Spring vs. Summer Weddings: The Pros & Cons of Each

by | May 23, 2022 | Weddings

silver heels surrounded by pink and purple flowers

Spring and summer are the most popular times of the year for weddings, with May being the unofficial start to what those in the business call wedding season. There are many great things about weddings in both seasons, but there are some downsides to each as well. In order to choose between a spring or summer wedding, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of both.

Spring

Pros:

  • The flowers and greenery are in peak bloom, so you have a wide variety to choose from for your bouquets and decorations.
  • Guests typically have less conflicts because vacations tend to happen in the summer, which means more “yes” responses on RSVPs.
  • Blooming flowers and trees make the perfect romantic backdrop for photos.
  • You have options for your wedding gown, as you shouldn’t get too warm in long sleeves, but not too cold in short sleeves either.

Cons:

  • Because spring is a popular season, your preferred vendors may be booked or will have raised prices.
  • The weather is unpredictable, especially in Minnesota, and it’s not uncommon for us to get snow in April. If you want an outdoor ceremony, you’ll want to have your wedding in later spring or early summer.
  • Spring allergies can affect guests and even the wedding party, making for irritated eyes and runny noses that can ruin pictures.
  • The grass in spring is often dead and muddy until late spring, which doesn’t make a great background for photos if you were to have your wedding in April, for example.

Summer

Pros:

  • You won’t have to worry about guests getting chilly during the ceremony or reception if either are outdoors.
  • Summer nights are warmer than spring, so you can have outdoor activities for guests in the evening and not worry about the temperature.
  • You’ll have ample sunlight and will be able to take sunset photos during your reception.
  • All slush and dead grass will be gone by summer, so you’ll have a lovely backdrop of bright green trees, grass, and bushes for your photos.

Cons:

  • You may not have as many “yes” responses from invitations since summer is a popular time for vacations.
  • Your dress choice will have to take the heat into account. Even if you’re only outside for pictures, you can get hot and sweaty pretty quickly in long sleeves and heavy material.
  • If you have your wedding outdoors in the middle of the day, you could be dealing with intense heat and a bright sun.
  • Because the sun is more intense in the summer, the lighting may be harsh for your photos, and the photographer will have a lot more editing to do.

 

No matter the season, Stillwater Event Center will work with you to make sure your wedding day is everything you dreamt it would be. Call us to start planning your special day!