How To Plan A Sunday Wedding
In a world where Saturday weddings are in high demand, savvy couples are discovering the allure of Sunday celebrations. Here’s a surprising stat: Over 60% of weddings at The Felt Estate (and roughly 30% of weddings nationally) now take place on non-Saturday dates, and Sunday is leading the charge. But why the shift? It’s not just about availability—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience with some unexpected perks. If you’re planning your big day and dreaming of a destination wedding venue near Chicago or a Michigan wedding venue near Lake Michigan, let’s explore how to plan a Sunday wedding.
Convenience for Wedding Guests: Skip Monday
The Chapel at Shore Acres is part of the historic Felt Estate in Holland, Michigan located along the shore of Lake Michigan next to Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
Your wedding day is all about bringing loved ones together, and for many couples guest experience is a top priority. Initially, couples considering a wedding day other than Saturday might lean toward Friday. However, that choice often requires guests to take both Thursday and Friday off of work for travel and festivities—or even more time if they’re family or part of the wedding party. Choosing a Sunday over a Saturday wedding means guests get to take Monday off of work instead of Friday. Who wouldn’t want to skip Sunday scaries for a weekend?
Not to mention, arriving for your wedding day can be much more relaxing as well. Your friends and family can travel on Saturday, enjoy a relaxed evening, and wake up refreshed for your Sunday celebration. No rushed flights or hurried drives—just an enjoyable, stress-free arrival. These small changes for guests traveling to and from your destination wedding can make a world of difference.
Leverage Long Weekends for Extra Festivities
Federal and bank holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day can transform your Sunday wedding into a long weekend affair. Imagine this: a rehearsal dinner on Saturday, your wedding on Sunday, and a farewell brunch on Monday before wedding guests hit the road. It’s a mini-vacation for everyone involved.
Michigan wedding venues, especially those near Lake Michigan, are perfect for this kind of extended celebration. Wedding guests can spend Saturday exploring local wineries, relaxing by the water, or strolling through charming downtown areas like Saugatuck. By the time Sunday arrives, they’re already in vacation mode and ready to celebrate with you.
This is what we technically label a destination wedding. Most often, guests will need to take a day or two off of work, so you can rest easy making plans with that in mind." - Sunna Yassin, owner of Bash Please for Brides.com
Keep the Party Going Without a Workday Hangover
A common worry about Sunday weddings is that the party might fizzle out early. After all, people have to work on Monday, right? Not necessarily. When most of your guests are traveling from Chicago or other out-of-state locations, they’re likely taking Monday off anyway. That means your Sunday celebration can be just as lively and late-night as a Saturday wedding.
More Availability and Flexibility
Let’s talk logistics. Saturday weddings are in high demand, especially at sought-after locations like destination wedding venues near Chicago or Michigan wedding venues on Lake Michigan. Booking a Sunday wedding often means you’ll have more dates to choose from at your dream wedding venue and even a better shot at securing the best wedding vendors.
Additionally, Sunday weddings can help you maximize your budget. Throwing a Sunday afternoon garden party wedding celebration instead of a traditional evening soiree provides flexibility for extra design touches and luxurious amenities for guests - think craft signature cocktails, lush floral arrangements, or welcome bags full of local Michigan treats.
Newlywed’s first dance in the beautiful white wedding reception tent at The Felt Estate. Event design by Saugatuck wedding planner, Holden Michael Events. Chandelier floral design by Events by ICandy and centerpiece floral design by Back to the Fuchsia.
Create a Unique Experience
There’s something undeniably chic about doing things differently. A Sunday wedding feels thoughtful and intentional, breaking away from the traditional mold. It’s an opportunity to design a celebration that reflects your personality as a couple.
Want to host a chic garden party wedding with mimosas and gourmet hors d'oeuvres? A Sunday afternoon at a historic estate is the perfect backdrop. Prefer a sunset affair with golden-hour photos courtesy of the sunsetting over Lake Michigan? The flexibility of a Sunday schedule allows you to craft the timeline of your dreams.
Garden party cocktail hour signature drinks.
Guest Tips for a Seamless Sunday Wedding Celebration
While a Sunday wedding doesn’t differ greatly from a Saturday wedding in terms of experience or logistics, it’s important to consider your wedding guests’ experience from start to finish. Here are a few actionable tips to make your day unforgettable for everyone:
Communicate Early: Let your guests know the date and location as soon as possible. Include travel tips and local accommodation options, especially if you’re hosting at a destination wedding venue near Chicago or a Michigan wedding venue.
Provide a Welcome Itinerary: Help guests make the most of their weekend by including a list of activities or local attractions. For a Lake Michigan wedding, consider recommending beach outings at Oval Beach, hiking trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park, or wine tastings at local Michigan wineries. Need a little inspiration? Check with your wedding venue or the local visitors bureau for great recommendations!
Plan Transportation: Make it easy for guests to get to and from your venue. Whether it’s a shuttle service, taxi service phone numbers, or clear directions, ensuring seamless logistics goes a long way in enhancing their experience.
Consider Late Check-Outs: Partner with nearby hotels to arrange hotel blocks with late check-out options for your guests. This small gesture will make their Monday morning much more relaxed.
Why Michigan Wedding Venues Shine on Sundays
There’s no denying the charm of Michigan wedding venues, especially those nestled along Lake Michigan. These locations, like The Felt Estate, offer breathtaking views, serene settings, and a touch of timeless elegance. Hosting a Sunday wedding here means your guests can enjoy a full weekend getaway while you exchange vows against a backdrop of sparkling waters and golden sunsets.
Many venues also boast unique amenities that elevate the experience. Picture a garden wedding ceremony, followed by a reception under a beautiful, white reception tent with scenic views. Or imagine a historic mansion that exudes old-world charm, providing endless opportunities for stunning photographs. With a Sunday wedding, you’ll have the time and space to fully enjoy these features without feeling rushed.
Plus, Michigan venues often excel in creating intimate, personalized experiences. Whether it’s a historic mansion, a little white wedding chapel ceremony, or dancing under the stars, these spaces are designed to make your day extraordinary.
Sunset photos at the Chapel at Shore Acres on the historic Felt Estate along Lake Michigan.
A Sunday wedding is more than just an alternative to Saturday—it’s a chance to redefine the wedding experience. From guest convenience to extended celebrations, the benefits are undeniable. And when paired with a stunning destination wedding venue near Chicago or a Michigan wedding venue on Lake Michigan, your Sunday wedding is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, embrace the unexpected. Break away from tradition. Your perfect Sunday celebration awaits. Whether you’re dreaming of a chic afternoon garden party or a glamorous evening soiree, the flexibility and charm of a Sunday wedding make it a thoughtful and unique choice. And as you dance the night away, surrounded by loved ones, you’ll know you’ve created a day that’s as unforgettable as your love story.
Photography Credit: Neri Photo
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