How to Plan a Friday or Sunday Wedding to Save Money
Saturday weddings are the traditional choice, but they're also the most expensive option. Savvy Austin couples are discovering that Friday and Sunday weddings offer significant savings without compromising on celebration. With strategic planning, you can have the wedding of your dreams while keeping thousands of dollars in your pocket.
At Party On Delivery, we help budget-conscious couples with affordable beverage delivery any day of the week. Here's your guide to off-peak wedding savings.
The Real Savings
| Vendor Category | Saturday Price | Friday/Sunday | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venue | $8,000 | $5,000-6,000 | $2,000-3,000 |
| Photography | $4,500 | $3,500-4,000 | $500-1,000 |
| DJ/Band | $2,500 | $1,800-2,000 | $500-700 |
| Catering | $10,000 | $8,500-9,000 | $1,000-1,500 |
Total Potential Savings: $4,000-6,200
Friday Weddings
Advantages
Why Friday weddings work:
- Lower venue rates: Most venues offer 20-40% off Friday pricing
- Better vendor availability: Less competition for top vendors
- Extended celebration: Guests can celebrate into Saturday
- Weekend vibes: Still feels like a weekend event
- Flight options: Often cheaper than Saturday arrivals
Planning Considerations
Make Friday work for your guests:
- Start time: 5:00-6:00 PM works best after work
- Local guests: Easier commitment than travel
- Out-of-town guests: May need to take Friday off
- Rehearsal dinner: Move to Thursday evening
- After-party: Plan Saturday morning brunch
Best Friday Timing
| Style | Ceremony | Reception | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cocktail Evening | 6:00 PM | 7:00-11:00 PM | Professional crowd |
| Sunset Ceremony | 5:30 PM | 6:30-11:00 PM | Outdoor venues |
| Late Night | 7:00 PM | 8:00 PM-midnight | Party atmosphere |
Sunday Weddings
Advantages
Why Sunday weddings shine:
- Brunch potential: Daytime celebrations are unique
- Lower costs: Often 15-30% less than Saturday
- Relaxed atmosphere: Less rushed feeling
- Available dates: More options at popular venues
- Weekend rates: Often included in "weekend" pricing
Planning Considerations
Making Sunday successful:
- Start earlier: Afternoon ceremonies work well
- Travel time: End early for guests with Monday commitments
- Brunch menu: Can reduce catering costs significantly
- Alcohol timing: Day drinking feels more casual
- Energy level: Guests may be more relaxed
Sunday Timeline Options
| Style | Ceremony | Reception | End Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brunch Wedding | 10:30 AM | 11:30 AM-3:00 PM | 3:00 PM |
| Afternoon Tea | 2:00 PM | 3:00-7:00 PM | 7:00 PM |
| Early Evening | 4:00 PM | 5:00-9:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
Guest Communication
Setting Expectations
Help guests plan:
- Save the date early: 8-12 months for out-of-town guests
- Travel information: Include flight and hotel options
- Timing clarity: Be specific about ceremony and end time
- Work considerations: Acknowledge the day choice graciously
Sample Invitation Language
Friday: "Join us for a Friday evening celebration as we begin our weekend of love"
Sunday: "We invite you to our Sunday afternoon celebration, a relaxed gathering with those we love most"
Negotiating Vendor Discounts
What to Ask
When inquiring about off-peak pricing:
- "Do you offer Friday or Sunday discounts?"
- "What's your pricing for non-Saturday dates?"
- "Are there additional savings for specific months?"
- "Can we negotiate a package for off-peak dates?"
Vendors Most Likely to Discount
- Venues: Biggest savings potential (20-40% off)
- Photographers: Often flexible (10-25% off)
- DJs: Usually available at lower rates
- Florists: Same pricing but more availability
- Caterers: Some offer brunch pricing advantages
Managing Guest Attendance
Potential Challenges
Be prepared for:
- Lower RSVP rate: 5-10% fewer guests possible
- Travel complications: Some guests may decline
- Work conflicts: Especially for Friday weddings
- Family expectations: Traditional family may question choice
Solutions
- A-list only: Smaller guest list means higher acceptance
- Local emphasis: Focus on guests who live nearby
- Weekend welcome: Host additional events around the wedding
- Clear communication: Explain your reasoning to close family
Budget Reallocation Ideas
Where to Invest Savings
Put your savings toward:
- Photography upgrades: Album, extra hours, second shooter
- Elevated food: Better menu or open bar upgrade
- Guest experience: Welcome bags, transportation
- Honeymoon fund: Start marriage without debt
- Florals: Splurge on statement arrangements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will guests judge us for a Friday or Sunday wedding?
A: Most guests appreciate the savings being passed along through better food, drinks, or overall experience. Modern couples regularly choose off-peak dates, and it's increasingly common.
Q: How much notice should we give for a Friday wedding?
A: Send save-the-dates 10-12 months ahead for Friday weddings to give guests time to request time off work if needed.
Q: Can we still have a traditional evening reception on Sunday?
A: Yes, but keep your guests' Monday commitments in mind. An earlier end time (8-9 PM) shows consideration while still allowing celebration.
Q: Does Party On Delivery offer the same pricing any day of the week?
A: Yes! Our delivery prices remain consistent regardless of your wedding day. We deliver Friday through Sunday with the same great service.
Smart Savings Without Sacrifice
A Friday or Sunday wedding isn't settling for less. It's a strategic choice that lets you invest in what matters most while celebrating with the people you love.
Party On Delivery helps you maximize your bar budget with premium delivery at fair prices. Order for your off-peak wedding and toast to smart planning.
This article is part of our comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Austin Wedding. Also explore: Hill Country Wedding in Six Months | All-Inclusive Venues | Small Wedding Venues
Allan Henslee
Founder & CEO of Party On Delivery, helping Austin celebrate in style since 2023.