Planning Your Whimsical Winter Wedding

Winter isn’t – traditionally – wedding season. 

The cold, snowy weather here in the Midwest usually isn’t ideal for a matrimonial affair – however, that doesn’t mean a winter wedding can’t be magical. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of benefits to having a wedding in the colder months many couples don’t even consider. For one, venues tend to be a lot cheaper, as you’re booking during the venues off season, and two, your guests are much less likely to miss due to another wedding being booked the same weekend. Not sounding like such a bad idea after all, is it? 

Whether you’re just toying with the idea of planning a winter wedding, or ready to start booking vendors, here are some tips you can use to help ensure your winter vows are as beautiful and cozy as possible. 

Don’t be Deceived

Like mentioned above, many venues and vendors offer big discounts during the winter months on weddings – but, that doesn’t mean everything is all it’s cracked up to be. Venues or vendors could offer a deal that seems too good to be true, and most of the time, it’s because it is. Either they’re not giving you the entire space to use, there’s no heat or they’re offering much less than they do during the traditional season because staff is low. 

The best thing you can do while booking is ask questions. Make sure you understand everything that’s included with either your venue or the vendor packages. What’s advertised online is likely what comes with booking during the spring, summer or fall, but there is room for bargaining power as winter weddings are few and far between – and they’ll want your business. 

Keep it Cozy

When it comes to the wedding itself, one of the best additions I’ve seen in recent years is adding in a s’more station or fondue fountain. Both of these are staples at winter recreation resorts across the world, and adding them to your nuptials not only serves as a nice snack, but also as a trendy decor piece. 

Another thing I love – blankets. Especially in the colder winter months when guests are wearing dresses and heels, having a blanket set at each place setting ensures everyone is comfortable and ready to celebrate. If you’d like, you can take it up a notch and personalize the blankets with your wedding hashtag, last name, initials or more. 

Make it Yours

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, it’s your wedding day. Make sure you’re incorporating all the elements that make it just that. That means blocking out the noise of what anyone else wants, and sticking to what’s true to your love story. 

Having a winter wedding is unique in its own right, but always make sure you’re doing everything you need to do to make it the best day of you and your partner’s life.