Day or Night Wedding: How to Choose?

Deciding the time of your wedding is one of the first and most important choices you'll make. It's not just about choosing between the sun and the stars; it's a decision that will influence the atmosphere, style, budget, and overall experience of your big day. If you find yourself at this crossroads, don't worry. It's completely normal to hesitate between the freshness of a daytime wedding and the magic of an evening celebration.

In this guide, we're going to explore all facets of both options together. We want you to feel accompanied and confident, as if you were chatting with an older sister who's already been through this. We'll break down the pros and cons, give you practical advice, and show you examples so that, in the end, the choice is much simpler and perfectly reflects who you are as a couple. Let's discover whether you're more of a sunrise or sunset couple!

The Light and Charm of Daytime Weddings

Daytime weddings have a fresh, relaxed, and energetic vibe. They're celebrated under natural light, creating a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere that many couples adore.

Advantages of a Daytime Wedding

• Natural light for spectacular photos: If you're a fan of bright and natural photography, a daytime wedding is your best ally. Sunlight makes colors pop and makes your wedding photos look like they're straight out of a magazine, without needing flash. Imagine your portraits with a lavender field in the Spanish Provence (Brihuega, Guadalajara) or with the blue of the Mediterranean in the background on the Costa Brava.
• More relaxed and informal atmosphere: Generally, daytime weddings invite a less strict dress code and a more laid-back atmosphere. They're perfect for outdoor ceremonies, elegant picnics, or garden parties.
• Budget savings: Celebrating during the day can be more economical. Many venues offer reduced rates for daytime events. Additionally, you can save on artificial lighting and certain menu aspects, like opting for a cocktail-lunch instead of a formal multi-course dinner.
• More time to enjoy: The party lasts longer! By starting earlier, you have the whole day ahead to celebrate with your loved ones. It's also an ideal option if there are many children among the guests, as they can enjoy the party without it getting too late.

Disadvantages to Consider

• Early rising is mandatory: Prepare for a very early wake-up. The hair, makeup, and pre-ceremony photo session will begin at dawn.
• Heat, a key factor: Especially in Spain during summer months (June to September), high temperatures can be a problem. If you're getting married in Andalusia, Extremadura, or inland areas, you'll need to find shaded locations, air conditioning, and offer solutions to keep your guests comfortable, like fans or hydration stations.
• Less "nighttime party" vibe: If you dream of a dance floor full of lights and people dancing until dawn, a daytime wedding might not fully meet that expectation. Although the party can extend, the atmosphere tends to be different.

The Elegance and Romance of Nighttime Weddings

An evening wedding evokes images of glamour, romance, and sophistication. The sunset gives way to a magical atmosphere, where lights, candles, and stars become the protagonists.

Advantages of a Nighttime Wedding

• Magical and romantic atmosphere: There's nothing like a dinner under the stars or a ceremony illuminated by hundreds of candles. The night creates an intimate and cozy setting, perfect for a celebration full of emotion.
• Elegance and glamour: Evening weddings are usually associated with a more formal dress code, like long dresses for her and tuxedos for him. It's the perfect opportunity for a gala wedding.
• Impactful visual effects: Darkness is a blank canvas for creativity. You can play with projections, string lights, fireworks, or light shows to surprise your guests and create unforgettable moments.
• Ideal for summer weddings: In hot locations like southern Spain, celebrating the wedding at sunset and into the evening is much more pleasant for everyone. The heat of the day gives way to a cool breeze that invites enjoying the outdoors.

Disadvantages to Consider

• Less celebration time: By starting later, the total celebration time is reduced, unless you plan a party that lasts until dawn.
• Higher costs: Evening weddings are usually more expensive. Venue rates and some vendor fees may be higher, and you'll need a larger budget for decorative lighting.
• Guest logistics: It can be more complicated for guests traveling from other cities or for families with small children, who may need to leave earlier.

Key Factors for Making Your Decision

Now that you know the pros and cons, it's time to reflect on your priorities. Think of this as a conversation between the two of you.

• Your personal style: Are you a couple more into brunch and countryside walks or cocktails and party nights? Your personality should guide the choice. The wedding is yours—it should speak about you!

• The budget: Be realistic with your budget. If it's tight, a daytime wedding could give you more flexibility. Get quotes for both options before deciding. If you want to better understand how to calculate your budget, don't miss our article on how to set the cost per guest for your wedding, which includes cost comparisons based on the time of day.

• The season and location: This is a crucial point, especially in a country with climates as diverse as Spain. Each season offers different advantages for your wedding. For a more detailed analysis, check out our guide to the best season for getting married in Spain, where you'll find personalized recommendations based on your location and preferences.

  • Spring and Fall (April-June, September-October): These are ideal seasons for both types of weddings. In the north (Galicia, Asturias, Basque Country), the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor daytime weddings. In the center and south, temperatures are pleasant both day and night.
  • Summer (July-August): In inland areas and in the south, an evening wedding is almost mandatory to avoid the sweltering heat. On the Cantabrian coast, where summer is milder, a daytime wedding can be wonderful.
  • Winter (November-March): Daytime weddings are the best option to take advantage of the few hours of sunlight and the warmth of the sun. A wedding in a Galician pazo or Catalan masia with a lit fireplace can be incredibly cozy.

• Your guests: Think about who's coming. Are there many children? Are they coming from far away? A daytime wedding can facilitate logistics for them. If most are young friends wanting to party, an evening wedding will be a guaranteed success. The number of guests also influences this decision. If you're still unsure whether you prefer an intimate or large wedding, this factor will also help you decide whether yours should be during the day or at night.

Detailed Comparison: Day vs. Night

The choice of venue is also fundamental to this decision. Some spaces are better prepared for daytime weddings (with natural light, open gardens), while others shine more at night (with artistic lighting, intimate atmospheres). Check out our complete guide to choosing the perfect venue for your wedding to make this important decision.

Practical Tips for Your Dream Wedding

If You Choose a Daytime Wedding:

1. Plan the timing carefully: Start preparations very early so you don't rush.
2. Think about your guests' comfort: If it's in summer, make sure there are shaded areas, fans, hats, and plenty of fresh water.
3. Take advantage of the light: Talk to your photographer to plan photo sessions during the best light moments.

If You Choose a Nighttime Wedding:

1. Lighting is your best friend: Don't skimp on candles, string lights, or indirect lighting. They'll create a magical atmosphere.
2. Organize transportation: Provide your guests with transportation options or nearby accommodation so they can enjoy the party worry-free.
3. Don't forget the late-night snack: After hours of dancing, your guests will appreciate an extra bite to replenish energy.

One Last Piece of Advice for Your Choice

Close your eyes and imagine your perfect day. What do you see? Are you dancing under the sun with your friends or toasting under a blanket of stars? Do you hear laughter in a garden or the sound of an orchestra in an elegant hall?

There's no right or wrong answer. The best choice is the one that makes you both happy and that you feel represents your love story. Whether day or night, the most important thing is that the day is filled with love, joy, and moments you'll treasure forever.