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In recent years, the idea of hosting a weekday wedding, especially on a Thursday, has become an increasingly popular option for couples seeking something a bit different. With the allure of cost savings, better venue availability, and the chance to make your wedding a little more intimate, Thursday weddings are carving out their own space in the Seattle wedding scene.
But is it the right choice for you?
In this post, we’ll dive into the key questions to consider when planning a Thursday wedding in Seattle, along with expert advice to help you decide.
Will Guests Actually Show Up for My Thursday Wedding?
One of the first concerns couples often have about a Thursday wedding is whether guests will be able to attend. In Seattle, where many locals work in tech and other flexible industries, it may not be as difficult to accommodate a weekday event as you think. Plus, the city’s fantastic public transportation system, including light rail and buses, makes commuting to venues easier for guests who may not want to drive after work.
To boost attendance, send out save-the-dates well in advance to give guests time to plan around their schedules. The team at 828 Planning and THE 101 recommends hosting your ceremony later in the evening, around 6:30 or 7:00pm, to give people time to leave work and still enjoy a full night of celebration. You could also consider hosting a post-wedding brunch over the weekend for any guests who couldn’t make the big day.
Are There Cost Savings with a Thursday Wedding?
Yes, and they can be significant! Opting for a Thursday wedding in Seattle often means access to lower venue rental rates, catering costs, and sometimes, even vendor fees. Popular venues like THE 101, which is often fully booked on weekends months in advance, are often more flexible with pricing on Thursdays. By avoiding peak weekend rates, you can allocate your budget to other special details, like live music or upgraded décor.
Beyond just the venue, Seattle’s renowned wedding vendors—photographers, florists, and DJs—are more likely to offer discounts for mid-week weddings since demand is lower. This means you can stretch your wedding budget further without compromising on quality.
How Does a Mid-Week Wedding Impact Planning and the Overall Timeline?
A mid-week wedding, such as a Thursday event, will naturally have some differences in planning and timeline compared to a weekend wedding. One key advantage is that you’re likely to have more vendor availability and flexibility. Your favorite photographer or band might already be booked for weekends but will be free mid-week.
You’ll want to plan your timeline carefully to accommodate guests’ work schedules. Consider sending out your invitations a bit earlier than usual and make sure to include clear, detailed information on timing and logistics. Venue managers in Seattle also suggest leaning into the relaxed vibe that weekday weddings naturally offer—perhaps hosting an after-party at a local bar or brewery for those guests who want to extend the celebration into the night.
How Can I Make a Thursday Wedding Feel Special?
Just because it’s a Thursday doesn’t mean your wedding can’t be a grand celebration! The unique timing actually gives you more opportunities to personalize the experience for your guests. Seattle has a wealth of creative, non-traditional venues and activities to offer, from rooftop cocktail hours with a view of the Space Needle to intimate gatherings in the city’s urban gardens or waterfront locations.
Additionally, consider incorporating local Seattle touches to make the day even more memorable. For instance, you could feature a menu filled with farm-to-table cuisine sourced from local markets, or offer a custom coffee bar for guests to enjoy Seattle’s famous brews. You could even organize a ferry ride for your wedding party, giving everyone a quintessential Seattle experience.
The Upside of a Thursday Wedding: Intimacy and Atmosphere
Weekday weddings often have a more intimate, laid-back atmosphere than their weekend counterparts. If you’re looking to create a relaxed yet elegant vibe for your celebration, a Thursday event could be the perfect fit. Many venues, including THE 101, offer flexible spaces that can be transformed into cozy, personalized settings with less time pressure than a weekend event might allow.
Since weekday weddings tend to be smaller in size, you can also focus on creating meaningful moments with your closest friends and family, ensuring that your celebration feels more connected and intentional.
Ready to Say “I Do” to a Thursday Wedding?
If you’re still weighing the pros and cons of a Thursday wedding, consider the unique opportunities it offers—cost savings, flexibility, and a more personalized experience for both you and your guests. In a city as vibrant and diverse as Seattle, a mid-week wedding might just be the perfect way to stand out while keeping things affordable and stress-free.
Thinking of booking a Thursday wedding in Seattle? Reach out to THE 101 today to learn more about their stunning space and flexible mid-week wedding packages. Your dream wedding day might be closer than you think!
