It may seem hard to believe, but the end of summer is almost upon us. In just a little over four months it will be the beginning of the holiday season, heavy coats and snow boots will come out of storage, and the ground will be covered with a blanket of soft, white snow. In the wedding industry, the beginning of winter means that our busiest time of year will come to a close. It is understandable why most brides prefer the idea of getting married in the late spring and throughout the summer; the weather is warmer, the days are longer, everything is in bloom, and there is a carefree, easygoing essence that does not seem to exist in any of the other three seasons. However, there is a certain magical quality about bare tree branches covered in icicles and snowflakes gently falling from the sky - things that cannot be found during the summer- that can help to set the scene for a beautiful wedding.
1) Less Expensive
This is arguably the best reason to tie the knot during the winter. January, February and March (a.k.a the "deep winter") are the least popular months to get married, which means that your favorite reception spot will more likely be available as opposed to if you were looking at a Saturday in June or July. Since these months are also considered to be the "off-season" for the wedding industry, some vendors may be willing to negotiate prices and give you better deals on their services since they might be in need of some extra business during this somewhat slow time of year. If you have guests from out of town, hotel rates are also most likely going to be less expensive during this time of year in most parts of the country. Keep in mind though, that if you are planning a December or Valentine`s Day weekend wedding, you and your guests may have to shell out extra cash since hotel rates will most likely increase during those times of year.
2) Know of a Better Way to Beat the Winter Blues?
We all know the feeling: the excitement and joy of the holiday season are over and it finally sinks in- it is winter. All of a sudden it has finally dawned on us that the days are shorter, it is bitterly cold, and we have to wake up an extra half an hour early so that we can scrape the ice and snow off of our car in order to get to work on time. A wedding serves as a way to break everyone out of their hibernation mentality by giving them a reason to get dressed up, eat a delicious meal, and dance the night away to some great music all while celebrating the nuptials of their loved ones.
3) Stunning Decor
Think of the beautiful images that your photographer will capture on your big day! Whether you are having a Christmas feel at your wedding with reds and greens or a more sleek, sophisticated combination of grays, whites and midnight blue, there are many decor ideas beyond the traditional "winter wonderland" theme. A personal favorite of mine? A cozier, rustic feel with rich reds and golds and accents of tartan. Rather than the classic floral centerpiece that most spring/summer brides have at their receptions, floating candles in votives surrounded by a wreath or branches spray painted silver with strands of crystals hanging from them are more unique and provide a more romantic, whimsical feel to the reception space.
4) Season Specific Favors
While couples who get married in the warmer months sometimes have candy bars or dessert stations at their receptions, imagine having a hot chocolate or hot apple cider bar at your winter wedding! Take advantage of the colder weather by providing your guests with cozy blankets or warm gloves as wedding favors. Having a Christmas wedding? Send your guests home with an ornament commemorating your special day. An idea for a New Years Eve wedding? Instead of using place cards, attach a label with the guests` names and table numbers to a mini bottle of champagne that will help get the party started even before the reception begins.
5) Attire
One of my favorite bridal looks is a pure white ballgown with a luxurious fur stole wrapped around her shoulders. Getting married in the colder months means having the opportunity to wear a long, elegant white coat with matching gloves on your wedding day. Offset the glittering snow with sparkling hair accessories and jewelry! Some of my favorite images from real weddings that took place during the winter months depict the bridal party standing outside with snowflakes falling all around them, wearing their long coats and showing off matching boots.
Considering planning a winter wedding? Visit our "Winter Wedding Ideas" board on Pinterest for more inspiration! https://www.pinterest.com/lisamarieuncutt/winter-wedding-ideas/.