“People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
That’s the heart of every wedding, right? Creating unforgettable feelings. But here’s something most couples don’t consider until their budget starts groaning: You don’t have to spend like royalty to have a wedding that feels luxurious. In fact, there’s a little-known hack that savvy couples in New Orleans are turning into a secret weapon during weekday weddings.
Yes, you read that right. Tuesday is the new Saturday.
Why Weekday Weddings Are Worth a Second Look
According to The Knot, Saturday is still the most popular wedding day meaning it’s also the most expensive. It’s prime real estate in the wedding world. Vendors know it, venues know it, and your wallet definitely knows it.
But here’s the twist: weekdays offer the exact same experience at a fraction of the cost.
At The Four Columns, our elegant ballrooms and authentic Cajun-Italian cuisine don’t get any less delicious or dazzling just because you said “I do” on a Thursday. In fact, many couples who choose weekday weddings report higher guest satisfaction because the event feels more intimate, relaxed, and surprisingly luxurious all without the Saturday price tag.
The Budget Breakdown: How Much Can You Actually Save?
Let’s get into numbers, because this is where weekday weddings shine.
Venue discounts: Weekday rates can be up to 30–50% lower than weekend pricing. That means more room in your budget for floral installations, upgraded catering, or a live jazz band (hey, it’s New Orleans why not?).
Vendor availability: Top-tier photographers, planners, florists, and DJs often book up months (even years) in advance for weekends. But weekday weddings? You get first pick. And sometimes, at a discounted rate.
Guest accommodations: Hotels and flights are typically cheaper midweek. Your out-of-town guests will thank you for the savings.
Planning for Success: How to Make It Work
Now, let’s talk about strategy. If you’re leaning into off-peak wedding planning, a few tips can help you get the most from your weekday celebration.
1. Give Your Guests Notice
People will show up for your wedding even if it’s on a Wednesday. The trick? Send save-the-dates early. Aim for 6–8 months in advance, especially if it’s a destination-style celebration in New Orleans.
2. Plan a Late Afternoon Ceremony
Many weekday weddings begin around 4 or 5 PM. This gives guests time to work a half-day and still make it to your event without feeling rushed. Plus, golden hour photos? Chef’s kiss.
3. Highlight the Experience
You’re not just saving money, you’re creating a uniquely curated event. Emphasize that. At The Four Columns, we lean into the authenticity of New Orleans: bold flavors, rich history, and hospitality that makes your guests feel like family. Whether it’s a gumbo starter or a courtyard cocktail hour with live music, we help turn “off-peak” into “off-the-charts.”
Midweek, Not Mid-Quality
We hear this a lot: “But will it feel like a real wedding?”
The answer? Absolutely. A weekday wedding doesn’t mean cutting corners. It means making smarter choices.
Think fewer competing events, more time with guests, a smoother planning process, and better service across the board. Vendors are often less stressed, more focused, and more flexible during the week meaning your day gets the attention it deserves.
Affordable Wedding Dates Are In
Savvy couples are already catching on. From meaningful Monday elopements to chic Thursday receptions, weekday weddings are shaking up tradition and in a good way.
At The Four Columns, we’ve seen an increase in couples choosing off-peak wedding dates. Why? Because the experience doesn’t change, but the cost does. With two stunning ballrooms, personalized menus of Cajun and Italian dishes, and expert planning guidance, we make every celebration weekday or not feel effortless and elevated.
Ready to Rethink the Rules?
Your wedding should reflect you, not a calendar convention. If you’re planning a New Orleans wedding and looking to maximize your budget without compromising on style, taste, or guest experience, a weekday wedding might be your best-kept secret.
Come tour The Four Columns. We’ll show you how weekdays can work wonders.
Book your weekday wedding with us and let’s turn a Tuesday into a celebration your guests will talk about for years.Call us today to schedule your private tour or speak with a planner.
Located in New Orleans, offering both on-site and off-site wedding services
Featuring family-inspired Cajun and Italian menus crafted for unforgettable moments
