Planning your dream wedding involves countless decisions, and one choice that’s gaining popularity among modern couples is hosting their celebration on a weekday. While Saturday ceremonies have long been the traditional choice, many couples are discovering that Wednesday through Friday weddings offer unique advantages that can transform their special day into something truly memorable.
At Windows on the Water, we’ve helped countless couples create magical weekday celebrations across our 86-acre lakeside resort in Millstone Township, New Jersey. Our team understands that every couple’s vision is different, and we’re here to help you weigh the benefits and considerations of a weekday wedding so you can make the best choice for your celebration.
The Advantages of Weekday Weddings
Booking a weekday wedding includes the following advantages:
Significant Cost Savings
One of the most compelling reasons couples choose weekday weddings is the substantial savings they offer. Most wedding vendors, including venues, photographers, florists, and caterers, offer reduced rates for Monday through Thursday events. These savings can range from 20% to 50% off weekend pricing, allowing you to allocate more of your budget toward other elements like upgraded catering, enhanced decor, or that dream honeymoon.
The cost benefits extend beyond vendor pricing. Many couples find they can afford higher-end options they might not have considered for a Saturday celebration. This could mean upgrading to premium menu selections, adding special touches like live entertainment, or extending your celebration with additional activities for your guests.
Greater Vendor Availability and Flexibility
Weekday weddings open up a world of possibilities when it comes to vendor selection. Your first-choice photographer, florist, or entertainment options are more likely to be available, giving you access to the best professionals in the industry. This increased availability often means vendors can dedicate more time and attention to your event, since they’re not juggling multiple weekend bookings.
Venues also tend to be more flexible with setup and breakdown times during the week. You might have more time for decorating, extended photo sessions, or rehearsal opportunities that wouldn’t be possible during busy weekend schedules.
More Intimate Guest Experience
A weekday celebration naturally creates a more intimate atmosphere. The guests who attend are typically your closest family and friends—those who wouldn’t miss your special day regardless of when it takes place. This can lead to a more meaningful celebration where you can spend quality time with each guest and create deeper connections throughout the evening.
The reduced guest count that often accompanies weekday weddings can also allow for more personalized touches, from custom menu selections to individualized favors that show your appreciation for those who made the effort to celebrate with you.
Potential Challenges to Consider
It’s also important to consider all of your potential challenges, including:
Guest Attendance Limitations
The primary consideration with weekday weddings is that some invited guests may not be able to attend due to work commitments, childcare arrangements, or travel constraints. This is particularly true for guests who would need to take time off work or arrange overnight accommodations. It’s important to survey your must-have guests early in the planning process to ensure your closest family and friends can join you.
Consider providing plenty of advance notice—ideally six months or more—so guests can plan accordingly. Some couples choose to send save-the-dates even earlier for weekday events to maximize attendance from their priority guest list.
Vendor and Service Limitations
While many vendors offer weekday availability, some services may have limitations during the week. Certain musicians, officiants, or hair and makeup artists might not be available on specific weekdays, and some vendors may have different service packages for weekday events.
Additionally, if you’re planning a destination wedding or have many out-of-town guests, weekday celebrations may require additional planning for accommodations and extended stays. Guests might need to take multiple days off work, which could impact attendance or create additional expenses for your loved ones.
Making the Right Choice for Your Celebration
When deciding whether a weekday wedding is right for you, consider your priorities, guest list, and overall vision for your special day. If budget savings, vendor availability, and an intimate atmosphere align with your goals, a weekday celebration might be perfect. However, if maximizing guest attendance is your top priority, a weekend event might better suit your needs.
Ready to explore the possibilities for your weekday wedding celebration? Our experienced team at Windows on the Water has been creating unforgettable lakeside weddings for couples throughout New Jersey, earning recognition as Wedding Wire Bride’s Choice award winners. From our stunning 4,000 square foot all-weather tent to our picturesque waterside patio, we offer the perfect backdrop for celebrations any day of the week. Contact us at (609) 208-9475 or visit our contact page to schedule a tour and discuss how we can bring your weekday wedding vision to life.