Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most debated wedding dates of the year. Families are already together, the fall colors are still around, and venues are often easier to book. But it also competes with travel, family traditions and football. Here's an honest look at both sides, and ideas if you decide to go for it.
The pros
- Family is already gathered. Out-of-town relatives may already be traveling for the holiday.
- Built-in long weekend. Many guests have Friday off, which makes a Friday or Saturday wedding easier to attend.
- Availability and pricing. Late November is past peak season at many NJ venues. Ask whether off-peak pricing applies on the holiday weekend, since policies vary.
- Built-in theme. Gratitude, harvest and family are natural wedding themes.
The cons
- Airfare and travel. Holiday travel is expensive and crowded. Guests flying in will notice.
- Competing commitments. Guests may need to choose between your wedding and their in-laws.
- Vendor availability and holiday rates. Some vendors take the weekend off or charge more.
- Weather. Late November in New Jersey is often cold, so plan an indoor ceremony or a heated backup.
Our advice: survey your closest family and wedding party before booking. If the people you can't imagine celebrating without are in, it can be a wonderful date.
Which day of the weekend?
Thanksgiving Day itself is rarely practical. Friday and Saturday are the most popular, and Sunday works for local guests. Saturday gives out-of-towners the most flexibility.
Fall colors and décor
- Deep burgundy, burnt orange, gold and cream, or a softer palette of rust, sage and ivory.
- Seasonal flowers like dahlias, garden roses, ranunculus and amaranthus, with dried grasses and wheat.
- Pumpkins, gourds and pears as centerpieces or place-card holders.
- Candles everywhere. Sunset is early in late November, so the reception is fully evening by cocktail hour. See our wedding candle ideas.
Menu ideas
Lean into the season without serving a second Thanksgiving dinner. Butternut squash soup, short ribs or roast turkey breast with a twist, a cider cocktail, an apple and pumpkin dessert table, or a late-night grilled cheese and tomato soup station. Ask your venue which seasonal dishes they're known for.
Gratitude touches
- A "what we're thankful for" card at each place setting.
- A gratitude tree where guests hang notes instead of a guest book.
- A toast thanking both families by name.
- Favors tied to the season, like local apple butter or maple candy. More ideas in our wedding favor guide.
Choosing a venue for a late-fall wedding
Look for warm interiors, a fireplace or cozy cocktail space, and an indoor ceremony option. Mansion venues like Crystal Plaza and The Rockleigh and mountain resorts like Grand Cascades Lodge suit the season. Tour them in 360° and check availability from the venue directory. If you got engaged over the holidays, start with our just-engaged guide. You might also enjoy these Thanksgiving proposal ideas.
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