Wedding Planning Guide 2015 – Article No. 4
Marriage, it seems, will never go out of fashion. Even with the rise in cohabitation, every year, over 150,000 Canadians still choose to formally tie the knot, with an average sticker price of just over $32K – a whopping investment to make for a one-day party. Yet this already high cost can become even higher depending on where, when, and how you get married. Time of year, and even time of day, can have a huge impact on your costs. Here’s what you need to know to control the final cost of your wedding.
Save the Date
If you’ve been a frequent wedding guest, you’re probably aware that the most popular months to get married are July and August. 49% of weddings will occur between July and September. The most popular month to marry in is August. September has edged out July for second most popular month for the second consecutive year. Because demand is so high, expect to pay a premium in these months. The least popular months are January, March and November, so you can expect to save money from venues and vendors eager to keep busy during this low season. If you are willing to take a risk on weather or have a partially indoor wedding, consider shoulder season months like May, June, September and October, where prices will also be lower than in peak season. Summer weddings run the risk of messing up your friends’ cottage plans, but it’s a sacrifice most people are willing to make, especially with 6-9 months’ notice.
Watch the Time
If you absolutely must have a Valentine’s Day or Christmas wedding, or you really want to get married in June, there are still ways to save. Like most events, weddings are cheaper if held Sunday to Thursday; most venues won’t be packed, so you’ll have your pick of dates, and discounts should be offered. A Friday brunch reception in the winter can save you big bucks compared to a Saturday dinner reception on an August long weekend An even greater savings can come from having your ceremony and reception at an unconventional time – breakfast, say, or brunch. Holding a brunch reception means that your alcohol costs should be greatly reduced, allowing you to plow the savings back into a really spectacular meal; you can have chef stations where guests can order custom omelettes and waffles, or load up on seafood platters heavy on premium ingredients like raw oysters, shrimp and smoked salmon. You can also have an afternoon or evening wedding with a cake reception. If this is specified on the invitation, guests will know to go ahead and eat lunch or dinner first – you’re going to be providing not only delicious wedding cake, but lots of other sweet treats and beverages for them to enjoy.
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