One of the key considerations for any couple getting married is setting the date. This can be a difficult decision to make, as there are various components that contribute to it. The weather, the activities, and even the cost can dictate when you plan to tie the knot.
You certainly want the day to be as perfect as possible. Nevertheless, there are varying opinions about what makes the perfect time of year to hold a ceremony. In most cases, the outcome will be based on what seasonal elements match your personal preferences and needs.
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Let’s dive a little deeper into the best seasons to say ‘I do’ and what you should consider.
In general, the times of year that are usually considered the best to get married are around March or November. This is because these months tend to offer the most attractive and comfortable weather options in Australia.
Nevertheless, it’s worth taking a look at some of the pros and cons for each season.
The spring months — September, October, and November — are great for outdoor weddings. The weather tends to be on the pleasant side without risking the discomfort of the peak summer months. This is also a time of year that provides some great foliage both for wedding bouquets and beautiful outdoor photo opportunities.
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On the downside, as one of the most popular times for weddings, you’re likely to find that venues are booked well in advance. What’s more, vendors can charge peak prices at this time of year.
The summer months — December, January, and February — tend to offer the longest days. This means that you can create wedding celebrations that capitalize on the outdoors. You can include beachfront activities, such as water sports and barbecues. It also tends to make for great honeymoon options.
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That said, in many parts of Australia, the summer is extremely hot. This not only limits your wedding outfit options, but it also means you must consider the consequences of your guests’ exposure to the heat.
Autumn — March, April, and May — can make for a great relaxed atmosphere for a wedding. There are cooler temperatures and some interesting floral options. Your ability to wear more elaborate outfits also tends to make this time of year perfect for theme weddings.
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As with spring, this tends to be another peak wedding season, which can affect costs. You also won’t have as much access to daylight, which may dictate your photography schedule and options.
Winter — June, July, and August —can make for a truly beautiful wedding. Particularly in parts of Australia that see snow, you can experience a winter wonderland. You’re also likely to find that vendor prices will be cheaper as they are less in demand.
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Nevertheless, this is also a time of year that tends to see a lot of grey and rainy weather. This doesn’t necessarily make for a particularly festive atmosphere. Not to mention that options for outdoor activities and photos might be limited.
Establishing the best season to say ‘I do’ is actually a deeply personal process. Often, the best approach is to review the components of the season and understand how these meet your needs as a couple. You can then choose accordingly.
Your needs here may be aesthetic in nature. If the bride and groom have specific ideal outfits in mind to look and feel their best, it can be wise to understand which season these clothes will be most practical and comfortable. Many couples have a dream of the backdrop they want their nuptials to take place in, and this tends to require consideration of what the weather is likely to be.
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Some of your requirements may also be health-related. If one or both of you have mobility challenges, choosing a season that enables the easiest navigation of a venue can be key. Other considerations may be related to mental health. Summertime seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a prominent issue, which may be triggered by thermoregulatory sensitivities or changing sleep cycles, among other elements. Shielding from the sun or heat can be useful in addressing symptoms. So, the ability to access shelter may factor into what season you choose.
In some instances, you may not be able to arrange your wedding day for the perfect month. This doesn’t mean that all is necessarily lost. It’s worth considering how you can mitigate the challenges and still have a great ceremony.
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For instance, family or work circumstances might mean you need to hold your wedding at a time of year that doesn’t have the ideal climate. In this case, you might consider a destination wedding. While it might be grey and wet in August in Australia, countries such as Italy and Bermuda are in their peak summer months.
If you’re unable to secure your perfect venue in the summer, consider what non-traditional venues you may be able to take advantage of. Breweries and vineyards can make for festive outdoor events. Historic mansions also tend to have gardens that provide beautiful summer backdrops.
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While spring and autumn tend to traditionally be the best times of year for a wedding, the matter is far from cut-and-dried. Each season offers a range of pros and cons. It’s important to consider these and how they affect your needs as a couple. Remember that even if you can’t get married in your ideal season, some adjustments can help make certain your day is still special.