Holiday Weekend Wedding
Holiday weekend weddings are one of those topics that spark strong opinions. Some couples love the idea of extra time to celebrate. Others worry about travel, cost, or stepping on family traditions. The truth is, holiday weekend weddings can be wonderful, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all choice.
If you’re considering tying the knot on a holiday weekend, here’s a realistic, down-to-earth look at the pros, cons, and guest considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Why Couples Choose a Holiday Weekend Wedding
Let’s start with the reasons couples are drawn to holiday weekends in the first place because there are some real perks.
More Time to Celebrate
The biggest advantage? Time.
With an extra day off built in, holiday weekend weddings naturally turn into wedding weekends instead of one quick event. That means:
Welcome drinks the night before
A relaxed wedding day
Brunch or a casual goodbye gathering the next day
For couples who value connection and quality time, this alone can make a holiday weekend feel worth it.
Easier Time Off for Guests
Since many guests already have the day off, they don’t need to take as much PTO. This can be especially helpful if:
Your guest list includes people traveling from out of town
Guests work demanding schedules
You’re planning a destination or semi-destination wedding
For some families, this makes attending easier, not harder.
Built-In Festive Feel
Holiday weekends often come with a natural sense of celebration. Think:
Memorial Day = summer kickoff vibes
Labor Day = relaxed end-of-summer energy
Fourth of July = fun, patriotic touches
New Year’s Eve = built-in party atmosphere
You don’t have to lean into the holiday theme, but the energy can add something special to the weekend.
Venue Availability
Believe it or not, some holiday weekends are easier to book, especially if couples avoid them out of fear of guest conflicts. That can mean:
More date options
Occasionally better package availability
Less competition for vendors
This varies by location, but it’s worth asking venues about.
The Cons of Holiday Weekend Weddings (Let’s Be Honest)
Holiday weddings can be great but they come with trade-offs. Knowing them upfront helps avoid surprises.
Higher Travel Costs
Flights, hotels, and rental cars often cost more on holiday weekends. This can impact:
Out-of-town guests
Families traveling together
Guests on a tight budget
Even local guests may notice higher hotel rates for visiting relatives.
Conflicting Family Traditions
Holidays often come with expectations. Some guests may already have:
Annual family gatherings
Standing travel plans
Emotional attachments to certain holidays
This doesn’t mean you can’t choose a holiday it just means some guests may not be able to attend.
And that’s okay.
Lower Attendance (Sometimes)
Depending on the holiday, you may see a slightly smaller guest count. For some couples, that’s a downside. For others, it’s actually a benefit, especially if you’re aiming for a more intimate celebration.
Vendor Availability
Popular vendors may book holiday weekends early, or charge holiday rates. This is especially common for:
DJs
Photographers
Hair and makeup artists
Booking early helps, but flexibility is key.
Guest Considerations: The Most Important Part
When it comes to holiday weekend weddings, guest experience matters a lot.
Give Extra Notice
If you’re choosing a holiday weekend, send save-the-dates early, ideally 9–12 months out. This gives guests time to:
Adjust travel plans
Budget for the trip
Decide what works for their family
Clear communication goes a long way.
Be Honest About Expectations
Let guests know what kind of weekend you’re planning:
Is it a full weekend of events or just one day?
Is attendance at everything optional?
Are kids welcome?
Setting expectations upfront helps guests plan without stress.
Consider the Holiday Itself
Not all holidays feel the same.
Often Easier for Guests:
Memorial Day
Labor Day
New Year’s Day (or Eve)
More Sensitive for Guests:
Thanksgiving
Christmas
Mother’s Day
Easter
These holidays often involve deeper family traditions or travel expectations, so attendance may be more limited.
Make It Worth the Trip
If guests are giving up a holiday to celebrate with you, small gestures matter:
A thoughtful welcome note
Local recommendations
A relaxed, unhurried timeline
Optional activities instead of obligations
It doesn’t need to be elaborate, just intentional.
Holiday Weekend Weddings & Smaller Guest Lists
Holiday weekends pair especially well with:
Micro weddings
Intimate celebrations
Destination-style weddings
When you’re inviting only your closest people, the pressure around attendance tends to fade. Guests who truly want to be there usually make it work and the smaller setting often feels more meaningful.
Tips for Making a Holiday Weekend Wedding Work
If you’re leaning toward a holiday weekend, here are a few practical tips:
Be Flexible
Offer optional events instead of a packed schedule. Guests appreciate having downtime especially on holidays.
Plan Around Travel
Avoid super early start times or late endings that make travel stressful. A relaxed timeline feels intentional and guest-friendly.
Choose the Right Venue
Venues that support weekend-long celebrations, flexible timelines, and backup plans make holiday weddings feel seamless rather than stressful.
Let Go of Perfect Attendance
This one’s important. Some guests won’t be able to attend and that doesn’t mean they don’t love you. Choosing a holiday means accepting that reality with grace.
So… Is a Holiday Weekend Wedding Right for You?
A holiday weekend wedding can be a beautiful choice if:
You value time together over tradition
You’re okay with a slightly smaller guest list
You love the idea of a full wedding weekend
You communicate clearly and early
It may not be the best fit if:
Family attendance is your top priority
You want the lowest travel costs possible
The holiday carries emotional weight for loved ones
There’s no right or wrong answer only what feels right for you.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding doesn’t have to fit into a standard box. Whether you choose a holiday weekend or a regular Saturday, what matters most is that the day feels intentional, welcoming, and true to your relationship.
Holiday weekend weddings aren’t selfish. They aren’t inconvenient by default. They’re simply a different way to celebrate one that works beautifully for some couples and not for others.
Take the pressure off. Trust your instincts. And choose the path that makes your wedding feel like yours.