Psst: want to know a secret?
There’s no such thing as the ‘ideal’ wedding season.
Choosing the right month is about craftingyourpicture-perfect day, not going along with the crowd.
Your ‘I do’ deserves the dreamiest backdrop, which looks a little different for everyone.
So read on for heaps of inspiration and tips on everything from unpredictable weather to venue availability.
In this article...
- Most Popular Months for a Wedding in the US
- The Wedding Season Calendar
- Spring Wedding Bliss
- Sizzling Summer Weddings
- Falling in Love with Autumn Weddings
- Winter Wonderland Weddings
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Month
- Cultural Variations
- The bottom line
Most Popular Months for a Wedding in the US
May:Springing into action with a "Hold my bouquet!" May is all about fresh flowers, new beginnings, and beautifully mild weather.
June: Sunshine, flowers in full bloom, and let’s not forget those PTO-friendly summer vacation vibes. Beach wedding, anyone?
August: Sun-kissed beaches and lapping waves. August is for lovers who aren't afraid of a little heat. After all, marriages that start hot stay hot!
September:Summer’s sophisticated older sibling. Think golden leaves, cooler temps, and rustic chic.
October:Allure, charm, and just the right amount of atmosphere. October is perfect for alternative couples who like to live on the spookier side of life,
The Wedding Season Calendar
From the chilly North to the Sultry South, wedding seasons vary wildly depending on which part of the world you call home.
North of North America (Northern USA & Canada)
Duration:Mainly June to October.
Holiday engagements tend to lead to summer and fall weddings, and all that planning and preparation is the perfect escape from cabin fever during the north’s extreme winter weather.
Think cozy barn weddings, jaw-dropping fall foliage backdrops, and apple cider toasts.
The Southern Belles (Southern USA)
Duration:March to June, and then a little sprinkle in the fall.
With its sweet tea and mouthwatering bourbons, the South has an aversion to sweltering summer nuptials. Instead, they go for the pleasantly warm springs and mild falls.
Imagine magnolia blossoms, lace flourishes, and perhaps a nod to Mardi Gras in some areas!
Tropic Like It’s Hot (Caribbean & Parts of Latin America)
Duration:Mid-November to April.
It’s not just the rainy season people in these parts are looking to avoid, but the hordes of tourists.
The best time to hit the beach to say ‘I do’ is when it’s peacefully quiet and the worst heat is over.
European Escapades (Western Europe)
Duration:May to September.
Why?European summer weddings are magic, from Italy’s sun-drenched vineyards to England’s rambling gardens.
Think rich traditions and the occasional midsummer night's dream.
Remember, no matter where you pick, It’s not just about the date but the journey that brought you together.
Spring Wedding Bliss
Spring weddings are all about blooming flowers, fresh air, and the best backdrop of all: Mother Nature.
And who could forget that soft, ethereal light? This time of year is truly a photographer's dream!
But, of course, every rose has its thorn, and in spring’s case, it’s the unpredictability of the weather.
One moment, sunlit romance, and the next, a surprise shower.
But hey, what’s life without a little risk? You may even see a rainbow!
Plus, umbrellas make a great photo prop.
Silver and rose gold jewelry take centerstage at this time of year.
Sizzling Summer Weddings
Bright skies, balmy nights, and no need to pack a sensible jacket.
No wonder many couples are drawn to this season like moths to a flame!
At the height of summer, the great outdoors calls - and for the adventurous at heart, there’s nothing like a destination wedding.
Love will certainly be in the hot, humid air, whether it’s a Mediterranean island or a tropical paradise.
Keep your guests cool with hydration stations, sunscreen, and hand fan favors.
Set off your golden summer tan with a golden ring.
Falling in Love with Autumn Weddings
Tumbling leaves, lantern-lit lanes, and a canopy of twinkling stars.
Is it any wonder so many of us are head over heels for Autumn?
Barn weddings are having a real moment - complete with wooden beams, hay bale seats, fairy lights, and pumpkins.
Autumn and its many colors are pure magic, matched only by the warmth of gold jewelry.
In fact, October, often regarded as the spooky season, is trending as the most romantic month for weddings! In 2022, 20% of ALL U.S. weddings took place in October, with September to November reigning supreme annually as the busiest months to be wed!
Winter Wonderland Weddings
Snow-draped pine trees, roaring fireplaces, and sparkling frost as far as the eye can see.
A winter wedding is the perfect opportunity to get the family out of hibernation.
What could be more inviting than a toasty chalet?
Decor-wise, think deep reds, rich greens, faux furs, and plush velvet.
Just be sure to plan ahead, factoring in potential storms and limited venue availability.
Adorn yourselves with silver and platinum bands, and shine brighter than the star atop the tree!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Month
Guest Gab:Sure, July might sound fabulous, but will Uncle Joe miss his annual fishing retreat? Gauging guest availability can save you from empty chairs and missed dance-offs.
Personality:Maybe you've dreamt of an October wedding since you first laid eyes on a pumpkin patch, or perhaps summer speaks to your soul. Pick what you like. Trends come and go, but it’s your big day!
Prioritize:If your favorite flower blooms best in August, but the local venue is half-off in September, it’s time to reflect on what matters most to you.
Cultural Variations
Did you know it’s customary for the bride to wear red in China? The lunar month of August is hugely popular for weddings here.
In India, it’s customary for newlyweds to enjoy a spot of star-gazing, with 3.2 million weddings taking place between November and December.
They don’t let the freezing winters stop them from celebrating in Russia, where weddings typically last up to a week!
The Bottom Line
There’s no right or wrong time to say ‘I do.’
It all depends on your likes and dislikes.
Just remember to plan ahead and prepare for all eventualities.
Whether it’s raining, scorching, or the weather’s just right, you’ll be too swept up in the moment to worry about what could have been.
Visit us at our Buffalo, NY store today or chat with our wedding experts online 24/7, call us at (716) 631-1584, or text (888) 841-5391. Let’s make your special day everything you’ve ever dreamed of!
Peter Manka Jr. - Owner at Ben Garelick
Peter Manka Jr. is a passionate member of the family business who joined Ben Garelick in the early 2000s after working in product licensing for Sesame Workshop & The Jim Henson Company for many years. He obtained a degree in diamonds and jewelry from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in order to sharpen his jewelry skills. He takes great pride in providing exceptional customer service and helping clients find the perfect piece of jewelry.
