Winter is fast approaching us, in just a few short weeks the leaves will begin to fall from the trees and the temperatures will drop, and if we’re lucky we might even get some snow. While most couples choose to get married in the warmer summer months, a winter wedding can be spectacular, and far cheaper too.

 

What could be more romantic than getting married near the holidays? Everyone’s in the party mood; Christmas decorations make your venue that little bit more unique, dove grey and pale blue bridesmaids dresses will pop beautifully and, if you’re lucky, your wedding pictures might be blessed with a scattering of snow!

 

Find the ultimate winter wedding look

 

Strapless might be out but you can still look amazing on your wedding day – perhaps a lace-sleeved dress could work well complete with a crushed velvet wrap around to keep your shoulders warm? Winter is all about the sparkles so along with your engagement ring and wedding ring, frost yourself in gorgeous diamond pieces of jewellery (or faux diamond if you’re on a budget) and ensure that you sparkle like a winter morning’s frost.

 

Create Your Own Winter Wonderland

 

Think Disney’s Frozen; glittering icicles, fairy forests, and Santa’s grotto and you’ll soon transform your humdrum venue into a sparkling, spectacular ice palace that’ll wow your guests and have your wedding photographer snapping away. Place winter branches in large vases, spray paint them silver for extra magic and festoon them with fake berries and twinkling fairy lights. Incorporate blue uplighting to create that enchanted feel and scatter snowflakes down an aisle lined with glowing lanterns.

 

Let Guests Snuggle Up In Style

 

If you know your wedding ceremony is taking place outside, or in a chilly venue, treat your guests to some cozy cashmere blankets or slippers. They’ll love the feel of soft, delicate wool around their shoulders, plus you’ll be known as the best bride ever for making sure everyone stays nice and toasty! Cashmere wraps and personalized gloves are also the perfect gift for bridesmaids as those chiffon dresses don’t have many layers!

 

Don’t Forget Those Winter Warmers

 

Why not serve winter Pimms, mulled wine and spiced apple cider during your cocktail hour? You could even go one step further and have a make your own smores stand! Other festive treats might include mini mince pies, coloured candy canes, and homemade gingerbread biscuits, after all, it will be nearly Christmas! If you’re planning a buffet style wedding reception why not choose hot, hearty dishes such as beef wellington, lasagne, and winter vegetable soup with fresh rolls? Followed up by a lovely sticky toffee pudding with creamy custard for dessert or a festive spiced apple crumble and clotted cream.

 

Firelight Burning Bright

 

For a beautiful, meaningful photo opportunity once darkness has fallen have your guests head outside with a sparkler each. Ask your coordinator to get your guests to form a giant heart and then you both step into the middle each holding sparklers. The photographer will then find a suitable window at the venue and take the shot from above, not only will it be a magical photo but guests will love the chance to trail golden sparks through the crisp, clear air. Make sure that you have plenty of buckets filled with sand once the sparklers have burnt out as flames and floor-length trains don’t mix!

 

Make A Christmassy Entrance

 

Forget the limousine, or Mercedes and don’t even think about a convertible in this weather! Embrace the spirit of the season and hire a horse-drawn sleigh in which to make your entrance, for extra fun, ask if the horses can have little antlers on their heads. Make sure you’re wearing a fluffy winter cape or shawl because sleighs don’t have heating or a roof! For a show-stopping welcome arrange for a choir to sing Christmas carols by lantern light as guests wait for you to arrive with your new husband.