What better time to post about winter weddings than on a warm summer day!! Today we’re talking about tips and tricks for planning a winter wedding! Winter weddings can be magical and romantic, but they can also present some unique challenges that don’t come up during spring, summer, or even fall. If you’re planning a winter wedding, here are some tips to help ensure your special day is a success.
Choose the Right Venue: When planning a winter wedding, it’s important to choose a venue that can accommodate your guests comfortably. We don’t want them freezing! Look for a venue that offers indoor space and ample heating, so your guests won’t have to brave the cold weather too much. Considering a venue that offers some beautiful full-length windows or doors can also help highlight the season while keeping everyone warm indoors.
Dress Appropriately: Winter weddings require a little extra attention to your attire – yours as well as the guests! This is especially true if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or photo session. Make sure to plan your dress appropriately with warm, comfortable accessories or your suit with an extra-long-sleeved shirt underneath, and be sure to relay this to any guests that will be asked for photos during the day.
Plan Your Décor: Winter weddings offer the opportunity to incorporate seasonal décor that can enhance the overall ambiance of your wedding. Choosing winter colors like whites, greens, blues, and silvers can really enhance the vision, and adding in seasonal elements like pinecones, evergreen branches, and twinkle lights can really take the event the extra mile!
Provide Cozy Comforts: Make sure your guests are comfortable by providing cozy extras like blankets, hot drinks, and a warm fire if you’re having an outdoor ceremony. If you’re having an indoor reception, considering a hot chocolate station or a s’mores bar can add just the right touch of personality to your event.
Embrace the Season: Winter weddings offer the perfect opportunity to embrace the season depending on your guest list. With winter-themed activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, or a horse-drawn sleigh ride, these activities can be a fun addition to your wedding and create memorable experiences for everyone present!
Choose the Right Flowers: Winter flowers can be sure to wow, but it’s important to select blooms that are in season during the winter months. Your florist will know just what florals are in season and can incorporate winter foliage like eucalyptus, pine, and cedar as well to add a wintery touch.
Keep Your Guests Informed: Winter weather can be unpredictable, especially for out-of-town guests that are not used to the harsh environments. By making sure to keep your guests informed of any weather-related changes or delays, you can ensure they’ll arrive safely and warmly! Send out regular updates via email or a wedding website to ensure everyone is on the same page – or have your planner tackle this task for you.
Plan for Daylight: Because winter days are shorter, make sure to plan your ceremony and photos accordingly. Schedule your ceremony for earlier in the day and plan for a first look to ensure you have plenty of daylight for your photos. Your planner and photographer can work together to make sure you’ve got plenty of time!
Add Some Sparkle: Winter weddings are perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to your wedding, whether through the décor or your dress. Consider incorporating metallic accents like silver, gold, or rose gold into your décor, attire, or invitations to add a little extra something to the season.
Consider a Backup Plan: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. With any wedding, having a backup plan will help you stress less and be prepared in case there is something that goes awry.
Winter weddings can be magical and unforgettable if planned properly, and these tips hopefully help you envision the wonderful season! By following these tips, you can ensure that your winter wedding is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. If you need help visualizing and making your dreams a reality – I’m here to help! Let’s schedule a free consultation to get started.
Images by Darcy Troutman Photography.