We fly from Buffalo to Orlando 2 or 3 times a year. I choose to book on release date and hope for a better price later but not sure that helps you if you’re not able to use the credits.
I don’t want to be the bearer of bad news but I would prepare yourself for higher prices in November. We normally fly in September and November and I’m often disappointed that the Nov flight prices are significantly higher than other times of the year. Not sure why but this has been my experience booking Nov flights over the past 7 years.
This year I totally changed things up for us and booked Westjet for our Dec flight when the price was similar to what release day prices normally are for SW. We’re also gaining 2 days on our trip since we save the time it takes to drive to Buffalo.
One more thought, you may wish to look for tickets on SW for your group of 7 in smaller batches. SW prices work in a way that as a certain price point fills, the price goes up. They may have a smaller number of seats at a lower price and then more at a greater price. Something to keep in mind.
When is the bday sale?
Hope you find prices and flight times that work for you.