From cozy settings and snowy landscapes – there’s just something special about the ambiance of winter weddings. As with any time of year, however, planning your colder weather wedding comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Whether you dream of a snow-dusted celebration or an intimate event inspired by the season, we’ve got you covered with 4 tips to make your winter wedding as magical and memorable as the season itself.
Rachel + Cody’s dreamy winter day captured by Ivory Lace Photo & Film
Plan for shorter days
One of the biggest mistakes couples make when planning a winter wedding is not taking into account the earlier sunset. While summer weddings typically start at 4 or 5pm, winter weddings have to adjust for less daylight. We recommend having your reception earlier in the afternoon to make sure you have beautiful lighting for all of your ceremony & post-ceremony photos. Additionally, make sure you factor in timing for newlywed portraits – this is especially important if you don’t plan on doing a first look!
Rachel + Cody’s dreamy winter day captured by Ivory Lace Photo & Film
Include winter must-haves in your emergency kits & welcome bags
When piecing together your welcome bags & emergency kits, don’t overlook a few extra items that may come in handy during the colder months. Ensure that your emergency kit has plenty of handwarmers for the bridal party and tissues for runny noses (& happy tears!) Creating a welcome bag for your out of town guests? Consider including hats, scarves, warm tea & any other cozy staples that may be forgotten!
Haylee + Andrew’s day captured by Clay House Photography
Choose winter cocktails & wines that complement the season
“I think winter cocktails are truly the best of the year. You can take any classic cocktail and turn it into something winter themed by substituting ingredients,” according to Makayla Womack, one of our talented Sixpence Mixologists. “Pomegranate, cranberry, nutmeg, cinnamon, pear, & rosemary are all fall/winter flavors that can be added to margaritas, Cosmos, Moscow mules, etc. Additionally, there’s mulled wine for the extremely cold days which can be enhanced with apples, cinnamon, and clove. Having red wine during the winter is also comforting with its more earthy notes and spiced finish. Overall, you cannot go wrong with any style of winter sips!”
Pack an extra pair of shoes for outdoor photos
Don’t let the colder weather keep you from getting unforgettable photos. We recommend packing an extra pair of shoes to help you be the most comfortable & to ensure that your brand new wedding shoes don’t get ruined by snowy/slushy conditions.
Captured by Clay House Photography
See more from Rachel + Cody’s romantic, snowy winter wedding at The Sixpence
See more from Haylee + Andrew’s unforgettable wedding day at The Sixpence
Are you ready for your big day? Early in the planning process? We’re committed to bringing you inspiration, resources, and recommendations to help design your dream day. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @the_sixpence to stay in the loop.
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