If you’ve found your way here, you’ve probably been asked “When’s the wedding?” a few times already. “Setting a date” is essentially code for securing your wedding venue and is one of the first tasks to tackle in wedding planning. Here are a few key factors to consider when planning your wedding and deciding on the best time of year to get married.
How to Choose Your Wedding Date: Start With Your Vision and Priorities
Take a moment to picture your day. Do you envision warm summer gardens, crisp autumn color, or a cozy candlelit winter dinner? Talk with your partner about:
- Your ideal season and overall wedding vibe
- Approximate guest count
- A general budget comfort zone
- Any life milestones (moves, graduations, pre-set family events)
This clarity will guide when to book a wedding venue and which dates make the most sense for you.
Wedding Planning Timeline: Quick vs. Long Engagement
There’s no single wedding planning timeline, just what fits your lives.
Quick Engagement (6–10 months):
Faster planning pace, tighter payment schedule, and limited vendor availability. Great if you make decisions quickly and don’t mind a sprint.
Long Engagement (18–24 months):
More time to save, research, and refine details. Ideal if you want to savor the process and thoughtfully curate your day.
Why Your Wedding Date Matters More Than You Think
Your date shapes your experience, your photos, and your budget. Consider:
- Light & Sunset:
- Check sunset time for your location, to guide the ceremony start time and photo plans.
- Spring and fall often offer soft, romantic light for outdoor ceremonies and portraits.
- Summer sunsets stretch golden hour later into the evening.
- Winter weddings provide dark, dramatic, candlelit dinners.
- Pricing & flexibility:
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- Peak-season Saturdays are in the highest demand and typically carry premium pricing.
- Being flexible with Fridays, Sundays, Thursdays, or off‑season months (November–April) often discover they can elevate their design or menu choices with the same overall investment.
- Venue versatility:
- Venues with indoor backup spaces you love will alleviate worrying about the weather.
Seasonal Wedding Inspiration: Think in Seasons, Not Just Dates
Instead of fixating on one specific date, start by choosing a season you’d be excited to get married in.
Spring Weddings: Soft pastels, fresh blooms, and mild weather. Cherry blossoms in April, peonies in May, and roses in June.
Summer Weddings: Vibrant greenery, long days, and romantic golden‑hour portraits.
Fall Weddings: Rich color, falling foliage, and milder temperatures.
Winter Weddings: Candlelight, twinkling lights, and frosted gardens for a cozy celebration.
Booking Your Wedding Venue: Securing the Celebration Space
Once you’ve narrowed down your season and general budget, it’s time to check wedding venue availability.
- Popular venues are often booked 14–18 months in advance for peak weekends.
- If you’re considering a date a year or more away, assume other couples are eyeing it too.
- Reach out early to start a conversation; booking a wedding venue in New Jersey or any popular region is much easier when you’re flexible on exact dates within a chosen season.
Ready to Find Your Date? Schedule a Tour at Crossed Keys Estate
Your perfect day starts with a setting that reflects your vision. Explore how each season transforms Crossed Keys Estate to imagine your wedding unfolding here.
Contact us to schedule a private tour or to inquire about venue availability.
Photography Credits:
Alex Schon Photography
Caroline Morris Photography
Courtney Simpson Photography
Earth + Moon Photography
Dyanna LaMora Photography
Hannah Synder Photography
Heather Tabora Photography
Jaymo Jaymes
Kara McCurdy Photography
Keli Photography
Kristin Piteo Photo
Kylie McCann Photography
Longbrook Photography
Mackenzie Grace Creative
Magda & Simon Photography
Mary Dougherty Photography
Jordan Jankun Photography
Thalia Photography
