As the festive season comes to a close, many parts of the world are still shrouded in winter’s chill. But for those who revel in the cozy atmosphere and excuse to indulge in hot drinks, there’s no need to rush into spring just yet. A winter wedding can be a unique and enchanting experience, with its own set of charms and opportunities for creativity.
While planning a winter wedding does present some challenges, it also offers a chance to think outside the box and bring your vision to life. With this in mind, we’ve turned to the experts at Pocketful of Dreams, one of the UK’s top wedding planning companies, for their top tips on how to plan a winter wedding with style.
Joining us is Creative Event Designer Michelle Kelly, a mastermind behind unforgettable celebrations. If anyone can help you throw a party to remember, it’s her. So sit back, take notes, and let Michelle guide you through the process.
How To Plan a Winter Wedding Your Guests Will Never Forget…
As the seasons transition into winter’s chill, there’s an undeniable charm to this time of year – the warmth of crackling fires, the brilliant blue skies and the delicate dusting of frost or snow across the landscape. It’s little wonder that a growing number of couples are choosing to tie the knot during this magical season. However, hosting a winter wedding does require some unique considerations that might not have been on your radar.
Wrap Up Warm
As you begin planning your special day, it’s crucial to prioritize the comfort and experience of your guests. After all, no one has a good time when they’re shivering in the cold! To ensure everyone stays cozy, work with your photographer to schedule group shots in advance, avoiding lengthy periods of standing outside. Consider offering warming drinks and blankets to keep your guests happy while photos are being taken.
In addition to thinking about your guests’ comfort, don’t forget to plan your own outfit with the temperature in mind. You wouldn’t want to abandon your romantic couple shots for fear of catching a chill! Opt for a stylish cashmere cardigan or faux fur coat that will keep you warm without sacrificing your fashion sense.
Lastly, consider the needs of your smoking guests, who may spend more time outside than others. Set up a designated smokers’ corner with warm blankets and possibly even a fire pit if feasible, to ensure they’re comfortable and entertained while still respecting non-smokers.
Give Plenty of Notice
As winter approaches, it’s essential to consider the seasonal frenzy that comes with it. With holidays, parties, and end-of-year celebrations, many people have packed schedules, making it crucial to send out Save The Dates well in advance. This advice isn’t limited to just your wedding guests; vendors like caterers, bars, and entertainment providers are also busier than usual during this time of year, as Christmas and New Year’s Eve events dominate the hospitality industry. To avoid disappointment and ensure your top choices for services are available, make sure to book them early. While digital Save The Dates have become increasingly popular, it’s still a good idea to reserve the formal invitation for its grand reveal, giving guests ample time to plan and budget accordingly.
Running Times
As the Winter Equinox marks the end of longer days, it’s crucial to adjust your wedding plans accordingly. With daylight dwindling as early as 3 pm, make the most of natural light by incorporating couple shots into your day. This might involve scheduling an earlier ceremony or arranging a First Look with your photographer to capture those intimate moments before the main event. However, be mindful that an earlier start can result in a lengthy day for guests, so ensure you’re providing ample food and drink options throughout. Don’t forget to sprinkle in interactive elements and surprises to keep things engaging and fun!
See the Light
When it comes to capturing those special moments on your big day, lighting can make or break the ambiance. And let’s not forget about the actual styling and atmosphere of your venue – lighting plays a crucial role there too. As you welcome your guests to their seats for the wedding breakfast, the chances are they’ll be dining in the dark, especially if it’s a winter wonderland wedding. Rather than fighting against that natural darkness with harsh overhead lights, why not embrace the magic and let candlelight and fairy lights do their thing? Stick to warm white tones and you’ll create a truly enchanting atmosphere that will leave your guests spellbound. Plus, there’s an added bonus – candles can actually add physical warmth to the space!
Move With the Times
When planning a winter wedding, it’s essential to be pragmatic about what you can and can’t accomplish. While getting married in a field may not be the most practical or enjoyable option for a winter celebration, alternative venues like country houses or industrial cities can provide a unique and memorable setting. To ensure your guests’ comfort and enjoyment, consider the logistics of your chosen venue. This might include setting up a cloakroom to accommodate coats, gloves, scarves, and hats, as well as working with your venue or catering staff to ensure it’s adequately staffed during peak arrival times. Don’t forget to capitalize on the winter season by incorporating cozy elements into your decor. This could include using woolen blankets to create intimate spaces, setting up impromptu snowball fights with spare wellies, and incorporating piles of logs and fir trees to add warmth and a pleasant scent to your venue.
Feed Me, Seymour
When it comes to winter wedding planning, the key is to focus on warmth and coziness. Start by collaborating with your caterer to create a menu that’s both seasonal and light. Winter doesn’t have to mean heavy meals; instead, opt for dishes that incorporate fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors.To add an extra layer of comfort to your winter wedding, consider ditching the traditional Champagne reception in favor of something more unique. Mulled wine and cider are great options, but you could also experiment with warm cocktails featuring seasonal spices and spirits.As the evening wears on, why not set up a hot chocolate bar that guests can customize to their liking? A beautifully styled station featuring toppings like marshmallows, coconut ice, and rock candy sticks is sure to be a hit. And for an added touch of sophistication, consider adding a splash of whisky or Baileys to give things a grown-up twist.
Fabulous Florals
As visualized in a quartet of enchanting images, seasonally-inspired blooms such as anemones, anthurium, and roses harmonize beautifully with a medley of foliage like spruce branches, seeded eucalyptus, and natural elements like mini pinecones. The juxtaposition of bold, dramatic hues against the earthy tones of greenery and wood accents creates a visually striking arrangement that celebrates the beauty of nature.