October consistently stands out as the most popular month for weddings in Northwest Indiana, the Chicago area, and Southwest Michigan, with September following closely behind and the spring months rounding out the top three.
Couples are drawn to fall for its cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and rich seasonal colors that create stunning backdrops for outdoor ceremonies and portraits.
October, in particular, needs to be booked EARLY - with venue and vendors. This year, I have one Friday and one lone Sunday available, and many venues book up 2 years in advance.
Fall colors can be seen in the background at White Oak Farm Venue.
September remains a favorite for its longer daylight hours and late-summer warmth.
Together, these months - October, early November and September reflect the Midwest’s sweet spot—when nature, comfort, and timing align perfectly for a wedding day. However, you will be vying for desired venues, vendors and dates during these most popular months.
A silhouette of bride and groom walking on a hill at the Barn and Vineyard venue in Illinois.
Beach wedding photos in late Spring at the Indiana Dunes.
Spring weddings in mid-May and early June appeal to couples looking for fresh blooms, softer light, and more venue availability before peak season begins.
One of my popular Spring venues is The Allure On The Lake in Chesterton, and we often head to the beach for pictures before the summer crowds arrive.
A sunset wedding photo at a Summer wedding at Fair Oaks Farms in Indiana.
July and August often offer the most availability for weddings across Northwest Indiana, the Chicago area, and Southwest Michigan, despite being the height of summer.
While these months provide long days and lush greenery, they also bring higher temperatures, increased humidity, and a greater chance of heat-related discomfort for guests. As a result, summer weddings tend to book later or remain more flexible, giving couples more options for venues and vendors than in the heavily sought-after fall months.
Personally, I love summer, and these months can provide awesome sunset photos.
A night time wedding photo during the winter.
Winter weddings offer a unique charm in Northwest Indiana, the Chicago area, and Southwest Michigan, but they come with important planning considerations—especially when it comes to light and location.
With daylight hours shortening significantly and sunset arriving as early as late afternoon, having a venue that is well-suited for indoor photography becomes essential. Natural light, open spaces, and thoughtfully designed interiors help ensure portraits and candid moments remain bright and flattering, even after dark.
Winter weather can also limit outdoor photo opportunities. However, I do bring lighting and encourage images at twilight for the blue-hour look.
A golden hour image of a couple embracing at their summer wedding.
No matter the season, the best time of year to get married in the Midwest ultimately comes down to what matters most to you. Each season offers its own advantages—from the vibrant colors and ideal temperatures of fall, to the flexibility of summer, the fresh start of spring, and the cozy elegance of winter.
Understanding how weather, daylight, and venue design impact your wedding day can help you plan with confidence and set realistic expectations. With thoughtful planning and the right team of vendors, any month can be the perfect backdrop for a Midwest wedding.