A New Year’s Eve wedding is a fantastic way to tie the knot. It’s an event that already comes with built-in excitement, romance, and fun, making it an ideal choice for many couples.
Plus, from a practical standpoint, it’s a savvy date to get married on, as you’re more likely to catch out-of-town guests who are returning home for the holidays, most of your guests will already have the day (and the next day) off work, and everyone will be grateful to you for making their New Year’s Eve plans easier – especially those that don’t involve long bar queues and a frantic search for a taxi at 3am.
With this in mind, it’s no wonder why many couples are opting for a December 31st wedding. But, as with any wedding, it’s essential to be prepared. In our previous articles, we’ve covered unique ideas and favors for a New Year’s Eve celebration. Here, we’ll focus on the logistics of planning a wedding that takes place on this special day.
New Year’s Eve Wedding Must-Dos
Give Lots of Notice
When planning a Christmas wedding, it’s crucial to consider the timing and ensure that your guests have ample notice. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least six months’ notice, especially if you’re having a New Year’s Eve celebration. This allows people to make travel arrangements, book holidays, or adjust their social calendars well in advance.
By giving your guests sufficient notice, you can minimize the risk of anyone being unable to attend due to prior commitments, and create a more enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere for everyone involved.
Budget Extra
When planning a New Year’s Eve wedding, it’s essential to consider the potential extra costs associated with working on this festive day. Some suppliers may charge more for their services due to the unique demands and challenges of ringing in the new year. For instance, photographers, videographers, bands, DJs, and wedding planners will often be away from their loved ones and face longer drives home after completing their work.
Additionally, hotel room rates tend to increase significantly on New Year’s Eve, which can add up quickly if you’re booking accommodations for your wedding party.
Extend Your Bar
When planning your New Year’s Eve wedding, you likely envision an unforgettable celebration that lasts well into the morning hours. To ensure this happens, be sure to select a venue that offers a late-night bar option before making your final booking. While you may need to factor in additional costs for a bar extension, the payoff will be well worth it in terms of keeping the party alive and your guests fully entertained.
Consider adding some late-night snacks, such as sandwiches, to keep energy levels high and the merriment flowing.
Block Book Accommodation
When planning a New Year’s Eve wedding, it’s essential to consider the accommodation needs of your guests. Historically, they tend to be last-minute bookers, but on December 31st, hotels and guesthouses fill up rapidly, making it crucial to secure rooms well in advance. If your venue can accommodate all your guests, try to negotiate a block booking for as many rooms as possible. Alternatively, collaborate with a nearby hotel that accepts block bookings.
To encourage timely reservations, tactfully remind your guests via text messages or other means, emphasizing the importance of early booking. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure a smoother experience for your loved ones and minimize last-minute scrambles.
Consider a Bus
When planning your wedding transportation, consider the convenience of your out-of-town guests. If you’re expecting a large number of visitors from afar, especially if your ceremony and reception are in a city or near their homes, think about organizing transportation options for them to get back home safely. This could be as simple as having a taxi company on standby or hiring a minivan to make a few rounds.
By taking care of this logistical detail, you’ll show your appreciation for your guests’ efforts to attend and allow them to fully enjoy the rest of their celebration without worrying about how they’ll get back.
Create a Big Countdown
As the clock strikes midnight on your special day, it’s likely that time won’t be top of mind. However, making the most of this momentous occasion requires a little planning. Collaborate with your venue or enlist some trusted friends to organize a countdown to the start of the new year. It’s a great way to commemorate the milestone while still keeping the focus on your union.
To make it even more memorable, consider incorporating special touches like champagne toasts, sparkler displays, confetti drops, or even fireworks. Your entertainment team – whether that’s a band or DJ – can play a key role in announcing the countdown and selecting the perfect song to usher in the new year.
Consider the Weather
When planning an epic midnight countdown with friends and family, the weather should definitely be factored into your plans. Ideally, you’ll have a crisp winter night with clear skies, perfect for setting off fireworks and sparklers. However, it’s unlikely to be warm, so consider having a stash of cozy blankets or pashminas on hand to keep everyone snug and comfortable. That way, no one will have to sacrifice their fun in the cold.
