I’m a fan of the underdog, and weddings are no exception to that rule. While the peak summer months have their charms, off-season weddings in winter hold a special place in my heart. Not only do they offer the opportunity for some wallet-friendly planning – with many venues offering discounted rates for winter weddings – they also come with an added dose of cosy, twinkly atmosphere.
Whether you’re a fan of Nordic hygge with its traditionally muted tones and luxuriously chunky knits, or dreaming of a full-on festive fantasy, a winter wedding offers a wealth of styling and photography possibilities.
Why Winter Weddings Are Wonderful
The Light
You may think of long winter nights and darkness drawing in, but the change in light can work in your favour for winter weddings. Low sun means softer light, casting dreamy hues over your day and your photographs. When the sun does set, it’s also an opportunity to bring lights inside, and create your own warm and glowing little world to shut out the night. Think of a fire blazing merrily in the grate, sparkling candlelight, fairy lights galore – I’m feeling romantic already!
The Party Spirit
At any time of the year, your wedding is a chance for celebration, but plan a big day in one of the winter months and your guests will most definitely be ready to party. If you choose a wedding date at the end of the year, there’s the anticipation of Christmas, the happy nostalgia of a year well spent, and the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ mindset that will guarantee you a packed dancefloor and a room ringing with laughter. Or why not plan a wedding celebration in January, when many are feeling the post party blues? Yours will be a bright spot on a cold social calendar, and will have people jumping at the chance to attend.
The Possibility Of Snow
I’m dreaming of a white wedding… Now, yes, I know that snowfall can wreak havoc with transport and upset plans. It’s also really very cold (!), but I there is nothing quite as magical as spending some newly wedded moments among softly falling flakes. Snow softens the world’s edges and colours, and makes you the stars of your own black and white film. If you’re lucky enough to wake to the white stuff on your winter wedding day, then look past the practicalities and the stress if you can, and enjoy your own personal winter wonderland.
The Added Intimacy
When faced with cold weather, huddle together! If it’s freezing outside, you’ll necessarily have less space to play with as guests will want to avoid the shivers, and stay clustered inside, no matter how gorgeous your venue’s gardens might be. Embrace this added intimacy and run with it. A winter wedding provides many opportunities for you and your guests to get cosy. Settle down with a warming winter cocktail for a fireside chat, set up fire pits and snuggly blankets outside to sit and watch the stars while toasting marshmallows. Make the atmosphere of your winter wedding as inclusive and heartwarming as a hand knitted jumper and you’re on to a winner.
The C Word
Let’s do it – let’s go there. Say ‘I do’ in a Christmas scene, filled with mince pies and mulled wine. Deck the halls with holly, and rock a festive day from start to finish. I know that this time of year can sometimes feel like a consumerist onslaught, and as decorations start appearing in shops earlier and earlier, Christmas can be a bit of a dirty word. However, I firmly believe that there’s still real magic at its heart, no matter how old you are. If your Christmas wedding is merry and bright, and filled to the brim with comfort and joy, and you can’t go too far wrong.
If you’re planning a winter wedding and looking for a photographer to capture the magic, why not get in touch? I’d love to hear about your plans.
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