November has long been considered an off-peak month for weddings, with many couples opting for more popular months like June and September.
However, there are unique advantages to choosing November as the month to tie the knot.
This article will explore the reasons behind November’s lesser popularity for weddings, the benefits of getting married during this time, and how this month compares to other wedding seasons.
One might assume that the colder weather and shorter days are the main factors contributing to November’s status as a less popular wedding month.
However, there are plenty of other considerations at play, including seasonal trends and overall marriage statistics.
Those who decide to get married in November can reap the rewards of a less crowded wedding season, including potentially lower costs and greater availability for vendors and venues.
By comparing weddings across different seasons and taking into account recent marriage trends and statistics, we can gain a deeper understanding of what drives couples to choose November or other months for their big day.
This information can be helpful for couples currently planning their wedding and considering which month best suits their preferences, budget, and overall vision for their event.
- Key Takeaways
- Why November is Less Popular for Weddings
- Holiday Season
- Weather Concerns
- Benefits of Getting Married in November
- Cost Advantages
- Venue and Vendor Availability
- Unique Seasonal Themes
- Fall Wedding Inspiration
- Comparing Across Seasons
- Popular Wedding Months
- Pros and Cons of Each Season
- Springtime
- Summer
- Fall
- Winter
- Marriage Trends and Statistics
- Impact of Wedding Time on Divorce
- Cohabiting Before Marriage
- Final Considerations for Choosing a Wedding Date
- Personal Preferences
- Finances and Budget
- Guests’ Availability
Key Takeaways
- November is a less popular month for weddings due to various factors, including weather and seasonal trends.
- Couples who marry in November can benefit from lower costs and greater vendor availability.
- Understanding marriage trends and comparing wedding seasons is helpful for choosing the ideal wedding date.
Why November is Less Popular for Weddings

Holiday Season
One of the primary reasons why November is less popular for weddings is the holiday season.
As November marks the beginning of the holiday season with Thanksgiving and leads into December’s festivities, it can be a hectic time for many people.
This period often includes family gatherings, work commitments, and social events which can lead to schedule conflicts and guests being unable to attend the wedding.
The increased demand for event spaces and vendors during this season can make it difficult to secure desired venues and services, potentially leading to higher costs and less availability.
Weather Concerns
As this month typically falls within the transition from fall to winter, it can be uncertain and unpredictable in terms of temperature and precipitation.
Depending on the region, November may also be part of hurricane season, adding a layer of risk for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Cold or inclement weather during November can lead to logistical challenges for the wedding party and guests, such as travel disruptions, insufficient heating in venues, and the need for additional clothing or coverings for outdoor events.
Benefits of Getting Married in November
Cost Advantages
Getting married in November can have significant cost advantages, as it falls outside the traditional wedding season, which typically runs from May to October.
With fewer couples competing for venues and vendors, there is a higher likelihood of negotiating better prices, allowing for more budget-friendly wedding planning.
Venue and Vendor Availability
As November is considered an off-peak month for weddings, there is usually greater availability of venues and vendors.
This means that couples have more options to choose from and can have an easier time booking their desired location or preferred photographer, caterer, or DJ.
With less competition, couples can take their time to make decisions and plan aspects of their wedding.
Unique Seasonal Themes
A November wedding offers a unique opportunity to incorporate seasonal elements into the celebration.
The natural fall foliage, with its vibrant colors, can serve as a beautiful backdrop for outdoor ceremonies or photographs.
Autumnal decor, such as pumpkins, apples, and asters, can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The temperate weather in November also allows for a more comfortable outdoor experience for guests, without concerns of extreme heat or cold.
Fall Wedding Inspiration
- Colors: Incorporate rich and warm colors like burgundy, burnt orange, and shades of brown into your color scheme, reflecting the hues of the season.
- Flowers: Use seasonal flowers like asters, dahlias, or chrysanthemums in your wedding bouquet and decorations.
- Menu: Embrace a fall-themed menu featuring apple or pumpkin-based dishes, warming soups, and hearty roasted vegetables.
- Favors: Provide guests with seasonal favorites like caramel apples, mulled cider mix, or pumpkin spice treats as wedding favors.
Comparing Across Seasons

