Imagine walking down the aisle, the world around you dusted in snow, the air crisp with a gentle chill, and twinkling lights casting a warm glow. If this sounds like the wedding of your dreams, then a winter-themed wedding at The Sixpence might be just the thing for you. Welcome to your guide to creating a truly enchanting winter-themed wedding!
Why Choose a Winter-Themed Wedding?
Winter weddings are pure magic. There’s something undeniably romantic about the season, the cozy atmosphere, the sparkle of frost, and the charm of holiday cheer.
Why Winter? The Unique Benefits
Opting for a winter wedding comes with a host of perks. For starters, it’s an off-season for weddings, meaning you’ll likely find more availability at your dream venue, potentially at a lower cost. Winter also allows for some unique creative touches, like cozy accessories for the wedding party and guests or a hot cocoa bar at the reception. Plus, the natural beauty of winter provides a stunning backdrop for your photos.
In the winter months, The Sixpence is Indiana’s go-to spot for a magical winter event and winter wedding venue. Our three cozy, purpose-built spaces are perfect for up to 300 guests, offering a snowy canvas that transforms into a uniquely enchanting setting just for you.
Planning Essentials
Planning a winter-themed wedding offers a unique set of opportunities and considerations, from choosing the perfect date to budgeting wisely. Here’s how to make the most of the season and ensure your wedding is everything you’ve dreamed of.
Setting the Date
While any winter month can be magical, December through February are prime for capturing the festive spirit of the season. If you’re dreaming of a snowy wedding, aim for January or February, when you’re most likely to get that fresh blanket of snow. Just keep an eye on weather conditions and plan for a backup if the forecast looks iffy.
Budgeting for a Winter Wedding
Winter weddings can be more budget-friendly since they’re off-season for most wedding venues and vendors. With the money you save, you can splurge on other areas, like an incredible winter menu or over-the-top décor. Prioritize winter wedding ideas that will enhance the winter theme, such as luxurious fabrics for your attire or extra lighting to create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Venue Selection
Selecting the right venue is one of the most exciting aspects of planning your winter wedding. Whether you envision a cozy indoor gathering or a magical outdoor celebration, your venue will set the stage for your special day.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues
Winter weddings can shine with both indoor and outdoor venues, each offering its charm. For an indoor celebration, cozy mansions or lodges create an intimate, warm atmosphere perfect for the season. If you prefer an outdoor setting, a snow-covered garden or mountain resort can provide a magical, fairy-tale backdrop. Just remember to include heating arrangements like outdoor heaters and fire pits to keep everyone comfortable while enjoying the winter wonderland.
Venue Decorations
Winter weddings offer a chance to create a cozy, elegant escape with your venue decorations. Embrace the season’s charm by using soft whites, icy blues, and silvers for a cool, crisp look, or go for deep jewel tones like emerald and sapphire for added luxury and warmth. Lighting is key to setting the ambiance—think flickering candles, twinkling fairy lights, and elegant chandeliers to enhance the winter wonderland vibe and make your venue inviting and magical.
Nestled on 17 acres of winter wonderland, complete with a charming creek and snowy rolling hills, you too can have a dreamy, magical setting that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Wedding Attire
Winter weddings offer a unique opportunity to play with textures, layers, and luxurious details that might not be as practical in warmer seasons. From the bride’s stunning gown to the groom’s dapper suit, there are countless ways to embrace the winter season while staying stylish and cozy.
Bridal Gowns
Winter is the season to indulge in rich, luxurious fabrics for your wedding dress that feels as good as they look. Velvet, satin, and lace in rich jewel tones are all perfect choices for a winter bridal gown, offering both warmth and elegance. Long sleeves are making a big comeback, and they’re not just practical; they add an air of timeless sophistication. To keep the chill at bay while adding a touch of glamor to your wedding dress, consider accessorizing with a faux fur stole, a chic shawl, or even a dramatic cape and hair accessories. These pieces not only keep you warm but also elevate your entire look, making you feel like a true winter queen.
You don’t have to sacrifice style for warmth. A well-fitted suit or tuxedo in a rich fabric will keep things classic, while a sophisticated overcoat can add an extra layer of warmth and polish. Winter accessories like scarves, gloves, and even a stylish hat can bring a dash of personality to a great groom look.
Bridal Party Outfits
Your bridal party deserves to look and feel fabulous too! Coordinate their outfits in winter tones like deep reds, emerald greens, or icy blues while providing them with cozy accessories that complement their attire. Shawls, gloves, and even matching scarves can keep them warm while adding a cohesive, elegant touch to your wedding’s overall aesthetic.
Floral Arrangements
Floral arrangements at a winter wedding offer a wonderful opportunity to blend the beauty of the season with the romance of your special day.
