounding, love is in the air, and everyone’s mailbox is flooded with invitations from close family and friends. These warmer months are what we in the industry call “wedding season” when most couples choose to get married. Nicer weather, longer daylight hours, and outdoor venues may seem enticing at first, but there are a few downsides to consider.
The number one problem that I see couples face when planning a summer or fall wedding is competition. Because so many others are choosing the same dates, you’ll compete for the best venues, caterers, photographers, and more. This can easily lead to frustration, and no one wants to feel stressed when planning their big day.
Instead of settling for second-best, try hosting an off-season wedding! While it’s not the favored option, any time between December and March is a wonderful time to say “I Do.” We’ve helped many couples plan their winter wedding and have seen the benefits first-hand.
Discounted Rates
If you choose to marry during the wedding off-season, be prepared to save some money. While not all vendors offer off-season rates, many will be flexible on pricing during their downtime. Venues, in particular, often run special rates during the winter, potentially giving you your dream space at a fraction of the price. However, when approaching the subject with either a venue or vendors, always remember to be courteous rather than demanding discounts of any kind.
Less Competition
Nothing is more disappointing than reaching out to your preferred vendors and receiving the reply that they’re already booked. Hosting an off-season wedding helps to avoid this discouraging obstacle. Fewer couples will get married in the winter, so you will have a higher chance of securing the services you want.
Winter Magic
Of course, there are many things to consider when hosting a winter wedding. But if the weather isn’t a dealbreaker for your big day, off-season weddings can be seriously romantic. Imagine a fresh snowfall outside, a candlelit reception, fresh garlands adorning each table, and all your guests sipping mulled wine into the wee hours of the night. Consider it a major bonus if you choose a wedding date around the holidays for elegant decor options. In fact, your venue may already be dressed up for the holidays, giving you more bang for your design budget.
Potential Honeymoon Discounts
You can also get better honeymoon rates! Depending on your destination, you may travel to a city during its tourist off-season, meaning airplane tickets, hotels, and more will be discounted. Plus winter in Chicago = summer in the southern hemisphere. Get the best of both worlds by planning a winter wonderland wedding and then jet setting to a warm destination south of the equator for your honeymoon.
About Dave McIntosh Photographics
My talent helps you remember each moment fondly. This means not only gorgeous photos and video but also a positive experience. When you look at the photos, you recall how you felt. Capturing special moments is more than picking up a camera. Sometimes is it creating a safe space for you to relax and be yourself. Sometimes it is creating a moment. Once you relax and be in the moment, the magic begins. I will guide you to create memories perfectly suited to you based on over 10 years of photographing weddings.