If you just got engaged over Christmas or are planning a New Year’s Eve engagement, you should start looking for a Michigan wedding venue immediately. Most couples should book their wedding venue 12 to 18 months in advance, especially for peak wedding season dates. Popular destination wedding venues in Michigan, like Castle Farms in Charlevoix, often book even earlier due to high demand and limited availability.
Engagement season is officially here, and timing matters more than many couples realize.
Why Do So Many Couples Get Engaged Over the Holidays?
Christmas and New Year’s Eve are two of the most popular times of year to get engaged. Holiday proposals are emotional, meaningful, and often surrounded by family, which makes them unforgettable.
Because so many couples get engaged at the same time, January through March is one of the busiest periods for wedding planning. Venues are quickly filling up dates as newly engaged couples start booking tours.
How Does Engagement Season Affect Wedding Venue Availability in Michigan?
After the holidays, Michigan wedding venues experience a surge in inquiries. Couples who start planning early in the year have a major advantage.
Booking early helps couples:
- Secure peak season dates
- Choose preferred ceremony and reception spaces
- Avoid settling for less flexible options
- Lock in their ideal wedding vision
At destination venues like Castle Farms, popular summer and fall weekends often fill shortly after engagement season begins.
Peak vs Off-Peak Wedding Seasons in Michigan
Peak Wedding Season
Peak season in Michigan typically runs from May through October, with the highest demand in:
- June
- July
- August
- September
If you were just engaged over Christmas or New Year’s Eve and want a summer or fall wedding, booking 15 to 18 months ahead is strongly recommended.
Off-Peak Wedding Season
Off-peak season includes November through April.
Winter weddings offer more flexibility, but dates at sought-after venues like Castle Farms still book up quickly because of cozy indoor spaces and dramatic seasonal photos.
How Fast Does Castle Farms Book After Engagement Season?
Castle Farms is one of the most recognizable wedding venues in Northern Michigan, which means dates move quickly once engagement season begins.
Typical booking patterns include:
- Summer and fall Saturdays booking 12–18 months in advance
- Fridays and Sundays offer limited flexibility
- Winter dates are remaining popular due to indoor castle ballrooms
Couples who tour early in the year often secure their preferred dates before peak planning season is underway.
What Should Newly Engaged Couples Secure First?
Once engaged, your wedding venue should be your first priority.
After booking the venue, couples should quickly secure:
- Photographer
- Planner or coordinator
- Caterer
- Entertainment
- Guest accommodations
Booking early prevents stress and keeps planning enjoyable.
Wedding Planning Timeline for Newly Engaged Couples
Right After Engagement
- Choose a general wedding timeframe
- Research and tour venues
- Book your wedding venue
12–15 Months Before
- Secure photographer and planner
- Book catering and entertainment
- Reserve hotel room blocks
9–12 Months Before
- Send save-the-dates
- Finalize ceremony locations
- Begin guest weekend planning
6 Months Before
- Finalize décor vision
- Confirm vendor timelines
- Share wedding weekend details
Why Castle Farms Is Worth Booking Early
Castle Farms offers a rare combination of:
- Historic stone castle architecture
- Elegant indoor and outdoor spaces
- Destination appeal in Charlevoix
- A seamless planning experience
Because of this, Castle Farms books quickly once engagement season begins, making early inquiries essential.
FAQs About Booking a Wedding Venue After the Holidays
Is January too early to book a wedding venue?
No. January is one of the best times to book because availability is still strong.
How soon should I tour after getting engaged?
As soon as possible, especially for peak season dates.
Do New Year’s Eve engagements affect availability?
Yes. January often brings a surge in bookings.
Can I book before setting all the details?
Yes. Securing the venue early gives flexibility for the rest of the planning.
Is winter a good option if dates are limited?
Absolutely. Winter weddings offer unique beauty and flexibility.
Just Engaged? Now Is the Time to Book Your Venue
If you were just engaged over Christmas or are planning a New Year’s Eve proposal, now is the perfect time to start wedding planning. Booking your venue early gives you the best dates, the best options, and the smoothest experience.
Schedule a tour or inquire today to reserve your Castle Farms wedding date.