How To Plan Your Magical Winter Wedding

Let me start off by saying “I Love Winter Weddings!” I think winter weddings are beautiful and romantic.  Having your wedding photos taken against a snowy backdrop is simply magical. Can you say Winter Wonderland?

With the beauty of a winter wedding comes many benefits such as saving money when booking your vendors.  It’s typically a slower time of year for many vendors so they are more than happy to extend some great discounts to you.  

Here are some tips that will help you prepare for your magical winter wedding.

1.  Footwear. While strappy shoes might be appropriate for the summer, they will not serve you well in the winter. You will need something warm and waterproof to trek through the snow, especially if you are having photos taken outside. Consider a pair of stylish boots for the outdoors. Save your Christian Louboutin or Jimmy Choo shoes for the indoors. 

2.  Accessories. It will be cold outside so make sure you have the proper accessories to keep you warm. A warm shawl, faux fur stole, mini jacket and hand warmers are all good options.

3.  Attire. A long sleeve wedding dress and thick tights will keep you warm. You can change into sheer hosiery once you arrive at the venue.

4.  Bridesmaids & Groomsmen. It’s important they keep warm too. Warm coats, scarfs and gloves are essential especially when trekking in the snow for photos. But don’t wear a winter hat! It will ruin your hair.

5.  Travel Time. With winter comes bad weather and bad road conditions. Allow yourself extra travel time to ensure that you are not late for your ceremony.

6.  Venue. Consider having your ceremony and reception in the same venue or in venues that are close in proximity to avoid traffic delays.

7.  Candles. The nights are long and dark in the winter. Add romance to your wedding with candles to light up the ceremony and reception space.

8.  Photos. Daylight is limited during the winter months so make sure you take your wedding photos during the day especially if you’re having them taken outside. Adjust your timing and schedule to guarantee natural daylight for beautiful photos.

9.  Umbrellas. Have nice umbrellas on hand in case it rains or snows. You’ll want to protect your hair and dress. They don’t have to be fancy or expensive. A black umbrella is perfect for the occasion.  

10.  Coat Check. This is an absolute necessity at any winter wedding. Make sure you have someone in charge of taking your guest’s coats.

11.  Warm Drinks. Consider a barista or coffee and hot chocolate station. It will be cold outside so it’s nice for your guests to have something warm to drink upon arrival.

12.  Wedding Favours. Hot chocolate, festive teas, little bottles of Bailey’s or Kahlua, candy canes, sparkly cookies, pinecones, pashminas or winter gloves placed in a large basket next to a sign that reads “To Have And To Hold in Case You Get Cold” are all great options.

Whatever you do, don’t let the snow and cold deter you from having a beautiful winter wedding.  As you can see, there are many great options to ensure your winter wedding is magical!

Raquel Sananes Grad is the Principal Event & Wedding Planner of RSG Events. For a worry-free affair and all your event planning needs, contact Raquel. 416-398-0217 or raquel@rsgevents.ca

Photo Credit:  June Bug Weddings