Gorge Wedding
It takes a special couple to plan and execute an incredible winter wedding. Unpredictable weather, dwindling daylight, and dicey road conditions are just a few of the obstacles a winter wedding can face. However, when you pull off a magical winter wedding, it will feel extra satisfying and special. Here are some winter wedding trends to consider if you’re planning your nuptials between December and March.
Cooler temperatures don't mean you can’t wear the strapless dress you have your heart set on. Embrace the winter climate and the romantic mood it evokes, by adding a faux fur or cashmere shawl. Not only will it provide warmth, but it will add a level of classic sophistication, typical of a bygone era. If you find yourself more of a trend-setter, accessorize your look with a princess cape or custom wedding jacket—two looks commonly featured on this year’s runway.
If accessorizing doesn’t speak to you, skip the shawl or cape altogether and dawn an ethereal gown, characteristic of the winter season. Pippa Middleton made headlines in a custom, high-neck gown by Giles Deacon. Monique Lhuillier unveiled embellished illusion sleeves in her recent collection and fashion-forward lace panels can be found everywhere—teasing a bit of sex-appeal, in an otherwise seasonably-appropriate look. Whether glamour is your middle name or you yearn for a timeless look, a winter wedding doesn’t limit your options, it broadens them. From gloriously poofy with a touch of sparkle, to delicately refined and fitted, the sky's the limit for winter bridal fashion.
Winter is the time for comfort food, so your winter wedding has to have some on the menu. Comfort food is pretty broad so have fun with it! Serve up plated or buffet style as long as it’s hot and rich, you can’t go wrong and your guests will love it. Offer some winter-inspired cocktails to wash down that heavy meal. Don’t worry your drinks can be just as bold as your food with flavors like cardamom and Cointreau or pear and cranberry. Dress them up with a fresh sprig of rosemary for that extra holiday feel and a touch fragrance.
Cakes are keeping it simple and elegant with tiers, white or dark berry frosting and natural embellishments. Adorn tiers with juniper, winterberry, and holly to create a beautiful winterscape. Not glam enough for you? Add a swipe or whole tier of edible sparkles. Folding softer, more subtle sparkles into the icing will look like sparkling snow, how dreamy?
You know what you’re wearing and what you’re going to eat and drink. How are you going to decorate?
Start with the stationary. This will set the tone for your entire winter wedding and give guests a sense of wonder and excitement before they even arrive. If you’re leaning more towards a holiday glam theme use dark greens and reds, highlighted with gold or silver accents. If you’re leaning towards a cool wintery feel use cool tones of blues, silvers, periwinkle. Utilize the same color pallet throughout the wedding with place settings and signage. Sticking with your color palette throughout will give guests a clear idea of the direction you’re going and creates a nice consistent look.
It’s winter, floral isn't a big part of the winter wedding right? Wrong! It’s definitely a vital part, it’s just a different floral look. It’s time to turn your reception into an indoor winter wonderland or the holiday glam party of your dreams. Both looks incorporate garland. Garland is the quintessential floral piece for a winter wedding. Long or short pine garland can be spruced up with all kinds of additions, make or order customized garland with holly and pinecones for pops of color and warmth or stick will all green by adding plants like salal and eucalyptus. These same elements can be incorporated into your bouquets and boutineers. Yes, flowers too! The black dahlia is a symbol of elegance and lasting commitment between two people. Their unique dark color and special meaning make the black dahlia an ideal floral addition to your winter wedding.
These fragrant pieces of decor will undeniably bring your reception to life. Highlight garland with lights or candles. Use LED lights for a cool wintery look to go with your blue tones stationary and signage or traditional lights to highlight your holiday glam theme. Mistletoe may seem cliché however, it will add a playful romance to your reception that everyone can enjoy and it looks cute too. They’ll make great photo opportunities for you and your guests to look back on.
What a triumph! You’ve made it to the end of your winter wedding through cool weather, the holidays and a belly full of rich comfort food. Now run off to that warm tropical honeymoon you’ve been waiting for and enjoy your alone time!