Holiday weddings can be so incredibly dreamy!! But there is also a lot to consider when it comes to planning a wedding during the most expensive and busiest time of the year. We created 5 Rules when it comes to Planning a Wedding close to the Holidays to help you decide if you want to take the leap! And if you decide you are you going to be that person, WE ARE ROOTING FOR YOU SIS.

1. Consider the Travel and Availability of your Guests

Save the Date! (ASAP)

When planning a wedding close to the holidays, it’s important to consider the schedules and availability of your guests! Many people have already made travel plans or have other commitments during the holiday season, so it’s important to give them as much notice as possible. This means sending out your save the dates & invitations earlier than usual!

2. Plan Ahead

Secure Secure Secure

With save the dates going out earlier, that means a venue needs to be secured early as well. Many popular wedding venues and vendors may already be booked for the holiday season, or will be taking time off. Start planning early and have backup options in case your first choices are not available! The best thing about booking a planner, is we work with so many amazing vendors that your first, second, or third choices are surely going to bring your vision to life. We got you!

Since it can also be difficult to find a venue that is available during the holiday season, it is a must to be flexible and open to alternative options. Consider venues that are not typically used for weddings, such as museums or art galleries!

3. Don’t forget about the Holidays

People still want a Little Holiday Cheer

While your wedding is an important event, it’s also important to consider the holiday season and how it may impact your guests and their plans. Incorporating holiday elements into your wedding can go a long way to have your guests feel as though they’re not missing out on the holiday cheer.

Even if you do not plan on having a festive holiday theme, there are many other ways to give your guests a little holiday spirit. Some fun ways include a holiday themed wedding favor, a holiday themed drink, holiday photo ops such as a mistletoe, or even a holiday themed dessert table! One of my personal favs is a hot chocolate bar, where guests can choose their toppings & flavors.

4. Prepare for Inclement Weather

Prepare for the Unexpected

The holiday season is often associated with colder temperatures and highly inclement weather, even in warmer areas with those surprise rainstorms. Always have a backup plan in case of bad weather. This could mean booking a venue with an indoor option, keeping an umbrella with you to save your hair & make-up, or providing blankets as a wedding favor in case the somewhat low temps drop even lower.

If you plan on inviting many guests from out of town that may need to fly or drive, keep in mind the potential difficulties your guests may face getting to your location. Weather and busy travel schedules can lead to flight delays and even closed roads!

5. Consider the Cost

There may be a Holiday Premium!

We all know the holiday season is an extremely busy and expensive time of year. This may also be reflected in the cost of your wedding! Be prepared for higher costs for venues, vendors, and travel. While you should always have some wiggle room in your budget when planning a wedding, be extra prepared for some additional costs when it comes to planning close to the holidays!

Saving the date during the busy holiday season can scary, but if you follow our 5 Rules when it comes to Planning a Wedding close to the Holidays, the less you’ll need to stress and the more you can turn your holiday wedding dreams into reality. Contact Ember and Stone Events to start planning!