Winter can be one of the most magical times of the year, and when you choose your wedding date in winter, you create an event and anniversary that will warm even the coldest winter night. With the peace and serenity of freshly fallen snow, the warmth and satisfaction of thawing out after being chilled, and the beauty of jeweled colors and winter foliage, there is so much to explore for a winter wedding. We’ll explore some of the best ideas below and offer tips and tricks for winter bridal gowns, venues, menus, and more to bring out the charm and uniqueness of winter wedding bliss.
Winter Wedding Venue Inspiration
When planning for a winter wedding, you don’t have to stress about whether your outdoor venue will get rained out or if there will be large temperature swings. Instead, plan in advance for the cold and make your guests and space as comfortable as possible. There are many different outdoor and indoor venue options for winter weddings. Some of our favorites include:
Cozy Rustic Barns
Barns provide some of the most magical outdoor venues for winter weddings while still providing a warm place protected by the elements and spacious enough for large groups, dining, and dancing. For rustic and outdoor-themed weddings, barns offer a beautiful backdrop and are easy to spruce up with winter greenery, twinkle lights, candles, and more. Many barns have also been converted into venue rentals, so you don’t have to worry about transforming a space to be wedding-ready, and many are located in suburbs and neighborhoods, so travel isn’t difficult.
Elegant Ballrooms
Consider booking a ballroom for your wedding celebrations for an exquisite and opulent feel. Ballrooms are glamorous and are the perfect backdrop for glittering gowns and memorable wedding celebrations. Choosing jewel colors such as emerald, ruby, sapphire, and amethyst with gold or silver for your wedding colors will make everything feel rich and luxurious. Decorate with mirrors, crystal, and metals to make things sparkle and shine. You can also use velvet or satin for table runners, floral arrangements, and sashes to tie your decorations together literally and figuratively.
Snowy Garden Settings
Smaller indoor venues nestled in snowy gardens are also a great way to have an outdoor feel with the comfort of warmth and protection from the elements. Consider expanding outside if the venue permits with covered pavilions and portable heaters. You can decorate with bare branches, twinkle lights, faux icicles, and more.
Winter Wedding Menu
The menu for your winter wedding is critical to bringing comfort and warmth to you and your guests during the celebrations. Provide warm dishes and drinks that are hearty and filling, and your guests will thank you! There are a variety of filling and comforting main course options that can be meat or vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Some of our favorite options include:
- Soups and stews
- Pot pies
- Roast dinners
- Stuffed bell peppers or mushrooms
Hot cocoa bars are a fun way to spread warmth and cheer among your guests. You can pair it with desserts that embrace the season and the sweet tooth, like donuts, holiday cookies, cupcakes, and more. You can also consider other hot drinks, like mulled cider or herbal teas. Be creative with your winter theme in both your food and beverage choices.
Warm and Cozy Wedding Attire
Comfortable wedding dresses are a must for winter weddings. You will be in your gown for pictures, the ceremony, the reception, and more, and you want a dress that will keep you comfortable and warm. Long-sleeved dresses for a winter wedding are an excellent option for both the bride and bridesmaids, and there are so many luxurious fabrics and designs to choose from that are unique to winter wear.
Long-Sleeved Gowns
Winter bridal gowns with sleeves are elegant, flowy, and simply stunning. They are also more universal, and many can be worn during religious weddings and sealings that stipulate long sleeves. Choose a gown you feel beautiful in. You can embellish it with lace, beads, sequins, or sashes. Don’t be afraid to layer or include generous long sleeves or a train. Some of our favorite winter fabrics include:
- Velvet
- Thick Lace
- Beaded fabric
- Tulle
Check out our LDS modest wedding dresses for your winter wedding.
Faux Fur Wraps and Shawls
You can embellish your bridal look with a faux fur wrap or shawl. Doing so brings depth to your outfit, unique and stunning photos, and, of course, added warmth! You can also explore wraps or shawls for your bridesmaids. Plaid wraps bring color and warmth to your event. Gray or ivory faux fur is also a great color. You can also consider matching coats for your bridesmaids instead and forego matching dresses.
Footwear Considerations for Snowy or Icy Conditions
With many paths and trails icy, muddy, or snow-covered in the winter, don’t be afraid to explore more unconventional footwear to pair with your dress. Heeled or flat boots, sparkly tennis shoes, or faux fur-lined flats are all great options. You can find shoes in ivory, silver, or white, or bring color to your attire with more vibrant jewel colors or tartan.
Planning and Logistics
Remember to keep the amount of daylight in mind as you plan your special day! Sunlight makes for safer travel and better conditions, so consider beginning your festivities earlier in the evening to accommodate cautious travelers. You can still easily dance until dark!
As your wedding date moves closer, remember to watch the weather so you can plan travel time accordingly. If your wedding venue is in the mountains or hard to access in inclement weather, ensure overnight options are available for you and your guests should you face unexpected weather challenges.
White Elegance’s LDS Modest Wedding Dresses
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! We wish you all the best in planning your perfect day. We care about our clients at White Elegance and offer the most affordable wedding dresses for your special day. Our LDS modest wedding dresses have sleeves and designs perfect for winter weddings. Shop White Elegance modest wedding dresses today.
