There’s something utterly magical about a winter wedding. With freshly fallen snow and an abundance of twinkly fairy lights, it’s undeniable that the season affords the opportunity to up the romance factor for your big day.
While this is the case, getting married during the colder months can present a few problems, but thankfully, with a little prior planning, these definitely need not be an issue.
And if you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to lend a helping hand, thanks to our top tips for planning a winter wedding.
WINTER WEDDING FASHION ADVICE
Tip #1: Choose winter accessories: One of the things we love the most about a winter wedding is season-appropriate accessories. If your wedding dress doesn’t have long sleeves, choose a faux fur wrap or chic cardigan, which will serve as a stylish yet practical cover-up.
Tip #2: Don’t forget your bridesmaids: Remember, they too will feel the cold! Opt for longer length dresses in a heavier fabric, and add cover-ups to their look.
Tip #3: Consider the men: Men’s wedding attire generally has more layers, so they’ll be less susceptible to the cold. However, a stylish velvet blazer can be a great alternative to the traditional wedding jacket, and will look great in photos.
Tip #4: Remember your beauty prep: Typically, winter can play havoc on our skin, leaving it dry. In the run up to the wedding, make sure you are regularly moisturising, investing in a cream with proven results. Avoid matt-lipsticks, which can dry out lips and regularly use a lip balm to keep lips moist.
Tip #5: Add layers: If your dress is long, you’re onto a winner. Pop on a pair of thick nude tights and no one will even know!
Tip #6: Opt for season-appropriate shoes: With winter weddings, there’s always the risk of adverse weather conditions. Invest in wedding wellies, or stylish bridal boots which can be swapped for heels when you’re safely indoors.
Tip #7: Just add sparkle: Winter is the perfect season to sparkle, shimmer and shine so add some to your day. Whether it’s through your embellished wedding dress, or incorporated into your stationary, it also has the advantage of looking amazing in photos.
WINTER WEDDING VENUE FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Tip #8: Allow plenty of time for travel: This is particularly important if you’ll need to travel from your ceremony to reception. Add some extra time to your itinerary to allow for unforeseen driving conditions.
Tip #9: Just have one venue: If you’re worried about travel, having your ceremony and reception in the same venue is the perfect solution.
Tip #10: Up the romantic ante: Take advantage of winter’s low lighting by adding tons of candle light to both your ceremony and reception.
Tip #11: Choose a season-appropriate colour scheme: While soft pastels are better reserved for the spring and summer months, winter does offer a gorgeous array of colour options. Consider berry tones or metallic hues for the perfect finish.
Tip #12: Make sure there’s a cloakroom: Guests tend to wear heavier outerwear at a winter wedding, so they’ll need somewhere safe to store it.
Tip #13: Be mindful of the temperature: Ensure your venue is well heated. Plus, why not choose a warm welcome drink for guests? From hot chocolate to eggnog, or even mulled wine, these seasonal drinks will definitely go down a treat.
Tip #14: Consider winter wedding favours: Blankets, sparklers, cookies, candy canes, miniature bottles of Baileys or whisky serve as perfect favours for a winter wedding.
WINTER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
Tip #15: Remember lighting: It tends to get darker much earlier in winter (as early as 4pm) so if your heart is set on having photos taken outside, it’s a good idea to have your ceremony a little earlier to make this work.
Tip #16: Bring brollies: Whether it’s rain, sleet or snow, ensure you have umbrellas positioned in key areas such as doorways and cars to offer much-needed protection from the elements.
Tip #17: Choose locations indoors: There’s a chance that photos outside won’t be an option so have a back-up plan. Speak to your photographer about potential photo locations inside your venue or at least areas of cover that couldbe used.
Tip #18: Stay warm: You definitely won’t want to be your own something blue in photos! Bring along a big fleecy blanket for wrapping up in between shots.
Armed with these top tips, your winter wedding day is sure to be a stylish affair!