How to Choose a Wedding Date

Getting engaged is exciting—but once the champagne’s been popped, you’re probably asking yourself how to choose a wedding date. It’s one of the first big decisions you’ll need to make, and it sets the tone for nearly every other part of the planning process. In this post, you’ll learn how to think about the season and location of your wedding, how your lifestyle and priorities should shape your timeline, and why flexibility with vendors makes a big difference. If you’re newly engaged and feeling a little overwhelmed, this guide will help you make a thoughtful decision with clarity and confidence.

Choosing your wedding date isn’t just about circling a day on the calendar. It’s about considering how you want your day to feel, what kind of experience you want for your guests, and how your timeline fits with your lifestyle. Especially if you’re planning a Colorado wedding, there are a few unique seasonal and logistical factors to keep in mind.

While it’s tempting to pick a meaningful date right away, don’t commit to one until you’ve looked into venue availability. Popular venues can book out 12–18 months in advance, especially during peak months like June, September, and October. Starting with a season or month—rather than a single date—will give you more flexibility and a better chance of locking in the vendors you want.

Here’s how to choose a wedding date that works for you.

Start Big, Then Get Specific

The best way to approach this decision is to zoom out before you zoom in. When you choose a wedding date, start by thinking about the year you want to get married. Is there a general timeframe that feels right?

Once you’ve narrowed that down, think about the season. Each season in Colorado has a different vibe—and different planning considerations. After you’ve chosen a season, pick a day of the week or a few weekend options. That way, when you talk to venues, you can say something like, “We’re hoping for a Friday or Saturday in late summer next year,” and go from there.

This step-by-step approach keeps you from getting too attached to a single date before you know what’s realistic. It also makes things smoother once you start reaching out to vendors.

Consider the Colorado Season You’re Dreaming About

Colorado is beautiful year-round, but the weather—and the logistics—change dramatically by season. Before you land on a date, think about how you hope Colorado will look and feel on your wedding day.

Winter weddings in the mountains can be magical, but they come with challenges. Ski traffic, icy roads, and unpredictable storms can complicate travel, especially for guests unfamiliar with snow. If you love the idea of snow-covered peaks and cozy indoor vibes, just be mindful of the logistics.

Fall is a popular time for a reason: golden aspens, crisp air, and stunning colors. But keep in mind that peak foliage changes year to year based on weather and altitude. Higher elevations see color changes earlier—sometimes as early as mid-September—while lower elevations turn later in the season.

Spring weddings can be tricky in Colorado. While you might picture wildflowers and green hillsides, many mountain areas still have snow on the ground well into May or even June. If you’re set on a spring wedding, consider lower elevations or venues with indoor options.

Summer offers the most predictable weather and the widest range of venue options. Just remember that June and July are usually in high demand—and temperatures can climb in places like the Front Range.

Think About Your Lifestyle and Priorities

Beyond the scenery, your lifestyle should play a major role in choosing your wedding date. Ask yourself: what times of year are busiest for work? Are there any personal commitments you need to avoid, like school breaks or travel plans?

Also consider how long you want to be engaged. A longer engagement can give you more time to plan, save, and secure your ideal vendors. A shorter timeline may require flexibility, but it can also keep momentum high and decision-making focused.

If budget is a factor—keep in mind that some venues offer off-season pricing or midweek discounts. Weddings on Fridays or Sundays can sometimes come with more availability and lower costs than Saturdays.

Keep Your Guests and Key People in Mind

You don’t have to plan your wedding around everyone else’s availability. But it’s worth checking in with the people who matter most—like your immediate family and wedding party—before locking in a date.

It would be tough to find out that your sibling, best friend, or someone important can’t attend the date you’ve chosen. While you can’t please everyone, a quick check-in with your inner circle can help you avoid major conflicts.

For out-of-town guests, consider travel logistics. Major holidays, school breaks, and busy travel weekends can affect airfare and availability. If you’re inviting people from out of state or out of the country, give them plenty of notice with a save-the-date.

Think Through Vendor Availability

Some months in Colorado are far more competitive than others. June, September, and October tend to book out quickly, especially with photographers, planners, and venues. If you have your heart set on a particular vendor, it’s best to reach out early and be flexible on your date.

On the flip side, if you’re open to a less popular month or a weekday celebration, you’ll likely have more options—and possibly a more relaxed planning process.

Start by researching venues that match your vision. Rather than asking if your dream venue is free on a single date, ask what dates they have available in your preferred timeframe. That way, you’re setting yourself up for success from the beginning.

Understand the Local Climate

Colorado is known for its sunshine—especially in the Denver metro area, which averages over 300 sunny days a year. That means your chances of rain on your wedding day are relatively low. Still, weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, and spring snowstorms can pop up without warning.

Plan for the weather, but don’t obsess over it. A good venue and a solid plan will help you feel prepared, rain or shine.

Flexibility Is Your Superpower

Here’s the truth: there’s no perfect wedding date. But there is a date—or a set of possible dates—that aligns with your vision, your lifestyle, and your priorities.

The more flexible you are, the easier your planning process will be. Being open to a range of weekends, or even considering non-Saturday options, opens up more possibilities and reduces stress. And it gives you a better shot at working with vendors you’re excited about.

So, instead of chasing the “perfect” date, focus on what’s most important to you. That clarity will help everything else fall into place.

Final Thoughts on How to Choose a Wedding Date

Choosing a wedding date is one of the first major steps in your planning journey. Start with the season and your lifestyle, check in with your key people, and stay flexible when booking vendors. That’s how you find a date that truly works for you.

Want more planning tips or help choosing your Colorado venue? I’m always happy to point you in the right direction.

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