Cheapest Month to Marry: How Timing Can Save You Hundreds

Thinking about cutting wedding costs? One of the easiest ways to save is to pick the right month. Some months are downright cheap because venues, vendors, and even travel rates dip when fewer couples say "I do." In this guide, we’ll show you which months usually cost the least and give you practical tricks to lock in the best deals.

Why the Month Matters

Most wedding expenses are seasonal. In peak months – typically June, July, and August – venues compete for bookings, so prices soar. Off‑peak months, on the other hand, have more availability and lower rates. The difference can be as much as 20‑30% for a venue alone. Vendors such as photographers, caterers, and florists also adjust their fees based on demand, so shifting your date can shave big dollars off the total.

The Cheapest Months (Based on UK Data)

January and February – Almost everyone is still recovering from the holidays, so venues often offer deep discounts. You’ll also find cheaper accommodation for out‑of‑town guests.

March – Early spring brings milder weather without the rush of May‑June weddings. Many vendors start their “off‑season specials” in March.

November – After the summer rush, November is a quiet month for most venues. If you don’t mind a cooler day, you can snag amazing price cuts.

These months consistently appear as the most budget‑friendly in UK wedding surveys. Of course, your exact savings depend on your location and the style of wedding you want, but starting here gives you a solid baseline.

Practical Tips to Maximise Savings

Book early in the off‑season – The first few weeks of January typically have the lowest rates. Reach out to venues and vendors as soon as you have a date in mind.

Be flexible with weekdays – A Saturday is always pricier. Consider a Friday, Saturday evening, or even a Sunday ceremony to lower venue fees.

Negotiate bundled services – Ask your photographer if they can provide both ceremony and reception coverage for a single price. Bundles often come with a discount.

Leverage off‑peak catering menus – Seasonal produce is cheaper in winter, so you can create a delicious menu without the premium summer ingredients.

Use DIY where it makes sense – Simple centrepieces made from winter foliage or repurposed holiday décor can look stunning and save you on florist costs.

Real‑World Example

Sarah and Tom chose a January Saturday for their wedding in Manchester. By booking a venue that typically charges £4,000 in June, they paid only £2,800. Their photographer offered a 15% off‑season discount, and the caterer used a winter menu that saved another £500. Their total budget dropped from an estimated £12,000 to just under £9,000 – a 25% saving, mostly just from picking the right month.

That’s the power of timing. You don’t need a massive budget to have a beautiful day; you just need to be smart about when you say "I do."

Ready to start planning? Look at your calendar, spot the off‑peak windows, and reach out to venues before they fill up. The cheapest month to marry could be the month that gives you both a great wedding and extra cash for the honeymoon.