Choosing the perfect month to say “I do” is a crucial decision in wedding planning! Whether you’re envisioning a spring garden party or a summer soirée, the timing of your event can have a big impact on the overall atmosphere, budget, and even the availability of your preferred vendors.
Knowing the most popular months to get married can be a good starting point to help you narrow down your options. Read on for your guide to “wedding season” across the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, including the most (and least!) popular times of year to tie the knot.
What is Wedding Season?
Wedding season is an important consideration when choosing your wedding date, but what does it actually mean?
“Wedding season” simply refers to the time of year when the majority of weddings take place in a particular location. This is typically due to more favorable weather conditions – but it also means the demand (and prices) can be higher for venues and vendors.
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to the “best” wedding month, as each season has its pros and cons. For example: a winter wedding can be just as beautiful (and often more affordable) than a spring wedding, even though it’s typically regarded as an off-peak season.
With this in mind, we’ve rounded up the most popular wedding months for the Northern and Southern Hemisphere below. Feel free to use these months as a helpful guiding point, but be sure to consider your budget and preferences, too!
When is Wedding Season in The Northern Hemisphere?
If you’re planning your wedding in the Northern Hemisphere, you can expect peak wedding season to commence in late spring and continue through to early fall. Off-peak season in this part of the world generally includes the winter months of January, February and March.
The 5 Most Popular Months to Get Married in The Northern Hemisphere
- June. June marks the beginning of summer, bringing with it warm temperatures, pleasant weather and longer days. You’ll also find a variety of flowers in full bloom, including peonies and roses.
- September. As summer transitions into fall, September offers comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal month for outdoor celebrations. The changing foliage also provides a picturesque backdrop for weddings!
- October. October is one of the most popular months for weddings in the Northern Hemisphere, with vibrant foliage creating a stunning backdrop. While cooler than summer, October still maintains relatively mild temperatures. Days become shorter in October, so couples may want to plan accordingly for earlier ceremonies.
- May. May is considered a “shoulder month” which means pricing can be more affordable for weddings during this time. If you’re planning a destination wedding, this is a great month to take advantage of cheaper airfares before the prices are hiked for summer.
- July. This warm summer month is another popular time of year for Northern Hemisphere weddings. If you’re planning an outdoor or beach wedding, this is a great option to consider!
When is Wedding Season in The Southern Hemisphere?
Just like the Northern Hemisphere, autumn and spring are the most popular times of year to tie the knot in the Southern Hemisphere. This means wedding season typically kicks off towards the end of March, and picks up again from September to November.
Keep in mind that summer can be extremely hot in the Southern Hemisphere, so this season (together with winter) would actually be considered an off-peak season.
The Most Popular Months to Get Married in The Southern Hemisphere
- April. Not too hot, not too cold, April offers the perfect mild weather for an autumn celebration. The weather patterns are also more predictable during this time, making it easier to plan an outdoor wedding. As one of the busiest months for weddings, you’ll want to book your venue and vendors well in advance.
- May. May offers similar temperatures to April while being slightly cooler at night. This season also has dreamy orange sunsets, making for beautiful photo backdrops!
- September. September marks the beginning of spring in the Southern Hemisphere, so it’s an ideal month for garden weddings. You’ll also be able to enjoy a variety of flowers in bloom (and delicious seasonal produce) for a fresh, vibrant atmosphere.
- October. Another pleasant spring month, October is incredibly busy for weddings, so you’ll need to get in early to secure your preferred vendors.
- November. November brings slightly warmer temperatures, so you can enjoy comfortable sunny days without the peak summer heat! If you’re planning a destination wedding, this is also a more affordable time of year for airfares and accommodation before prices increase for summer.
Choosing the Right Wedding Date
Remember, there’s really no “perfect” wedding month – it all comes down to your budget and the overall vibe you want to create.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor beach party, an early summer wedding might be the best option. But if you want to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere without breaking the bank, a winter wedding could be a great fit.
Still unsure? Check out our ultimate guide to choosing your wedding date here!