How to Host the Perfect Winter Wedding
Winter weddings are a bit like marmite: some people love them, and some people hate them. With cold weather and very little light, it can be intimidating to plan one – will there be enough for people to do if they can’t go outside? Will the venue be warm enough? What if it snows?
I’ve photographed a variety of winter weddings (including one where the ground was covered with a thick layer of ice!) and I can categorically say that they’re some of my favourites. Those deep berry colour palettes, the warm glow of candles as they light up the room... what’s not to love? Plus, a winter wedding will usually work out to be significantly cheaper than a summer one, as winter is considered to be ‘off-peak’ to the majority of suppliers and venues.
So here’s my advice for anyone who’s currently planning their big day. Whether you’ve already booked your date or you’re umming and ahhing over the idea of a winter wedding, this guide should hopefully help you out.
The Light
One thing that can really put couples off wanting a winter wedding is the light. From the middle of October until the end of December, the days get shorter and shorter until the sun is setting at around 3pm. The days might start getting longer after that, but it’s not until May that you’re back to the 7:30/8:30pm sunset times.
But trust me – it’s not as scary as it sounds. It all comes down to timings. If you know you want to get married in the winter, try to book an earlier time slot for your ceremony, between 12pm and 2pm. Ceremonies generally take around half an hour, which leaves plenty of time for some couple portraits and family photos. Plan out your family photos so that they won’t take longer than half an hour, and get a bridesmaid or groomsman to help out by calling people’s names to ensure the process is smooth and nobody is stood waiting in the cold.
If you’re unable to book an earlier ceremony, that’s not a problem. Most, if not all, trained wedding photographers should know how to work with off-camera flash systems, which are basically small, portable studio lights. OCF (off-camera flash) means those outdoor photos are no longer an impossibility when it’s getting dark outside, and indoor areas can be transformed into atmospheric studio environments. When booking a wedding photographer for a winter wedding, it’s important to check that they can work in low light situations and know how to use flash or OCF.
The Outfits
How many summer weddings have I been to where the groom is in a thick three-piece suit, sweating it out until the photos are done and he can take off his jacket? A lot! A full suit obviously looks a lot more formal and smart than a shirt and trousers, so most couples will opt for one despite the weather. But in winter, you’ll be grateful for the warmth.
On the other hand, it can be quite difficult to find a wedding dress that will keep you warm for a winter wedding. I would highly recommend finding something that you can sling over your shoulders for a short while, such as a faux fur stole in the same colour as your bridesmaids’ dresses, a cape, or a shawl. For those more on the alternative side, there are some amazing leather jackets you can pick up that are hand-painted with your married name on the back. If you can, wear tights under your dress.
When it comes to bridesmaids dresses, you’re lucky in that you’re not restricted by the colour palette. Deep burgundy or berry purple work amazingly for winter weddings but can look out of place in the summer – however summery pastel tones still work just as well in winter.
The Venue
A lot of wedding venues are quite specifically catered to summer weddings, with tonnes of outdoor space and not much room inside for anything but the tables, dance floor and bar. When searching for your venue, keep in mind that the cold temperatures and low light will make your guests want to stay inside. You’ll need a venue with a bit more internal space, and should make extra sure that their heating systems are working – many older barns or manor houses will be running on out-of-date systems.
However, there are also many venues out there that will have outdoor spaces designed for just such an occasion. Fire pits or outdoor heaters, cosy blankets and a warm drink station (forget ‘pimp my prosecco’, how about ‘pimp my hot chocolate’?!) are enough to create a comfortable and welcoming area outside for those wanting a breath of fresh air.
A winter wedding also gives you so much opportunity for decoration. Candles, large greenery installations and rustic elements work so well to warm up a room in winter, while wreaths, Christmas trees and white details will make for an elegant Christmas theme. Those deep berry colours mentioned above; rich red rose bouquets; long tables with flowing table runners; pine cone place markers; fairy lights throughout the venue; mulled wine wedding favours... well, the possibilities are endless.
The Weather
When planning our own wedding, my now-husband and I made sure to check historic weather data about the dates we had chosen, which really helped us narrow it down – but this isn’t a foolproof method. In fact, what was meant to be a moderately warm day for us ended up being a full-on heatwave! It’s difficult if not impossible to predict the weather, especially when you’re planning for something more than a year in advance.
What you can do, however, is plan for every outcome. Bulk buy cheap umbrellas for your guests (and clear ones for you and your betrothed), and bring wellies in case of rain. Ask your guests and suppliers to set off at least an hour earlier than would normally be expected, just in case they end up having transport issues.
Consider hosting your ceremony and reception at the same venue, to avoid having to travel between locations. If the weather turns, this may cause more hassle than it’s worth.
The Food
I, like many people, am of the opinion that food is fuel – not decoration. This is especially true for winter weddings, where the cold air, flickering candlelight and early sunset mean your guests will need a boost of energy before heading out onto the dance floor.
Carveries and hog roasts are a great way to warm up and fill up your guests while also giving out major Christmas dinner vibes. A hearty meal is perfect for a winter wedding, and will keep your guests going for the rest of the evening. If a big roast isn’t really your thing, work with your caterer to include seasonal produce in your meal options, like locally-sourced vegetables and meat. Grazing platters and charcuterie boards are also a popular option for the winter months, filled with baked cheeses, seasonal herby vegetables and cured meats.
For drinks, consider offering warm options such as mulled wine, hot apple cider or luxury hot chocolate for a non-alcoholic alternative that can be enjoyed by adults (me) and children alike.
Are you planning a winter wedding? I’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re looking for a photographer or simply some planning advice, feel free to get in touch via my contact page.
