Here's What You Need to Know About Throwing a Thanksgiving Weekend Wedding

Although it sounds like a great idea, there are a lot of factors to keep in mind.

By Sara Dickinson November 09, 2018

Thinking about tying the knot the weekend following Thanksgiving? If you're looking to planning a family-oriented fall wedding, you've selected the right date. Even so, there are some major factors you'll need to think about. First and foremost, remember that the days before and after Thanksgiving are some of travel dates of the year, so tying the knot immediately after this holiday requires careful logistical planning. To better understand, we asked some of our favorite planners to share their professional insight.

Your Guest List Will Likely Shrink

If your wedding is taking place the weekend immediately following Thanksgiving, don't be surprised if you receive a number of negative RSVPs from your guests. "Most people will have long-standing holiday traditions they will be reluctant, or even resentful, to skip in favor of your wedding," planner Laurie Arons explains. While that's not to say that they don't want to share in your big day, breaking holiday traditions may not be feasible.

It's an Expensive Weekend to Be a Guest

Anyone who travels regularly for this holidays knows that Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest times at an airport, which means flight prices often skyrocket. If anyone needs to travel to attend your big day, their airline ticket alone might put a major dent in their budget. Similarly, hotels book quickly or have higher rates during this busy time of the year.

It Will Cost You

The holiday season doesn't just cost your guests, it costs you as a couple. Arons says, "Vendors like venues, florists, rental companies, and caterers will most likely charge 1.5 to 2 times their normal cost because they will be required to give their staff holiday pay."

It Can Be Hard to Contact Your Team

Alicia Fritz of A Day In May Events says it can be tough to talk to your team during the holidays, so she offers a key tip. "If you're planning a wedding over any holiday week or weekend, be sure to obtain direct points of contact for all vendors. They may be celebrating with their family and friends instead of keeping regular office hours," she says.

Keep the Party Small

If you decide to go ahead and plan a Thanksgiving wedding, planner Beth Helmstetter advises making this a smaller affair. "The best approach is to keep it intimate and family focused. Inviting the guests that you would likely see over the holiday weekend either way will ensure the guests invited are fully committed and present for your day," she says.