After months (or even years) of planning, why squeeze your wedding into just one day?
For many couples, a single evening feels like it’s over before it even begins.
That’s why more couples are choosing all-weekend weddings—turning their big day into a fully immersive experience where time slows down and stress is minimized.
Why limit your wedding to just a few hours? All-weekend weddings are redefining how couples celebrate—with more time, more memories, and less stress. But is it the right choice for you?
At Zion Springs, we specialize in crafting seamless, all-inclusive weekend weddings that allow couples to celebrate at their own pace. In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What makes an all-weekend wedding the ultimate celebration experience
- How it compares to a one-day wedding
- Planning strategies to make it stress-free and cost-effective
By the end, you’ll know exactly why an all-weekend wedding is worth it—and how to make it a reality.
Balancing Celebration and Costs in an All-Weekend Wedding
One of the biggest misconceptions about all-weekend weddings is that they cost significantly more than a one-day event. While adding extra days does require planning, a well-structured weekend wedding can be a smarter investment.
How much does an all-weekend wedding cost compared to a traditional one?
One-Day Wedding Cost: $30,000 – $50,000
All-Weekend Wedding Cost: Can be planned within a similar budget when using:
- Venue package deals → Many venues offer lower rates for multi-day bookings.
- Reusing décor across multiple events → Less waste, more value.
- Flexible catering options → A mix of casual meals and interactive dining instead of one expensive formal dinner.
| Many couples worry about juggling multiple vendors, but Zion Springs’ all-inclusive approach makes planning effortless. Jamie & Dave, who recently married here, shared: “With our busy careers, the idea of having everything handled in one place was a huge relief. We didn’t have to track down multiple vendors—Zion Springs took care of it all. It was the first and only venue we visited because once we saw it, we knew. It was the easiest decision we made!” – Jamie & Dave |
Want to see how an all-inclusive wedding saves money? Read: Do All-Inclusive Weddings Really Save You Money?
Not sure if a weekend-long wedding is the right choice for you? Some couples thrive in a multi-day celebration, while others may prefer a more traditional format. Read our breakdown to see if it’s the best fit
Styles of All-Weekend Weddings: Which One is Right for You?
Weddings have followed the same rushed formula for decades—one packed day, a blur of introductions, a few quick conversations, and before you know it, it’s over. But who decided that’s the best way to celebrate?
An all-weekend wedding changes everything. It gives you time—to connect, celebrate, and enjoy your wedding instead of racing through it. Whether it’s a relaxed weekend retreat, a destination escape, or a festival-style celebration, why settle for a single day when you could have an experience?
1. The Classic Weekend Celebration (Relaxed & Elegant)
Perfect for couples who want a traditional wedding format with extra breathing room. This structure follows a natural, stress-free flow:
- Friday: A casual welcome dinner or cocktail hour.
- Saturday: The main event—ceremony, reception, and dancing.
- Sunday: A farewell brunch where guests can reminisce and say their goodbyes.
It’s everything you love about a traditional wedding—without the feeling that it’s over before it starts.
2. The Destination Wedding Weekend (An Experience to Remember)
Dreaming of exchanging vows somewhere breathtaking? A destination wedding transforms your big day into a mini-vacation for your guests while giving you more quality time with loved ones.
- Day One: Guests arrive, settle in, and enjoy a welcome gathering.
- Day Two: A mix of local activities, sightseeing, or relaxation before the ceremony.
- Day Three: A farewell brunch or excursion to end the weekend on a high note.
Why rush through paradise? A weekend wedding makes the most of the setting, the people, and the once-in-a-lifetime moments.
3. The Immersive Wedding Festival (For the Adventurous & Unconventional)
For couples who love experiential weddings, this format allows for:
- Themed activities like bonfires, outdoor yoga, or live performances.
- Interactive guest experiences—from wine tastings to adventure excursions.
- A flexible schedule that unfolds organically over multiple days.
Think less “wedding schedule” and more “wedding adventure.” If you want a celebration that feels dynamic and immersive, this is it.
| Many couples love the idea of a destination wedding but don’t want to travel far. Lyndsay & Paul found the perfect balance at Zion Springs: “We wanted a destination feel without the travel, and Zion Springs delivered. The all-inclusive team made planning stress-free, and once we visited, we fell in love. The setting was absolutely magical, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish.” – Lyndsay & Paul |
How Guest Engagement Creates the Ultimate Wedding Experience
Your wedding is one of the few times in life when all of your favorite people will be together.
A weekend format gives them time to connect—with you and with each other. Instead of passing through a single evening, they share in conversations, moments, and memories that unfold naturally over days—not hours.
1. A Wedding That Feels Like a Getaway, Not Just an Event
- Welcome Mixer or Icebreakers → Helps guests mingle and sets a relaxed, joyful tone.
- Local Tours & Excursions → Gives guests a chance to explore and enjoy the location.
2. More Genuine Connections, More Cherished Moments
- DIY Workshops & Classes → Cocktail-making, flower arranging, or mini calligraphy sessions offer a fun, personal touch.
- Relaxation Zones → Cozy lounge areas let guests unwind between events.
3. Elevated Celebrations Beyond the Dance Floor
- Themed Activities → Tailor experiences to your venue (beach volleyball, wine tastings, mountain hikes).
- Evening Entertainment → Bonfires, outdoor movie nights, or acoustic music create memorable moments.
4. A Farewell That Feels Like a Celebration, Not Just an Exit
- Farewell Brunch → A relaxed send-off with coffee, mimosas, and a slideshow of highlights.
- Memory Stations & Photo Booths → Guests can leave Polaroids and handwritten notes, creating a lasting keepsake.
An all-weekend wedding gives couples and guests more time together—turning a single-day event into a full experience. Hayley & Tucker shared:
“Having everything in one place took a huge weight off our shoulders. We didn’t have to worry about logistics and instead got to focus on enjoying time with family and friends. Having the venue for the whole weekend meant extra moments we’ll always cherish.” – Haley & Tucker
Planning Your Dream All-Weekend Wedding
Why rush the best day of your life? A weekend wedding gives you time to breathe, space to connect, and a celebration that feels relaxed, personal, and full of moments you’ll remember.
You’ve seen how this format reduces stress, enhances the guest experience, and often fits within the same budget as a one-day wedding. If you’re considering this path, we’ve created resources to help you plan with confidence.
Start with our Wedding Planning Advice Guide to compare formats and costs, then explore how other couples built meaningful weekend celebrations—without the overwhelm.
Want to see why Zion Springs is the perfect place to host your dream wedding?
Discover 5 Reasons Why Zion Springs is the Ultimate Destination Wedding Venue.
