How Do You Choose a Wedding Date?

Choosing a wedding date is one of the first and most important steps in planning your big day. It not only determines your planning timeline but also impacts your venue options, budget, and even guest availability. While some couples have a date in mind from the very beginning, others might feel overwhelmed by all the factors to consider. If you're wondering how to land on the perfect date for your wedding, here's a helpful guide to get you started.

How Do You Choose a Wedding Date? A Step-by-Step Guide

Start by thinking about the season that feels right for your wedding. Do you dream of a spring ceremony with blooming flowers, a summer beach celebration, a cozy fall gathering with colorful foliage, or a romantic winter wedding with candlelight and snow? Each season offers a unique atmosphere and influences the style, venue, and attire of your wedding. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a time of year, it becomes easier to choose a specific month or day.

You may also want to consider any significant dates that hold meaning in your relationship. Some couples choose the anniversary of their first date, engagement, or another special milestone. Others select a lucky number, a holiday weekend, or a date that aligns with family traditions. Picking a sentimental date can make your wedding even more meaningful—and easier to remember in years to come.

Another major factor is venue availability. If you have your heart set on a specific venue, it’s wise to check their open dates early in your planning process. Popular venues tend to book quickly, especially during peak wedding season (typically May through October). You may find yourself choosing between a few open dates, which can help narrow your decision.

Budget plays a big role, too. Saturdays in peak season are usually the most expensive, while weekday or off-season weddings are often more budget-friendly. If you're open to a Friday or Sunday wedding or even a mid-week ceremony you could save a significant amount on your venue and vendors. Winter months or early spring dates may also come with reduced pricing and more availability.

Before finalizing your wedding date, consider any potential conflicts. Major holidays, family obligations, or local events could interfere with your plans or make it harder for guests to attend. Be sure to check school calendars, work schedules, and vacation seasons to avoid unintentional overlaps. It’s also helpful to run your date by close family or wedding party members to make sure they’re available.

How Much Time Do You Need to Plan a Wedding?

Planning a wedding is exciting, emotional, and let’s be honest a little overwhelming at times. One of the first questions newly engaged couples ask is: “How much time do we actually need to plan a wedding?” The truth is, it depends on your vision, budget, guest count, and personal preferences. Some couples plan in a few weeks; others take over a year. There’s no right or wrong answer, just what works best for you.

The Classic Timeline: 12–18 Months: This is the most popular wedding planning timeline. It gives you plenty of time to book your dream venue and vendors, shop for a dress, send save-the-dates, and plan all the details without rushing. With 12 to 18 months, you can take a steady approach spreading out your tasks and expenses over time. This also gives you better chances of securing your top choices for venues, photographers, and other key vendors, especially if you’re getting married in peak wedding season (spring and fall). 

Mid-Length Timeline: 6–9 Months: If you’re flexible with your venue, date, or vendors, planning a wedding in 6 to 9 months is very doable. It requires a bit more focus and faster decision-making, but many couples find this to be the perfect balance of planning time and momentum. You may need to be more flexible with your venue options and guest availability, but you’ll still have time to send invitations, secure a great dress or suit, and create a memorable day.

Short-Term Timeline: 3–6 Months: Planning a wedding in 3 to 6 months is totally possible, especially if you’re going for a smaller, more intimate event. You’ll likely need to streamline the process, prioritize key decisions quickly, and potentially opt for in-stock attire rather than custom orders. The good news? Many venues and vendors offer last-minute availability (and sometimes discounts). Just be prepared to make quick decisions and be a bit more flexible with your plans.

Last-Minute: Less Than 3 Months: Yes, it’s possible to plan a wedding in under 3 months or even a few weeks! Elopements, courthouse weddings, and micro weddings often come together quickly and beautifully. These weddings typically have a smaller guest list and fewer moving parts, which allows for faster planning and more spontaneity. If you go this route, focus on the essentials: legal paperwork, officiant, attire, rings, and a simple celebration. You can always throw a larger party later!

In the end, the best wedding date and timeline is the one that fits your lifestyle, your love story, and your priorities. Historic Acres of Hershey is a beautiful wedding and event venue, perfect for all kinds of gatherings, set amidst the rolling hills in the Pennsylvania countryside. If you are in love, you are welcome here. Contact our team to learn more or to schedule a tour.