One of the first decisions you'll have to make as a newly engaged couple is your wedding date. You can't start booking vendors without it, so you and your spouse-to-be have a big question to answer: Do you fast-track your wedding plans or go for a long engagement?
According to Brides.com, the average American couple is engaged for 12 to 18 months before they tie the knot. Some couples only wait a few months to get married, while others extend their engagement to two years or longer. There's no right or wrong answer; it all depends on what you and your fiance want for your big day.
The case for a long engagement
That being said, there are a few distinct advantages to a long engagement. After all, there's no need to rush the wedding -- you two will have the rest of your lives together! Even if you want to get legally married right away, you can still take your time planning the perfect reception for your family and friends. Here are some good reasons to consider stretching out your wedding plans.
1. You can take your time on the big, important decisions.
When you're on a time crunch, you may end up rushing big decisions and settling for a location, vendor, or dress you're not completely in love with. With a long engagement, you'll have plenty of time to research and visit venues, and interview vendors for your big day.
2. You can book your vendors early.
Popular wedding vendors, including venues, photographers, videographers, and DJs, often book up over a year in advance. If you have your heart set on a particular place or service provider, setting a date far in advance means there's a better chance your dream vendor is available for your wedding.
It's also important to note that wedding vendors and banquet halls may raise their prices year after year. Booking early means you'll lock in their current rates and get the best deal possible.
3. You'll have more control over your wedding budget.
Another financial advantage of a long engagement? You can better manage your wedding budget. All the little expenses, like decorations, wedding party gifts, and hotel gift bags, can add up quickly. The further in advance you set your wedding date, the more time you'll have to save up for the things you really want.
When you're able to spread out your payments, you may also find that you have room in the budget for those "nice to have" elements you weren't sure you could afford when you first got engaged. You can set aside money each month so that as your wedding gets closer, you can go back to your vendors and request that fancy dessert station, photo booth, or lighting upgrade.
4. You can take the time to truly enjoy your engagement.
There are so many exciting events that happen during a couple's engagement. Instead of trying to cram an engagement party, a bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette weekends, and the wedding day into a single year, you can spread them out and make the wedding excitement last all the way up to your big day. Perhaps more importantly, a long engagement means you and your fiance will have plenty of time to appreciate each other, strengthen your relationship, and figure out your plans for married life.
We're here to support you throughout your entire wedding planning process, no matter what your timeline is.
Couples have booked Hurricane Productions anywhere from a few weeks to a few years before their wedding day. Whether you choose a short or long engagement, we are here to make your wedding planning process as smooth as possible.
When you book one of our all-inclusive wedding packages, our full-time support staff can help you create the wedding you've always envisioned. You'll also receive access to our convenient online planning portal, where you can fill in your wedding details, plan your timeline, request music, and make payments on your own schedule.
Ready to book your wedding entertainment, photography, and videography? Fill out this short form or contact us directly to get a quote and confirm our availability for your date.
