Certain months of the year are very popular for weddings- as anyone who has multiple friends getting married in the same year knows only too well. May, June, July and August come out on top and April, September and October aren’t too far behind. However, November through March are not considered desirable, except maybe that special day for lovers in February, and, of course, February 29th when it falls in a leap year.
What is behind this preference? Probably the desire for good weather, outdoor venues, and not getting married too close to Christmas, Hanukah or other significant family and/or religious holidays so guests would have trouble attending. However, there is also that seemingly basic desire to be like other people- and plan a wedding that is out of Bride’s magazine. Ever see one in there that is held on a gloomy winter day or at Christmas time?
A newer trend is that of couples wanting to be married on significantly NUMERICAL days. For instance, dates like 10/10/10 or 11/11/11. Then there are the dates that have a unique sequence like 10/11/12, 12/13/14 and so on. If you were to ask someone why one of these days was chosen they would probably say because it will bring them luck or that it will be easy to remember (for the groom) or perhaps just that it will be unique and stand out in a crowded field of brides and grooms.
Those who seek out such dates are often a unique bunch themselves. They strive to be different and like that their day doesn’t belong to too many others. As a therapist who works with many couples, I have learned that when we marry and how expensive or elaborate our planning is, has no impact on the health or longevity of the union. Elopements often lead to long-term, happy marriages. Elaborate and expensive weddings can fail at alarmingly fast rates- think Kim and Chris. In my practice, I have had many new brides and grooms calling me to discuss their big mistake- only a few short months after their wedding of the year.
So, pick your unique date and have fun with it. Just know that it will not bring you luck or make your marriage special in any way. That is all up to you and your spouse and the decisions you made all along the way from that first hello to reciting your vows.