Seasonal Flowers and Foliage
Winter may not seem like the most obvious time for flowers, but there’s a surprising variety of blooms and foliage that thrive in the colder months. Roses, with their timeless elegance, are always a popular choice, while amaryllis adds a bold, dramatic flair. Holly, with its vibrant red berries and glossy leaves, brings a festive touch that’s perfect for a winter wedding. To complement these flowers, consider lush greenery like pine, eucalyptus, and mistletoe. These not only add texture and fullness to your arrangements but also infuse the air with a fresh, wintry scent that guests will love.
Bouquets and Boutonnieres
Your bouquets and boutonnieres are where you can really have fun with wintery details. Imagine the bride’s bouquet with white roses, sprigs of pine, and a few pine cones nestled among the flowers. Or a boutonniere featuring a single amaryllis bloom paired with holly berries and a touch of sparkle.
These little touches not only tie the whole winter wedding theme perfectly together but also make each piece unique and memorable.
Ceremony Details
A winter wedding ceremony has the potential to feel like something out of a storybook, with the season’s natural beauty adding an extra layer of enchantment to your special day.
Ceremony Setting and Decor
Transform your ceremony space into a winter wonderland wedding with just a few well-chosen winter wedding decorations. Imagine walking down an aisle adorned with delicate snowflakes, glistening as they catch the light. Ice sculptures can add an element of artistry and elegance, reflecting the icy beauty of the season. Scattered pine cones bring in a woodland touch, grounding the wedding decor in nature and adding texture to the overall look. These small details work together to create a ceremony space that feels like a frosty fairytale coming to life.
Vows and Readings
Winter is a season often associated with warmth, despite the cold weather outside. What better metaphor is there for love? Incorporating winter wedding themes into your vows can add a poetic touch, making your promises even more meaningful. Consider drawing winter wedding inspiration from the season’s contrasts: the warmth of love against the chill of winter, the way snow blankets the world in quiet beauty, or how evergreen trees stand tall and strong through the harshest storms.
Reception Planning
A winter wedding reception is the perfect opportunity to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where your guests can relax and enjoy the season’s cozy charm.
Winter Menu Selections
When planning your winter wedding menu, think about dishes that bring warmth and comfort while still feeling elegant and refined. Start with seasonal appetizers that showcase the best of winter’s flavors; perhaps a roasted butternut squash soup or a savory tart topped with caramelized onions and goat cheese. For the main course, consider hearty options like braised short ribs or a rich, creamy risotto that will satisfy your guests and keep them warm on a chilly evening. And don’t forget the drinks! Offering warm beverages like mulled wine, hot cocoa, or even a signature winter cocktail can add a special touch and keep the festive spirit alive.
Dessert and Cake Ideas
When it comes to desserts, winter is the perfect time to indulge in rich, comforting flavors. Your winter wedding cakes can be showstoppers, both in flavor and design. Imagine a spiced wedding cake with layers of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, or a decadent chocolate cake with white frosting that looks like freshly fallen snow. A dessert table filled with an assortment of treats can add a cozy, welcoming vibe to your reception. For an extra touch of elegance, add winter-inspired decorations like sugar snowflakes, pinecones, or a dusting of edible glitter. For something extra indulgent, consider including hot desserts like bread pudding, molten chocolate cakes, or even mini apple crisps served warm.
Entertainment and Music
The right entertainment and music can set the tone for your winter-themed wedding, making it a night to remember for you and your guests.
Live Bands and DJs
Choosing between a live band and a DJ for your winter wedding depends on the vibe you want to create. A live band brings an energetic, dynamic feel to the reception, with the ability to adapt their performance to the mood of the crowd. On the other hand, a DJ offers versatility, with the ability to mix your favorite winter tunes seamlessly, creating the perfect playlist for every moment, from the first dance to the last.
Popular Winter Wedding Songs
To embrace the season, you might incorporate some popular winter wedding songs into your playlist. Songs like “Winter Wonderland” and “Let It Snow” can add a festive touch, while classics like “At Last” by Etta James or “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley offer timeless romance. If you’re looking for something more modern, consider Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” or “All of Me” by John Legend, both of which have a warm, intimate feel that’s perfect for a winter wedding.
Interactive Entertainment
Elevate your winter-themed wedding with interactive entertainment that adds a playful and nostalgic touch to your celebration. Consider setting up an ice skating rink, offering magical sleigh rides, or creating cozy fire pits for guests to enjoy between events. Enhance the fun with a photo booth featuring winter-themed props like scarves, faux fur hats, and snowflake glasses, giving your guests memorable keepsakes and a delightful experience they won’t soon forget.
Wedding Favors
Send your guests home with thoughtful winter-themed favors that capture the season’s charm and keep the memories of your special day alive. Consider personalized keepsakes like ornaments, snow globes, or candles, which add a touch of winter magic and practicality. Edible treats like hot cocoa mixes, cookies, or mini pies also make delightful, cozy gifts. These small tokens will remind your guests of the warmth and joy of your winter wedding long after the snow has melted.
