Bucking the trend for spring and summer
weddings in favour
of a winter soirée could make your big day even more magical. Explore the
elements that need to be carefully considered if you want to create an
incredible wonderland wedding.
1.
Setting the date
Although
you’ll likely have plenty of choice with venue availability compared to the
spring and summer months, setting the date of your winter wedding requires
careful consideration.
Travelling
in winter can be challenging, so as beautiful as a white wedding would be it’s
best to opt for early December or the end of February rather than midwinter if
guests are coming from far and wide.
You should
also avoid the festive period unless you’re planning an intimate event as
people are often with their families or abroad. If you opt for a day close to
Christmas, you’ll benefit from extra-special attractive décor, delicious
traditional fare and the joyful spirit of the season.
2.
Choosing the venue
Choosing an
indoor venue is recommended for winter weddings. Temperature control and cosy
fires ensure your guests are comfortable throughout the event and there’s no
risk of seasonal heavy wind and rain spoiling the ceremony. Old halls and
hotels in particular look sensational with fires roaring in the grates of
softly-lit wood-panelled rooms.
However, if
you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding, getting married in winter
doesn’t automatically rule this out. A marquee made of a thermal material with
heaters lining the walls will soon feel pleasant once it’s filled with dancing
guests!
3.
Selecting your outfit
You’ll want
to look and feel your best on the big day, and this comes from being
comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. If your outfit is too hot,
cold or restrictive, it could interrupt your enjoyment of this momentous
occasion.
Instead of
dressing for the weather, dress for the climate you’ll be in. Stay cool in hot
rooms with breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, or ensure warmth outdoors
with thicker materials such as silk and velvet and a jacket or bolero that can
be added or removed as needed.
When
planning your accessories, you can either make a diamond ring the star with your wedding band or go all-out
with a matching necklace and sparkling combs or a tiara. Gemstones such as
sapphires, emeralds and rubies will also glitter beautifully in the low
sunlight and frost or flickering firelight.
4.
Navigating logistics
Winter brings the chance of storms and snow, and at the very least the
likelihood of rain, wind and sub-zero temperatures which can leave roads and
paths icy. This can make travelling to winter weddings time-consuming, so allow
plenty of time for your guests to get to the venue.
You should
also speak to the venue about arranging grit and wet floor signs to protect
your guests’ health and safety in the event of bad weather.
Party season
could compound logistics challenges as it increases the amount of traffic on
the roads and makes it harder to get taxis. Advise guests to allow extra time
if driving and to order their ride home well in advance to avoid disappointment
and stressful situations on the night.
