This post was contributed by Tonya Pellegrini of Pellegrini Events, which plans and manages quality events in Saratoga, from weddings and gala dinners to corporate and social functions.

It’s undeniable that there are a certain amount of conveniences that come with having a wedding during a holiday weekend – your family and friends may already be in town, for example – but there are generally two sets of opinions related to this practice: some people love it and others think it’s downright rude.

Holidays with an extended weekend like Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve lend themselves to lots of fun activities and an extra day of recovery or travel time for out-of-town guests. All of these are very hot dates for weddings, though, and as a planner, I know these dates book very quickly.

bride and groom holding champagne

Before you start planning your holiday weekend wedding in Saratoga, there are some things you should consider for yourself and your guests:

The Vendors

Some vendors have higher rates over holidays, especially on Saturdays. If your budget doesn’t allow for this, you may want to look at a Friday or Sunday wedding date.

Travel Expenses & Timelines

Since travel is at peak during most holiday weekends, airfare and hotel rates increase. Be sure to give your guests plenty of time to book their travel and request time off from work.

Activities & Events

If you are planning activities for your guests, make it clear that they don’t have to attend everything, and give them other suggestions for things to do in the area. Some people won’t want to spend their entire long weekend with you, and they may want to get out on their own.

There are often community events during such weekends, especially in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding Capital Region. Be sure to research the area where your wedding is for events such as parades, festivals, and fireworks; they may compete with your ceremony time and clog traffic patterns to your venue, so it’s important to anticipate this.

Guests With & Without Children

A wedding that is not welcoming children may deter some guests since holiday weekends are generally considered family weekends. On the flip side, it’s possible that you may get more RSVP’s than expected since the guests can roll your wedding weekend into a mini-vacation.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is a great night for a wedding, but if you go that route, go BIG. It is, after all, NEW YEAR’S EVE! It could be an epic party, with New Year’s Eve inspired décor, special cocktails, and attire.

When planning a New Year’s Eve wedding I recommend a later start time so you can ring in the New Year during your reception.

Don’t forget fireworks! Check with your venue to ensure this an option.