Time of day and day of the week
Typically throughout the U.S., the most popular day of the week to have a wedding is Saturday. If you choose a Saturday to get married, you will have to compete with many more brides than if you choose a Friday evening or a Sunday. Weekdays will be even more open. Some bridal businesses offer discounts for non-traditional days. For example, bands and DJ's will often accept work on Friday night or Sunday and give you a discount at the same time.

Time of day is also important. If your budget is very tight, consider having your wedding in the morning or the afternoon instead of the evening. Food is the largest expense for more wedding receptions and dinner is the most expensive meal to serve. A late morning brunch, an afternoon tea reception or even a cake and punch reception may save considerable money.

Time of year
If you plan on having a holiday reception (such as Christmas or New Years), you should also plan on higher expenses. For example, flowers are more costly during December because of high demand and limited availability. Caterers are also busy with corporate parties at this time of year, as are bands and DJ's. As a result, prices are higher than at other times of the year. Other holidays such as Memorial Day, Valentine's Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving weekend may be similarly more expensive.