Winter weddings are magical! The snow-covered landscapes, the cozy ambiance – it’s like a fairytale come true. But let’s not forget, Mother Nature can be unpredictable! Thinking about hosting a winter wedding? Here are a few things to keep in mind in your planning process.
Embrace the Seasonal Beauty
Winter is one of the most romantic seasons to get married, offering a magical backdrop of snow and nature’s beauty. Incorporate seasonal elements such as snowflakes, pinecones, candles, and winter florals like evergreens, holly, and deep red roses. Let the season inspire your color palette, decor, and overall aesthetic for a truly enchanting celebration.
Make It Romantic
Wintertime can be inherently romantic! Create a cozy atmosphere with plenty of candles, deep-colored flowers, and soft lighting. This will enhance the warmth and intimacy of your winter wedding.
Choose the Right Venue
Ensure your venue is suited for the season and weather. A cozy indoor setting with a fireplace or a winter lodge adds warmth and charm. For outdoor ceremonies, make sure the venue has heated tents, blankets, or a reliable indoor backup plan in case of snow or extreme weather.
Consider the Roads and Travel Logistics
Winter weather can make travel conditions unpredictable, so assess the accessibility of your venue, especially if it’s remote. Ensure guests can reach it safely even in poor weather. Consider sending updates on travel conditions, arranging transportation like buses or shuttles, and suggesting nearby accommodations. Provide enough time for out-of-town guests to plan and encourage early bookings to avoid issues.
Plan for Comfortable Attire
Winter weddings may require extra layers for comfort. Brides might consider long-sleeved gowns or accessorizing with shawls, fur stoles, or boleros. Grooms should opt for well-fitted suits with warm wool overcoats. Make sure to advise guests to dress appropriately for the chilly weather and have a coat check available.
Have a Backup Plan for Weather
Since winter weather can be unpredictable, always have a backup plan. For outdoor ceremonies, ensure there’s an indoor option available, and consider providing umbrellas, scarves, or blankets for guests. This will help keep everyone comfortable, even if the weather changes unexpectedly.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Foods and Drinks
Winter weddings offer the perfect opportunity to serve hearty and comforting dishes like roasted vegetable salads, braised meats, and warm soups. Hot cocoa, mulled wine, spiced cocktails, and seasonal desserts (gingerbread cookies, eggnog-flavored cake, or s’mores stations) will delight guests.
Send Invitations Early
Because winter often coincides with holiday travel, send your invitations 3-4 months in advance to give guests ample time to plan. This is particularly important for those traveling from afar.
Know Who to Call in a Snowstorm
Prepare for unpredictable weather by having reliable contacts for winter transportation services and emergency backup plans. Know who to call for snow-related issues, such as shuttle services or tow truck companies, to ensure a smooth experience for your guests.
Be Mindful of Daylight Hours
Winter days are shorter, so plan your ceremony and photos accordingly. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or portraits, aim to schedule them before the sun sets, which can be as early as 4:30 pm in some regions. Evening ceremonies can be beautiful too, but be sure to have enough lighting for warmth and visibility
Ensure Comfort and Cozy Ambiance
Keep the indoor temperature comfortable so guests don’t overheat in their winter attire. A good heating system and air circulation will help. Also, create a cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating, warm drinks, and blankets. This way, everyone will feel comfortable and enjoy the romantic vibe of your special day.
Opt for Seasonal Florals
Though some flowers may be harder to source in winter, you can opt for seasonal blooms like amaryllis, roses, and poinsettias, or incorporate non-floral elements such as greenery, pinecones, and candles. This will ensure your decor feels fresh and aligned with the season.
Wedding Day Photos Outdoors
Winter landscapes are stunning, but remember the cold! Have an indoor space available to warm up afterward. Consider a mix of outdoor and indoor photos to balance comfort with beautiful seasonal backdrops.
Don’t Assume It Will Be Less Expensive or Less Busy
Though winter weddings may offer savings in terms of venue and vendor pricing, don’t assume it will automatically be cheaper or less busy. Vendors can still be in high demand during the winter months, especially around holidays. Book early to ensure availability and the best prices.
Get Creative with Winter Wedding Favors
Winter weddings offer the perfect chance to give guests thoughtful and useful favors. Consider items to help them stay warm, like personalized blankets, hot cocoa kits, or jars of honey or jam. These thoughtful gifts will make lasting memories of your day.
Don’t Overdo It with Christmas Themes
While holiday decor can add charm to a winter wedding, avoid turning the event into a full Christmas celebration unless that’s your personal style. Subtle holiday touches like a Christmas tree or festive candles can enhance the atmosphere, but make sure your wedding still feels distinctly about celebrating your love.