Winter weddings can be beautiful. Even though the weather is colder, as long as you plan for it then it won’t impact your day too much. You can even use it to your advantage, think of those unique snowy photographs!
If you’re looking for ideas to get started with planning your winter wedding, read on.
Themes and Colour Schemes
From creating a whimsical winter wonderland to classic Christmas decorations, there are so many stunning colour schemes and themes to choose from. Combine crisp blues with ivory or white for a winter wonderland vibe. If your wedding is closer to Christmas, consider going down the forest green and burgundy route. Rich teals, vintage purples and berry tones can all work well as wintry accent colours.
Twinkling fairy lights look gorgeous wrapped around beams or hung to cover a whole wall. Not only do they look great in person but will provide a breath-taking backdrop for photos. Scatter lanterns and candles around your venue to add a cosy touch. Don’t be scared to add foliage and greenery into the mix, holly and ivy always work well, combine with thistles, berries, and seasonal flowers.
If your wedding is during the festive season, get into the real spirit and incorporate some Christmas magic. Add a statement tree near the entryway with coordinating decorations and lights woven through the branches, remember less is more, it’s important to keep it classy. Place sprigs of mistletoe in doorways around your venue for a cute Christmas touch.
The Practicalities
Think practically, you don’t want your guests to be cold. Ask about the heating situation at your venue. If it’s often chilly let your guests know in advance so they can prepare and bring an extra layer. Provide blankets for each guest so they can snuggle up.
Layering is the most important part of dressing for your big day. Although it might be cold outside, once the heating is on and all your guests are dancing inside it could get quite hot. Cardigans, faux fur shrugs and funky leather jackets are ideal to add that extra warmth.
Wintry Favours
Selecting favours can be a minefield, especially when you want them to be practical. Sparklers for later in the evening work well if you have a firepit at your venue. If you’re looking for those classic sparkler shots, let your photographer know in advance. Hot chocolate kits for guests to pop in their bag and use when they get home to get cosy are another great idea. Mini stockings can be a fun way to present gifts to your guests. Fill with candy canes, small toys for children and maybe even a personalised Christmas decoration to help guests remember your day. Mince pies, crackers and little bottles of Baileys are some of our favourite ideas for continuing the festive theme.
Clothing
Winter wedding dresses are beautiful, take advantage of the cooler weather and choose a more elaborate style. Long sleeves and statement trains are often avoided by summer brides due to warmer weather, make the most of it if you’re getting married in winter. Intricate lace paired with crystals, beads and sequins always look gorgeous on winter brides. We love a pleated tulle skirt as it adds an elegant softness, perfectly matching winter decor. If you’re looking for a more contemporary look, pair a chic white suit with some killer heels for the ultimate statement.
If you choose to add a veil, consider one with a very subtle sparkle which will reflect the light as you walk down the aisle. If a veil isn’t your thing, a headband or head piece can elevate your look. Search 1920s chain headpieces and bridal headbands for some inspiration before you choose one which fits your theme.
Choosing bridesmaid dresses can be a conundrum. You want everyone to feel comfortable and fit in with your colour scheme. Dark greens, light blues, or pewter gowns are some of our favourite for wintry weddings. Don’t forget to ensure your bridesmaids stay cosy throughout the day by providing them with a layering piece.
For the Groom and Groomsmen play around with different fabrics and textures until you find one which suits your theme. Tweed, tartan and velvet are some of the most popular fabrics for a winter theme. Make seasonal buttonholes using the same flowers and foliage you’re using in your venue to tie everything together.
Hair and Makeup
A tasteful soft glam pairs perfectly with a winter theme. Keep your complexion looking natural with rosy blush and a dewy finish. Combine this with a nude lipstick or gloss which suits your skin tone. For the eyes, metallics or brown smoked out shadow complement the rest of the look whilst adding definition. Loose French plaits, a messy updo or gentle waves finish the relaxed and natural look.
Food and Drink
Think Winter warmers when deciding on your menu. Soup with crispy croutons is an obvious starter choice for cooler weather but we love camembert with crusty bread for dipping.
A classic roast dinner provides that comfort and is a popular dish among most guests. If your wedding is near Christmas, why not opt for turkey and all the trimmings? Pies give off that traditional wintry vibe but are easy to adapt to give vegan or vegetarian guests an equally delicious option.
Sticky toffee pudding with creamy custard is a simple but tasty dessert option. If you’re looking for something a little more impressive, chocolate lava bombes or crème brulee are other well-loved choices.
Fruity cocktails are off the cards for welcome drinks. Serve mulled wine or pimp your prosecco with winter berries and pomegranate seeds. Indulgent hot chocolate, tea, and coffee work just as well for those who don’t drink alcohol.
The all important cake can be decorated to fit the theme. White buttercream with a subtle shimmer is a winter go-to. Use metallics to match other elements of the theme. If it’s your style a darker, moodier cake can be really effective with other décor. For a more Christmassy cake, top with holly, berries, or snowflakes. Consider the type of cake, a traditional fruit cake works well for the festive season.
Activities
There are so many fun activities that can be incorporated into a winter wedding. Make full use of a firepit if your venue has one. Have a marshmallow toasting and luxury hot chocolate station nearby. Provide plenty of whipped cream, a variety of marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate sprinkles and sauce.
Wedding stationary
Choose deep hues with metallic writing to create striking wedding invitations. Place holders can be made out of pinecones dipped in fine glitter or a name tag tied to a delicate twig with seasonal leaves.
Biggest Benefits
Despite all of this beautiful décor, food, drink and clothing the main benefit of getting married in the winter is that it is considered an off-peak season. Many venues offer reduced rates during this time, and you will have a wider choice of dates. The twinkling frost and the possibility of a sprinkling of snow provide unique photo opportunities on your special day.
Over Barn is the perfect venue to be transformed into a winter wonderland. The rustic charm offers a blank canvas for couples to decorate as they wish. The covered outdoor space and firepit offer a suitable space for guests to enjoy the chillier outdoors.
If you’d like to tie the knot over the winter, get in touch and book a viewing.
