Are you a Seattle local and planning your upcoming nuptials? If that is you – this week’s read is for you. We’ve been wedding planners in the PNW industry for almost two decades. We’ve coordinated and planned our fair share of weddings and quite often these weddings are in the summer months. Summer wedding seasons are the selected timeframe for many couples. The rain subsides, the sun is out, and the temperatures begin to rise. Many of our venues’ calendars become quickly booked for the summer season, so we’re here to share how to select and ensure you get your wedding date during Seattle’s summer season. 

#01: Location, Location, Location 

Just as if you were shopping for a home in Seattle, location plays a huge factor. Many Seattle or PNW residents drive miles and sometimes up to two hours to commute for their job. There was even a time where I got up three hours before work to commute from the peninsula to Burien. Fact of the matter is we rent or purchase our home due to the location. Much like the selection of your home, your venue is often selected for the location. There are many beautiful and timeless wedding locations across the Puget Sound. As you think about your wedding, selecting your ideal location should be the foundation of your decisions. Brainstorm the location that you envision for your big day! Do you want a wedding right on the sound – if so, hosting an intimate affair at a restaurant patio may be an excellent option. Or if you’re a fan city living, checking out a venue in the SoHo Industrial district may be the way to go! The selection of your location will determine the timeframe in the summer, what time day is best to hold your ceremony and reception, and what to expect for your guests. Before you select a date, choose your location. 

#02: Select Three Venues

As you tour potential venues, scale down your choices to three potential venues. We want you to keep an open mind and to keep your options open. We will be completely honest in saying that many venues are completely booked the year before, especially for weekend dates. You may want to look at any other events going on during that weekend, especially if your venue is downtown. Check out upcoming concerts, Mariners games, or events that may impact costs of hotels and travel. Also, check out the venue's social media and reviews during the timeframe. There may be reviews that will be helpful with selecting your perfect venue. 

#03: Choose a Timeframe 

After you’ve narrowed down your potential venues, select a timeframe. We suggest selecting one to three dates that you’d like to book your wedding. If you’re booking more than a year out, there may be more potential openings. If you’re booking your wedding with a shorter planning timeframe, you may need to be open to weekday or Sunday weddings. Often, venues that are completely booked on Saturdays may have other options available. In addition, you will want to look at the weather patterns during this time frame. If you’re viewing venues that are outdoors and do not offer any shade or indoor facilities, you want to determine what the weather will be like. You don’t want the date selected to not have any amenities for your guests if the weather is scolding hot. 

#04: Get your Quotes

Before you begin this process, our greatest suggestion is to have your venue budget set. You want to know your budget and only view venues that are within your budget. Meet with your three venue coordinators and your planner to discuss the proposal for renting the venue. Discuss and review all the quotes before making your decision. Ensure that you determine whether or not your venue includes your rentals and options for a plan B, such as a tented or indoor ceremony and reception. 

#05: Make your Selection: 

Once you’ve explored your options, determined the best time frame, and discussed your budget, select your option. We recommend before you book your check in with your loved ones and wedding party to make sure that this potential date does not have any big concerns. Then, meet with the venue and read your contract prior to signing. 

Summer weddings are truly magical in Seattle. There is nothing like a sunset ceremony and dancing the night away under the summer stars. We highly suggest if you plan on tying the knot during the summer months to plan far enough in advance. As you explore your options, think about your ideal location for your ceremony and reception. Visit and view as many venues as you’d like, but narrow it down to at least three final options. Then, explore potential dates that will work for you, your fiance, and your guests. Once you select the venue that supports your location and date – be sure you don’t bust the budget by singing on the line! If you need additional support with finding your perfect venue, we’d love to help you find your match. 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.