The Rise of Weekday Weddings
Why More Couples Are Saying ‘I Do’ Monday Through Thursday
By: Emily Hole
In the world of weddings, Saturdays have long reigned supreme. But in recent years, especially in the wake of changing work lifestyles, tighter budgets, and more flexible event venues, the rise of weekday weddings has gone from unusual to undeniably trendy. More and more couples are ditching the traditional weekend timeline in favor of Monday through Thursday nuptials, and honestly? It makes a lot of sense.
Why Are Weekday Weddings Trending?
Budget-Friendly Options One of the biggest advantages of a weekday wedding is the cost. Venues, vendors, and even hotels often offer discounts for non-peak days. That dreamy venue that might be booked solid on Saturdays for the next year? It might just be available (and way more affordable) on a Tuesday evening. Couples are realizing they can stretch their budget further without sacrificing quality.
More Vendor Availability Photographers, florists, DJs, and caterers are often booked months in advance for weekend weddings. Weekdays open up a whole new calendar of possibilities. This means couples are more likely to book their top-choice vendors without worrying about clashing dates or long waitlists.
Smaller, More Intimate Gatherings Weekday weddings naturally encourage smaller guest lists. Since guests may need to take time off work or travel midweek, the couple’s guest list typically includes their closest family and friends. This makes the event feel more intimate, personal, and meaningful.
The Post-Pandemic Flexibility Shift Remote work, hybrid schedules, and a general rethinking of work-life balance have made it easier for guests to attend weekday celebrations. It’s not uncommon now for people to take a day or two off, or work remotely from the hotel the next day. As work schedules become more flexible, so do our social calendars.
Multi-Day Wedding Experiences Some couples are turning weekday weddings into extended celebrations. For example, a Thursday wedding could turn into a full weekend of fun—beach days, brunches, winery tours, or group excursions. The wedding becomes less of a one-day event and more of a shared getaway.
Tips for Planning a Weekday Wedding
- Give Plenty of Notice: Since your big day falls on a workday, give guests at least 6–8 months’ notice so they can plan ahead.
- Consider Evening Ceremonies: Hosting your wedding in the late afternoon or early evening helps accommodate those working earlier in the day.
- Offer Convenience: Consider guest-friendly accommodations, group transportation, or even live-streaming options for those who can’t make it.
- Make It Special: Just because it’s a weekday doesn’t mean it can’t feel extraordinary. Add a signature cocktail, custom playlist, or unique guest favors to make it stand out.
Weekday weddings are no longer just a backup plan—they’re a bold, beautiful choice. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full-blown celebration, there’s something incredibly refreshing about doing things your way. After all, love doesn’t wait for Saturday.