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The date is set, the invitations have been sent, everything seems to be running like clockwork. So why do people keep on giving you funny looks when you tell them the date? And why all the "polite refusals"? Yes, that's right - it's because you've chosen the one date when every man in England apart from your intended, wants to be at home in front of the TV - it is FA Cup Final Saturday! So to avoid clashing with such important dates, and other possible pitfalls, here are my tips on selecting a wedding date and time.

First , if you live in the UK or Northern Europe, think carefully about the weather before you plan your date. A snow scene for the backdrop of your wedding photos may seem pretty and romantic, but it is far from practical. The hems of the bride and bridesmaid's dresses will drag into the slush and snow, their elegant shoes will ruin, and if you have ever posed for an hour outside a Church in temperatures below freezing, you will know how unpleasant it can be. You also have to think about the light. Darkness falls at 2.30pm or 3.00pm in many parts of Europe in Winter, and even on dry days, the sky can be heavy, grey and overcast, and most definitely not conducive to good photographic lighting. Add to that, the sheer practicality of bad weather and bad road conditions for guests travelling any distance, and setting a date between October and March becomes less and less appealing. Of course if you live in the UK, there is a danger of rain anytime and anywhere, but at least if you marry in the Spring or Summer, the rain will be warm, not freezing sleet. So in my opinion, the weather is the first thing you should think about when setting a wedding date. As most weddings here in the UK take place between April and September, I guess I am not alone in thinking that way.

Second, I know it may sound stupid, but do check the sporting and other major event calendars before setting your date. With about 90% of men here being avid football fans, FA Cup Final Saturday, is not a good day to choose. I have known stories where even the Vicar has nipped out to listen to the match on his radio at every opportunity! Same goes for the month of the World Cup, the final weekend of the Olympics, and Wimbledon Finals Day. And talking of Wimbledon tennis, if you live in close proximity to SW19, best avoid getting married on any day during that fortnight, because the roads and traffic are appalling. Same goes for anyone living in Reading and wanting to tie the knot

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