Popular Wedding Months
Wedding months often vary depending on personal preferences and seasonal factors. However, some months tend to be more popular than others.
For instance, October has been consistently favored in recent years, with three of the most popular wedding dates in 2019 being celebrated in that month.
Summer months like June and September are also considered desirable for many couples, while May signifies the beginning of the wedding season in many places.
The spring months are particularly appealing for outdoor events and enjoy the vibrancy of nature.
Pros and Cons of Each Season
Each season has its pros and cons when deciding on a wedding date. Here’s a brief outlook on the different seasons:
Springtime
This season offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and a general renewal of life.
However, it can also be a more expensive time to schedule a wedding as it’s considered in-season. Additionally, unpredictable weather can be a challenge.
Summer
Known for warm weather and longer days, summer weddings can be perfect for outdoor celebrations.
The downside is the possibility of excessive heat and higher costs due to increased demand for venues and associated services.
Fall
Favored by many for its beautiful foliage and crisp air, fall weddings (particularly in October) provide a cozy atmosphere.
On the downside, the chances of unexpected poor weather increase, and in some places, costs can be as high as during the summer months.
Winter
Winter weddings often imply a romantic, snow-filled ambiance, and they’re generally more cost-effective due to the off-season status.
However, the holiday season can potentially conflict with the event and cold temperatures might discourage guests from attending.
Marriage Trends and Statistics
Impact of Wedding Time on Divorce
According to a survey by WeddingWire and The Knot, November and December see a lower demand for weddings compared to other popular wedding months like June and September.
One reason for this decline could be attributed to colder weather and a preference for holidays during this period.
January and March also experience lower demand for similar reasons.
Despite the lower demand, there is evidence that suggests a correlation between the month of marriage and the likelihood of divorce.
However, it is important to note that various factors impact the stability of a marriage, and the choice of the wedding month alone should not be considered a determinant of the success or failure of a relationship.
Cohabiting Before Marriage
Cohabitation, which refers to couples living together before marriage, has become increasingly common in recent years.
In fact, according to Pew Research Center, the share of adults living with an unmarried partner in the U.S. rose from 3% in 1995 to 7% in recent times.
This shift in cohabitation trends can be attributed to various factors, including societal and generational changes.
For many to-be-weds, cohabitation has become a natural stepping stone in their relationship before tying the knot.
Some advantages of cohabiting before marriage include testing compatibility, splitting living expenses, and having more time for making decisions about the future, such as having children.
While cohabitation rates continue to rise, the share of U.S. adults who are currently married has declined modestly.
According to the same Pew Research Center study, the percentage of adults who are married has dropped from 58% in 1995 to 53% today.
These statistics suggest that learning about one’s partner before marriage may affect the likelihood of getting married and staying together.
Final Considerations for Choosing a Wedding Date

Personal Preferences
When selecting a wedding date, personal preferences play a significant role. Couples might have specific seasons or dates in mind, such as the month they met or got engaged.
For some, November may hold sentimental value, making it an ideal time for their nuptials.
Also, bear in mind that most popular wedding months tend to be in the summer, such as August, when heat and vacations sometimes pose challenges.
Choosing November for a wedding can provide a welcome alternative to these more popular times.
Finances and Budget
Budget plays a crucial role in determining a wedding date. November is typically considered off-season for weddings in most countries, which translates to potential savings.
Couples may find better deals on venues, catering services, and accommodations due to a lower demand during this period.
This financial consideration makes November an attractive option for those working with limited budgets or looking to dedicate more resources to other aspects of their wedding.
Guests’ Availability
Ensuring the availability of guests is another critical factor when choosing a wedding date.
During the busy summer season, many guests might be unavailable due to previous engagements, vacations, or work obligations.
Hosting a wedding in November could alleviate scheduling conflicts and increase the likelihood of your loved ones attending the celebration.
However, it’s important to consider the potential conflicts associated with November, such as Thanksgiving in the United States, which may still impact guest attendance.