Photography and Videography
Winter weddings are truly magical, and the season provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and videos that capture your special day. From the soft glow of natural light to the sparkling snow, there’s so much to embrace. Here’s how to make the most of your winter-themed wedding through photography and videography.
Capturing Winter Moments
Winter’s charm can make your wedding photos truly magical. The snow adds romance and wonder, while the crisp air and soft winter light create an ethereal quality perfect for capturing intimate moments. Plan for enchanting shots like a snowy stroll or a cozy fireside moment, and make sure to highlight the season’s details such as sparkling snow, winter-themed decor, and candid shots of guests enjoying the festivities. Take advantage of the soft, flattering winter light, and don’t forget to stay warm with cozy blankets between shots for the most memorable photos.
Videography Tips
To make your wedding video extra special, highlight the wintry elements that set the scene. Capture the snowy landscape, cozy venue interiors, and winter-themed decorations. Slow-motion clips of falling snow or a close-up of your first dance with snowflakes in the background can be particularly enchanting. Enhance the seasonal charm with aerial shots of the snowy venue, candid moments of guests enjoying winter activities, and music that complements the wintry mood, creating a cherished keepsake of your special day.
Travel and Accommodation
Planning travel and accommodation for your out-of-town guests is a thoughtful way to ensure everyone has a smooth and enjoyable experience at your winter-themed wedding.
Guest Accommodation Options
When planning guest accommodations for your winter wedding, choose cozy and conveniently located options that enhance the season’s charm. Look for hotels or inns with warm, inviting atmospheres, and consider booking a block of rooms at a discount to simplify things for your guests. Aim for accommodations that are well-reviewed and close to transportation and local attractions, ensuring your guests have a comfortable stay and easy access to the wedding festivities.
Transportation Arrangements
Winter weather can make travel tricky, so plan your transportation carefully to ensure your guests have safe and reliable options. Arrange for shuttle services or car rentals suited for winter conditions, and provide information on local transportation, including public transit and ride-sharing. Consider adding a magical touch with unique options like horse-drawn carriages or sleigh rides to enhance the winter wonderland theme and create memorable experiences for your guests.
The Homestead, a charming mid-1800s saltbox farmhouse, is the perfect cozy retreat at The Sixpence this winter. With room for up to 10 guests, a comfy lounge, a festive dining area, and a beautiful deck blanketed in snow, it’s the ideal spot to warm up and unwind.
Eco-Friendly Winter Weddings
Embracing an eco-friendly approach for your winter wedding is a fantastic way to celebrate your special day while caring for the environment.
Sustainable Practices
Incorporating sustainability into your winter-themed wedding can add a meaningful touch to your celebration. Embrace eco-friendly practices by using digital invitations to cut paper waste and opting for recycled or biodegradable décor like fabric bunting or potted plants. Choose local and seasonal flowers and food to reduce your carbon footprint and support community vendors. By planning and making green choices, you can host a beautiful, environmentally-conscious wedding that reflects your values.
Minimizing Carbon Footprint
Minimizing your carbon footprint for your wedding involves making eco-friendly choices in energy use, waste management, and transportation. Opt for compostable or reusable serviceware and incorporate recycling and composting. Encourage green transportation options by arranging group shuttles or providing public transit information, and consider eco-friendly options like electric cars or biking. For favors, choose practical items like reusable tote bags, plantable seed packets, or local, sustainable goods that your guests will appreciate and use long after the event.
Health and Safety Considerations
Ensuring the health and safety of your guests is key to a successful winter wedding. With a bit of planning, you can make sure everyone is comfortable, secure, and able to fully enjoy your special day.
Keeping Guests Comfortable
Winter weddings can be magical, but keeping guests warm and cozy is key. Provide thoughtful touches like blankets, shawls, and hand warmers, especially if you have outdoor elements. Ensure venue safety by keeping walkways clear of ice, providing adequate heating indoors, and having clear emergency plans. These little comforts and precautions will help everyone feel at ease and enjoy your special day, no matter the weather.
COVID-19 Precautions
To keep your winter wedding safe and enjoyable, consider implementing COVID-19 precautions like requiring proof of vaccination or negative test results, providing hand sanitizing stations, and having a plan for managing any concerns. For winter-specific safety, ensure outdoor areas are well-heated and supervised, and provide clear safety guidelines for activities like ice skating. Offering virtual attendance options can also help include guests who can’t be there in person, making sure they feel part of your special day. Don’t forget to test all technology in advance for a seamless virtual experience.
Summary
A winter wedding at The Sixpence is both a celebration and an experience filled with warmth, magic, and unforgettable moments. By embracing the unique beauty of the season, you can create a wedding day that’s as enchanting as a snow-covered wonderland. So bundle up, sip some hot cocoa, and start planning the winter wedding of your dreams!
