Friday, Sunday or weekday wedding: the real savings
Why off-peak dates are cheaper, which days work best, what a weekday asks of your guests, and how to give them enough notice that it still feels generous.
The short version
- Venues and many vendors charge less for Fridays, Sundays and weekdays, because Saturdays are where demand is.
- The saving is real; the cost moves to your guests, who may need time off.
- Friday evenings and Sundays before a public holiday are the easiest off-peak dates for guests.
- Give extra notice: send save the dates early, and say on them that it is a weekday.
Venues and vendors usually charge less for Fridays, Sundays and weekdays because almost everyone wants a Saturday. The saving can be large, and it is one of the few budget cuts nobody sees on the day. What changes is who pays: on a weekday, some of the cost moves to your guests, in the form of time off work.
Which off-peak day is best?
- Friday evening: most guests can leave work a little early, and Saturday is free to recover
- Sunday before a public holiday Monday: a near-Saturday with lower prices
- Sunday: cheaper, but guests travel home the same night or take Monday off
- Midweek: the cheapest, best for small weddings, destination weddings and couples whose guests are flexible
What does it cost your guests?
A weekday wedding asks guests to use a day of leave, arrange childcare or travel on a work night. Some will not be able to come, especially those with jobs that cannot move. If certain people are essential to you, ask them before you book the date.
How do you make a weekday wedding easy to attend?
- Send save the dates early, and say clearly that it is a weekday
- Start later in the afternoon, so guests can work the morning
- Choose a venue that is easy to reach after work, or near hotels
- Keep the evening a sensible length for people who work tomorrow
- Put the full schedule on the invitation so guests can plan their day
How much can you save?
It depends on the venue and the season. Ask every venue for its price on a Saturday and on the off-peak days you would consider, in writing, and compare. Then ask your photographer, caterer and band; some offer off-peak rates, some do not. A budget that holds each quote as a line shows you the real difference rather than the headline one.
A weekday wedding saves you money by spending a little of your guests' time. Spend it carefully, and tell them early.
Common questions
Is a Friday or Sunday wedding cheaper?
Usually, yes. Venues and many vendors charge less for Fridays, Sundays and weekdays because demand is highest on Saturdays. Ask each venue for written prices on each day you would consider.
Is it rude to have a weekday wedding?
No, but it asks more of guests, who may need to take time off. Give extra notice, start later in the day and make the venue easy to reach.
Which day is best for an off-peak wedding?
Friday evening or a Sunday before a public holiday are the easiest for guests. Midweek is cheapest and suits small or destination weddings.
Plan it all in one place
A seating chart, a budget and a checklist that follow your guests' replies, alongside your invitation.
Start planning free →
