We were surprised to read data from a market research body recently that suggested the average UK couple take between 6-12 months to plan their wedding.
Is it just us, or does that seem a short length of time by comparison to what we see, read and experience?
When we speak to couples at wedding fairs, looking to hire our 360 photo booth, we usually find that their wedding day is at least a year away, but more often than not it is 18-24 months away.
What do those in the know advise is the best wedding planning time?
You only need to read one or two of the main wedding websites (Hitched etc.) to discover that 2 years is often referred to as the 'recommended' length of time to plan a wedding.
However, not every couple are the same.
It's all well and good to say that you should allow 2 years, but what constitutes an 'average' couple and what about the couples that plan a small wedding? They're not going to need 18-24 months.
How far in advance do the most popular wedding venues book out?
You also have to consider the availability of your preferred wedding venue. It is very common for venues to book at least 2 years in advance, if not more.
We can't be the only ones that see brides in Facebook groups talking about dates that are 3 years away (and we recently saw one planning a 2028 wedding).
The time of year that you choose to get married is also going to be factored into the length of planning. If you're adamant that you're going to get married at THAT wedding venue, then you're going to find that a lot of other couples had the same thought for their July/August wedding and beat you to the date!
Move that date to January though and it's a very different story - and a very different price!
Photographers and entertainment services book in advance too
We know this for certain. We take bookings up to 3 years in advance - and 2 years is very common. Wedding photographers are exactly the same, they receive bookings a long time ahead of a wedding and if you've seen a photographer that you want for your big day then our recommendation is to speak to them as soon as possible.
Magicians and caterers are much the same, particularly the latter. If your chosen venue isn't providing the catering, you'll sometimes find that caterers have limited availability if you're planning a wedding date within 12 months.
How far in advance are you planning your wedding?
We'd be interested to hear from you, in the comments, and find out how far in advance you're planning your wedding. If you're already married, let us know how much time you took to organise the big day!
