As a general rule, a wedding takes at least six months to organise.

If the couple want to book a popular church or reception venue during busy summer months then more time may be required.

If the ceremony is to be held at a register office or the home of the bride/groom, things may take less time to organise.

Couples who set the date for over a year in advance can find that this a long waiting period; it is unusual for an engagement to last more than 18 months.

• The first decision to be made is the time of year. Most brides to be will have an idea of the season in which they would like to get married.
• Spring and summer (May-September) are the most popular months in the UK, with June being the busiest of all.
• Saturday is the most popular day for weddings; Fridays may prove to be a good, and sometimes more economic, alternative.
• The honeymoon should be researched - is the dream destination suitable at that time of year?
• The bride and groom should check when they can take time off work.
• The day should not clash with major sporting events or bank holidays.
• School and summer holidays should be considered - for example, friends may be away on holiday during August.
• A Christmas wedding may clash with many guests' family commitments.
• The choice of wedding day may be a good opportunity to mark a significant anniversary.

See Wedding Style: Season

See Honeymoon Destinations

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