Need help deciding if you should have a short or long engagement? There are couples who believe that when you’ve found the one, why wait? You can get hitched in a week! While others prefer the longer preparations period. Most commonly, engagements tend to last between 12 to 16 months, which is seen as just the right amount of time to plan a wedding. But is this always true? The length of your engagement really depends on what works for you and what you’re comfortable with. There are pros and cons for both short and long engagements. Let’s break it all down right here. Keep reading!
If the length of the engagement falls below the 12-month mark, let’s say eight to ten months, it’s already considered short. Some couples find it unnecessary to wait, and make it possible to plan their weddings within three months time or even less.
Shorter Prep Time Means Faster Decision Making
When you’re on a time crunch, you don’t have any minute to spare being distracted. You’ll make decisions right away without second guessing. There’s no time to overthink! You’ll be more inclined to go with your first instinct.
You’ll Get Married Right Away
Since the pandemic, couples have come to accept the unexpected, so why risk delaying? You already know you want to spend the rest of your lives together, and you surely can’t wait to start your future together asap.
There Won’t Be a Dull Moment
Wedding planning will be quite a whirlwind. There’s always something to do everyday, which can keep the planning process exciting and the momentum consistently rising. You can dive right into putting together your invitations, shopping for your attire, and more. The adrenaline rush will pump you up!
Your First Choice Supplier Might Already Be Booked
Many suppliers, especially if they’re in-demand, get booked out up to a year in advance. So, be prepared with your second or third choice.
Anticipate Spending a Little More
A shorter prep time may also mean missing out on advanced booking discounts and seasonal sales and offers. If you’re asking a supplier to do a rush job, let’s say for your wedding dress, you can expect extra costs.
Guests Could Have Scheduling Conflicts
Much like your suppliers, giving your guests a shorter notice might make it difficult for them to save the date. Family and friends based abroad may not have enough time to book flights and airfare could also be higher.
Our Suggestion:
A shorter engagement could be for you if you plan on having a very intimate wedding or an elopement. Weddings that are more pared down typically require less preparation. If you’re keeping your wedding short, sweet, and simple then planning in only a few months is doable.
Being engaged for 12 months is already considered a long engagement. It can also be a longer period such as two to three years or more.
More Time to Save Money
If you’re targeting a certain amount or a higher budget for your wedding, a long engagement means more time to save and set aside money monthly. You won’t feel too much pressure to make payments right away because of the longer preparations time.
You Can Book Suppliers in Advance
You’ll have more chances to book your dream team and lock them in early. You can make sure no one else gets your slot!
Plan at Your Own Pace
Since the planning schedule is more flexible, there’s no need for you to rush. You’ll have more time to think about your decisions, especially if they cost a lot of money. You also have time to go on food taste tests, hair and makeup trials, venue oculars, and the like.
The Wedding Fatigue is Real
While your planning schedule is flexible, on the other hand, you’re also prolonging the work (and the stress). Preparing an event for this long really is tiring!
There’s Too Much Time to Change Your Mind
With the longer planning period, chances are you’ll become more distracted by new ideas or inspirations. You’ll keep finding new things to add or change. The decision making process will be a bit slower and complicated.
The Wait Can Be Too Long
It’s going to take a while before you say I do and get your life together officially started. If you’re not the patient type, then the wait might feel too long.
Our Suggestion:
A longer engagement may be better for you if you’re planning a grander wedding with more than 100 guests. Bigger weddings require more planning and proper management. You’ll need longer lead times especially if you want certain items customized, like your flowers and your attire.
What do you think, brides? Will you go for a long engagement or a short engagement? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!