The magical world of winter weddings

There are all sorts of things to get excited about when it comes to winter weddings – the chillier months open up a new realm of possibilities for your special day that simply wouldn’t seem right in spring or summer. Think roaring log fires, mulled wine, festive decorations and candlelit receptions. What’s more, many of the associated price tags are usually lower than they are during the prime British summertime wedding season.

Expert wedding planner Helen Davies, who works in partnership with us at Village Farm Events, is passionate about winter nuptials. Here she gives her view on why this can make for an especially magical time of year to tie the knot.

’Tis the season to be merry

Winter used to be the off-season for getting married but the quieter November to February period is growing in popularity with couples who spot the romantic opportunities it can offer.

The chance of snow is one attraction as a sprinkling of the white stuff can result in stunning photographs and inject a sense of fun to proceedings for guests of all ages.

Let’s be honest though, while crisp air, searing sunshine and cobalt blue skies would create a wonderful backdrop, it’s possible you might actually end up with dull grey clouds and a bitter blast of wind and rain. But it’s worth remembering that this could happen at any time of year in the UK with our unpredictable weather and the key is to be prepared!

Helen said: “Weather is always at the forefront of our concerns when it comes to wedding planning and in some ways it’s easier to prepare for it in winter, when you’re already expecting colder air temperatures and anything else the elements might throw at you.

“It’s likely you’ll be spending most of the celebration indoors but consider transport needs if there’s any walking involved between locations. A nice touch would be to provide blankets or pashminas should guests wish to warm up, and also umbrellas if rain is on the cards.”

In fact, warmth should be the top priority according to Helen: “It’s so important to ensure everyone feels toasty. Most guests will probably arrive wearing coats so you’ll need a cloakroom nearby for them to hang them up. Venues with real fires will be a huge bonus for a winter wedding, although a marquee is still an option as modern heating systems are brilliant and you can still create a really cosy atmosphere.”

What to wear?

Now this is where the happy couple and all their guests can really go to town. No need to worry about unsightly summer sweats, the cooler temperatures allow you to layer up with warmer fabrics like cashmere and tweed, tactile textures such as velvet and faux fur, and shimmering accents courtesy of sequins and glitter.

Brides and bridesmaids have a gloriously chic array of winter gowns and accessories to choose from, including elegant long sleeves, snug shrugs and shawls, Russian-style snow queen hats and even leather bomber jackets. What’s more, they can get away with wearing chunky tights for additional warmth as well as sneaking a pair of wellies under their dresses for outdoor photographs.

“The options for a winter wedding wardrobe are endless, I think in many ways it’s more versatile than a spring or summer event,” said Helen. “Ultimately what you wear is all down to personal preference but there are styles and fabrics you can choose for winter that bring a kind of glamour you just won’t find in summer outfits.”

However, Helen also suggests taking good care of yourself through the colder months: “Brides might find they need to invest a bit more time and effort in their beauty preparations and try to ward off bugs with a healthy regime,” she said. “Nobody wants to have a streaming cold or chapped lips on their big day.”

Deck the halls!

Use of colour and lighting are two more aspects of the day that have a major impact at winter events. Helen said: “Sumptuous, rich and deep shades look amazing, or you could opt for more glacial wintry tones for your décor and table dressings.

“Of course the daylight fades much earlier at this time of year and this gives you the chance to create a gorgeous atmosphere using lighting, including amazing lighting effects as well as more traditional candlelight, which isn’t really an option in summer.”

This is also something to bear in mind when organising the day’s schedule, as time will need to be allowed for photography while there’s still plenty of light.

Helen advises a note of caution when choosing a venue for a wedding set to take place during the festive period, as most will be festooned with their own Christmas decorations – which may or may not be to your taste. A Christmassy environment might therefore lend your celebration some additional positive vibes of seasonal wellbeing and goodwill, or it might be that the festive season’s sparkle and shimmer is a bit too cheesy for your sophisticated affair.

Hot and hearty fare

Catering is another aspect of the day where you can take advantage of the season. Mulled wine and hot chocolate laced with rum would just seem wrong in summertime but imagine how grateful guests will be to be greeted with a steaming mug as they arrive at your reception.

Helen added: “In winter it’s totally appropriate to offer comfort food that people really love tucking into. You could indulge in hot canapes, soups, hearty dishes and warm desserts. Imagine having a sirloin, carved at the table, with Yorkshire puddings and a rich beef gravy.

“Remember your menu needs to please your guests, rather than your bridal party. It’s best to stick with simple dishes that are presented well.”

Planning ahead

If you’re looking for a winter 2018/19 wedding, now is the time to book. Just one hour with a professional wedding planner such as Helen will save time and money in the long run and also help remove the associated stresses and strains.

“You can enjoy a classically romantic wedding in winter, there are so many creative options,” said Helen. “I love helping all couples with their special day but there is something particularly exciting about planning a winter wedding.”

If you would like to speak to us about our wedding planning or marquee hire service, email info@villagefarmmarquees.co.uk or ring (01262) 468160.