Weekday Weddings
When most couples picture their wedding day, they automatically think of a Saturday. However, in recent years, weekday weddings have become one of the biggest trends in the UK wedding industry—and for good reason.
Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony, a micro wedding with your closest family and friends, or simply looking to make your wedding budget go further, a weekday wedding in Leicestershire can be a fantastic choice.
As a Leicestershire wedding photographer, I've photographed weddings of all shapes and sizes, and some of the most relaxed, meaningful celebrations I've seen have taken place on weekdays.
Why choose a weekday wedding?
More Availability
One of the biggest advantages of a weekday wedding is availability. Popular venues often book Saturday dates years in advance, while weekday dates can be available much sooner.
This is particularly helpful if you're planning a shorter engagement or want to secure your dream venue without a long wait.
Better Value
Many venues offer reduced rates for Monday to Thursday weddings, allowing couples to allocate more of their budget towards photography, food, flowers or a honeymoon.
Suppliers may also have greater availability during the week, giving you more flexibility when building your wedding team.
A More Relaxed Atmosphere
Weekday weddings often feel more intimate and less rushed. Not everyone wants a huge wedding in term of guest numbers. Couples frequently choose smaller guest lists, creating a more personal experience where they can spend quality time with everyone attending.
Many of my weekday wedding couples tell me afterwards that the day felt less pressured and more focused on what truly mattered: celebrating their relationship with their closest family and friends.
Beautiful Weekday Wedding Venues in Leicestershire
Rothley Court
Rothley Court Hotel is a beautiful historic manor house set within picturesque grounds and is licensed for civil ceremonies. Its gardens, medieval features and charming architecture provide a wonderful backdrop for intimate weekday celebrations and wedding photography. The venue hosts both ceremonies and receptions, making it ideal for couples wanting everything in one place. Couples most often opt for their ceremony to take place in the beautiful chapel there.
The Belmont Hotel
The Belmont Hotel has long been a popular choice for couples seeking an elegant city wedding. Its central Leicester location makes it particularly convenient for guests travelling from across the Midlands, while still offering a stylish and intimate setting for smaller celebrations. Couples love their wedding photographs to be taken out in the New Walk which makes for a beautiful backdrop and the perfect place for a confetti, 'guard of honour'.
Leicester Town Hall Registry Office
Leicester Town Hall offers licensed ceremony rooms for civil marriages and civil partnerships. It's a fantastic option for couples planning a simple, elegant ceremony before heading to a restaurant, private dining room or nearby venue to celebrate with family and friends. Aside from its central location, what makes it iconic, is being able to have your wedding photographs by the best-loved Town Hall Square fountain - just perfect!
Leicester Guildhall
Leicester Guildhall is one of Leicester's most unique wedding venues. With over 600 years of history and licensed ceremony rooms for both intimate and larger gatherings, it offers an incredible setting for couples wanting something a little different. What I love about The Guildhall is it's ancient backdrop and you can have your drinks reception in The Parlour with photographs in the court yard before heading to a nearby restaurant or venue, such as The City Rooms.
Why Weekday Weddings Are Perfect for Micro Weddings
A micro wedding typically includes fewer than 30 guests and focuses on meaningful experiences rather than large-scale celebrations.
Weekday weddings and micro weddings are a natural fit because they allow couples to:
- Spend quality time with every guest
- Choose unique venues that may not suit larger weddings
- Invest more in photography and experiences
- Create a relaxed, personal atmosphere
- Keep wedding planning simple and stress-free
Many couples discover that a smaller weekday wedding allows them to focus on the moments they'll remember for years to come.
My Top Tips for Planning a Successful Weekday Wedding
Give Guests Plenty of Notice
Some guests may need to book annual leave, so sending save-the-dates early can help maximise attendance.
Consider a Later Ceremony
A late afternoon ceremony can make it easier for guests to attend after work while still allowing plenty of time for celebrations.
Keep Things Flexible
Weekday weddings don't have to follow traditional wedding timelines. Many couples choose brunch weddings, afternoon ceremonies or intimate dinners instead of formal evening receptions.
Prioritise Photography
With a smaller guest list and more relaxed schedule, weekday weddings often create wonderful opportunities for natural, authentic photographs that capture the emotion of the day.
For larger weddings, I often ask couples to give me a list of their, 'must have' photographs. This means the couple don't have to worry about it on the day and I can organise, 'who's, who'. Whereas when you have a micro wedding, with less than 30 guests, you can let things flow a little because there aren't as many people to organise.
