When it comes to choosing a wedding date, holiday weekends like Labor Day and Memorial Day often seem like a golden opportunity. Built-in vacation time, travel convenience, and the chance to stretch the celebration over several days make these weekends appealing for couples dreaming of an unforgettable wedding experience. But are they really the perfect choice? Washington vendors weigh in on what couples should consider before committing to a holiday “I do.”
The Perks: Built-In Celebration Vibes & More Time with Loved Ones
One of the biggest advantages of a holiday weekend wedding is time - extra time for guests to travel, and more time for couples to connect with their favorite people.
“Holiday weekend weddings like those over Memorial Day or Labor Day weekends are growing in popularity, and for good reason,” says Tanya Kertland, Director of Catering & Events at The Golf Club at Newcastle. “These extended weekends give guests extra time to travel, celebrate, and recover without having to take additional days off work. For couples, this means more time to connect with loved ones beyond just the big day.
A long weekend often encourages couples to think beyond the wedding itself from welcome receptions to farewell brunches and even post-wedding outings.
“Even if you’re hosting a local wedding,” adds Angela Conti, Wedding Sales Manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport, “guests are often thrilled to have an even bigger reason to celebrate with a staycation all weekend long with you.”
The Pitfalls: Guest Conflicts, Travel Costs & Booking Challenges
Of course, the extended timeline doesn’t come without its challenges. Holiday weekends often come with family traditions, annual getaways, or budget concerns that may make attendance tricky for some.
“Holiday weekend weddings can be unforgettable - but they’re not a perfect fit for everyone,” says Madison Henrie of the Seattle Wedding Show. “If you’re after a high-energy celebration with guests flying in from all over, it might be a win. Just know the tradeoff: long-standing traditions and packed calendars may keep some loved ones away. If you go this route, give early notice - and don’t take declines personally.”
Logistics can also be more complex. Hotel rates are often higher, popular venues book out fast, and travel can be more expensive. Dana McKenzie, Assistant Director of Marketing at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport, notes: “Some perks to having your wedding on a holiday weekend is your guests will get to make a weekend of it. One of the pitfalls is you may have difficulty finding accommodations if your wedding is in a remote place or somewhere popular for holiday weekends - so plan ahead!”
Final Thoughts: Is a Holiday Weekend Right for You?
If you’re envisioning a wedding weekend that’s more like a mini-vacation for your guests, with extra time for memory-making and multiple moments of connection, a holiday weekend wedding might be a perfect fit. Just be sure to start planning early, be mindful of guest budgets and travel needs, and make your intentions clear with ample notice.
As Dana McKenzie puts it: “Most people are looking for something to do on a holiday weekend - and what better way than to attend a wedding? Double points if it’s a destination!”
With the right preparation, a holiday weekend celebration can offer more than just a wedding day - it can deliver an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Photo Cred: Blue Rose Photography, courtesy of The Golf Club at Newcastle
