The moment you and your partner announce that you are engaged, people will start asking whether you have set a date for your UK wedding. Understandably, it’s the go-to follow-up question. Of course, you may haven’t done this yet since you want to discover the best time to get married in the UK. Luckily, you’re thinking in the right direction!
Getting engaged is the easy part. What comes after usually overwhelms couples—the whole organisational process. If you ask us, the safest place to start is by choosing when to begin and then continuing with the rest.
Just like any other wedding destination, the UK offers some stunning venues and sites that will fit perfectly into your celebration’s vision. And since each has its charm, the decision for the best time to get married in the UK depends on your priorities, vision, and even your guests’ convenience. Still, some insider info always comes in handy, especially if you’re trying not to spend a little fortune on your wedding.
Here is a short overview of the wedding season in the UK and some practical advice to help you choose the perfect time to say “I do”.
A Spring Blooming Romance (March to May)
While spring weddings are famously pretty, few couples decide to host their big day in March. On the other hand, April and May are quite popular months to get married in the UK. Couples love hosting their celebration in spring because it gives them the balance of warmer weather without the sweat-inducing heat of high summer. The longer daylight hours also make spring weddings appealing to many couples.
Pros:
- Spring provides a stunning natural backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and photos with all those blooming flowers and lush gardens.
- Yes, showers are common, but the weather is pleasant overall. The mild temperatures create a comfortable environment for outdoor receptions or garden parties. And if rain comes your way, use it to your advantage to create unique wedding photos!
- Spring is the season of flowers like daffodils, tulips, and peonies. Imagine all those colourful floral arrangements that bring a sense of freshness to the wedding day.
Cons:
- April showers are real, so yes, the weather can get unpredictable. Always have a backup plan because, while some rain can be romantic, it might limit your outdoor options.
- While March may not be that popular, April is when the wedding season in the UK takes off, meaning the demand for venues is much higher.
Long Summer Days and Warm Evenings (June to August)
Summer is arguably the most popular time for UK weddings. The extended daylight hours and warm weather create the perfect conditions for outdoor ceremonies. Evening receptions and garden parties are quite popular among couples dreaming of a sunny, breezy wedding.
Pros:
- The UK isn’t known for its blazing summer so couples can count on the most reliable warm weather between June and August.
- Due to the longer daylight hours, summer weddings offer a more relaxed schedule, giving you more time for celebrations and photo opportunities.
- This time of the year, you can explore a wide range of venue styles for your outdoor wedding.
Cons:
- Since August is dubbed the best month to get married in the UK, suppliers are also in high demand, and you can expect them to charge premium rates during this time.
- Summer is a holiday season, so some of your guests may already have travel plans. With that in mind, RSVP cards are a must!
The Cosy and Colourful Autumn (September to November)
Autumn UK weddings are getting popular by the minute! Unsurprisingly, couples fall in love with the rich colours of the changing leaves, rustic and warm tones, and seasonal decor. This helps them to create a cosy, intimate atmosphere for celebrations.
Pros:
- Imagine the golden, amber, and red hues of autumn foliage. These stunning natural colours look fantastic in your photos and as decor for outdoor ceremonies.
- Early autumn still enjoys mild weather and comfortable temperatures. Couples prefer this weather for outdoor ceremonies as opposed to summer’s heat or winter’s chills.
- Think of some of the most fantastic and unique wedding themes you can create. Pumpkins, rustic decor, and cosy blankets allow for creative and distinctive themes.
Cons:
- The sun sets earlier in autumn, so the daylight hours become shorter. You may need to schedule outdoor ceremonies earlier in the day.
- Autumn is another season when the weather can be tricky and unpredictable. Rain and cooler temperatures start to creep in, especially in October and November.
A Magical Winter Wonderland (December to February)
Have you always admired the intimate and cosy atmosphere of winter weddings? Yes, they can surely be magical. The colder months may not be the best time to get married in the UK as the other seasons. But a winter wedding surely offers unique charm and the opportunity for a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Pros:
- Candlelit ceremonies, festive decor, and the chance for a stunning winter wonderland theme are just some of the perks of a winter wedding that can feel incredibly intimate.
- The beauty of having an off-season wedding is finding better availability and more affordable rates for venues, caterers, and suppliers.
- Getting married during the holiday season certainly adds an extra layer of celebration and joy for both you and your guests.
Cons:
- The cold and unpredictable weather limits venue selection, making outdoor ceremonies and receptions less ideal.
- Travelling in winter is sometimes challenging for guests who may find it harder to attend.
Conclusion
Some seasons stand out when it comes to weddings. Ultimately, your preferences will determine the best time to get married in the UK. Think about your priorities and the atmosphere you want to create. Do you want a sunny summer celebration, a whimsical winter wonderland, or something in between?
The key to a successful wedding is preparation – regardless of the time of year. Plan the perfect day by considering all the possibilities – understand the weather, the practicalities of your venue, and the guest experience. The beauty of UK weddings is that no matter when you choose to say “I do,” you’ll find just the right historic venue with a timeless sense of romance.
Once you set the date, your search for the best suppliers begins! Naturally, a UK wedding photographer ranks quite high on that list, no matter which theme you’re going for. That said, check out our work and contact us for inquiries and bookings.
