Have your heart set on a winter wedding for your big day? It’s an unorthodox choice—nearly three-quarters of nuptials take place between May and October—yet if done correctly, a beautiful one. The season, after all, arrives with so many emblems of romance: roaring fires, snow-blanketed landscapes, cozy yet chic fashion, crimson blooms… this writer could go on. (There is, after all, a reason the phrase “winter wonderland” exists.)
But the question is: how do you execute an ethereal affair during the less traditional—and likely cold—time of year? Vogue reached out to multiple companies that specialize in January, February, and March weddings: 42 North, based in Northern Massachusetts, Bluebird Productions, located in Aspen, Augusta Cole in New York City, and event destination specialist Stefanie Cove. They had many dos (like heaters), and some don’ts (like skimping on heaters). But they all agreed on one thing, summed up best by Bluebird’s founder Virginia Frischkorn: “Winter weddings are magical.”
Below, their expert thoughts on wedding planning, from “I do” to the wedding reception.
Do:
Send out save-the-dates in advance.
The winter months can get busy with holiday festivities, so give your guests the best opportunity of attending by planning ahead. “If you’re set on a date surrounding a major holiday, make sure you send your save-the-dates well in advance,” say Britt Cole and Francie Dorman, founders of 42 North. If you’re looking to cut costs on your budget (and save the trees), send wedding invitations digitally.
Plan for shorter days.
“The sun sets the earliest in the winter,” says Cole. “You may want to consider an earlier wedding ceremony time if you want daylight photos or plan for a first look.”
Always have a backup plan…or two.
“Have plans A-F ready to go,” says Frischkorn. “Winter weddings have the tendency to be higher-risk events when one considers travel delays for guests and possible weather issues. We suggest all our clients be prepared for wind, rain, snow, and flight delays and think about the ‘what if’s’.”
Set a cold-weather-appropriate dress code.
In colder climates, be flexible with the dress code for your winter wedding guests and bridesmaids. “One of my favorite weddings took place in the mountains and everyone wore white and denim,” shares Cove. “It was very cool and definitely a memorable experience for everyone.”
Ensure your guests stay warm.
Never underestimate the winter weather. “You’ll want and need more heaters should any portion of your event be outside,” says Frischkorn. “Tents and venues like barns may not have great heat either—be sure to consult with your planner and venue to make sure it will be warm enough to keep your guests comfortable.”
Frischkorn adds, “We are big fans of offering hand warmers on a tray and warm blankets on the back of ceremony chairs should the ceremony be outside.” Cole and Dorman also recommend complimentary shawls and fire pits, which keep your guests warm and add to your winter wonderland wedding aesthetic.
Offer hot welcome drinks and cocktails.
“Serve hot drinks upon arrival and departure,” says Frischkorn. “We love greeting all of the guests at our winter weddings with a hot cider, hot toddy, or hot chocolate.”
Embrace the wedding theme.
“Use your wintery date as an opportunity to embrace seasonal vegetables, wines, and maybe even a hot soup for your first course,” says Cole and Dorman. “You don’t need to go overboard with holiday thematics but having a small nod to the season through decor, floral or food will acknowledge the spirit of the season in a tasteful way.” Jewel-tone floral arrangements, resembling miniature emerald green Christmas trees, are a stylish option for your bouquet and table décor centerpieces.