The best time of year to get married in the Hudson Valley

I get asked this on almost every first call. Every month from May to October works, and each one has a trade-off. This is what I’ve seen across 238 weddings in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills since 2014.

May and June

Everything is green and the evenings are long: sunset in Kingston is around 8:30 pm in late June, which leaves plenty of time for portraits after dinner. The trade-offs are rain (May is often wet) and black flies in the Catskills from mid-May to late June. If your venue is near the woods, put bug spray in the welcome bags.

July and August

These are the most reliable months for outdoor dinners. They are also hot: I have photographed several barn weddings above 85 degrees. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so ask your venue where the rain plan is before you sign. The light is harsh between noon and 4, which is why I’d put an August ceremony at 5 or later.

September and October

These are the most popular months, and their Saturdays book first, often 14 to 18 months ahead. Foliage usually peaks in the first half of October in the Catskills and a week or two later along the river. Sunset moves quickly: about 7:05 pm in mid-September and 6:15 pm by mid-October, so plan the timeline around it.

November to April

Venues are cheaper, often 20 to 40 percent below their peak prices, and dates are easy to get. Sunset is around 4:30 pm in December, so portraits usually happen before the ceremony. Snow is likely from late December to early March. Mud season runs from late March through April, and it’s the one stretch I’d steer couples away from if they want photos outside.

What I’d choose

For the best chance of good weather and soft light, the last weekend of September. For foliage, the second weekend of October, booked early. For the place to yourselves, a Friday in January somewhere with a fireplace.