When we think of weddings we often automatically think of getting married in the summer, but according to the ONS, the end of the year is still a popular time to get married, apart from a gap during the Christmas period. There are also lots of advantages to getting married in the colder months, for example completely removing the stress of a weather-dependent ceremony or reception. And of course, many venues will have cheaper rates, making the winter months better value for money. If you’re planning your nuptials for this, or next winter, here are some key things you might want to consider:
Less decoration may be more
Designing your decor theme can be one of the most enjoyable elements of planning a wedding, but if you’re planning a winter wedding there may actually be less for you to do. For example, if you are getting married at a venue in the run-up to Christmas, it might be worth checking with them to see when their Christmas decorations go up. If twinkly lights are already in place you might have exactly what you need. A sparkler arch and some fireworks could be the finishing touch!
Home comforts for your guests
If your venue includes an outdoor area for your guests, don’t forget that they may need an extra layer or two. You could provide blankets in case anyone gets chilly, or have some fire pits available if your venue allows. One thing I always do for my winter wedding brides is to bring a polythene sheet, to save their dress from getting dirty when we take photos outdoors!
Save your daylight time
Check out how many daylight hours your chosen wedding day will have and make a note of when the sun sets. Ideally, you need to allow a good amount of time for photos after the ceremony, so consider how much daylight you’ll have and whether it will be enough. An earlier ceremony will give you more options for photos with natural light. Although the golden hour (around sunset) can produce some incredible shots!
Get creative with your choices
Lots of festive season traditions can provide fun alternatives to the usual wedding fare – so don’t forget to get creative with your choices. Mini mince pies can work well as a canapé and crackers can make a lovely alternative to wedding favours. You could even feature mini Christmas trees as your table decorations!
A perfect white wedding doesn’t need snow
Winter weddings can result in really beautiful photographs that you will treasure forever as a couple. You might have envisaged some dramatic shots against a snowy background, but in the UK, it’s highly unlikely. Even without snow, the winter landscape can provide a wonderfully contrasting backdrop to your warmth as a couple. When I meet with my clients to discuss their wedding photography, I work with them to identify just the right spots in and around their venue to ensure the photos of their special day are just right for them.
Planning a winter wedding for 2023?
I have some availability for Winter 2023, so get in touch with me to discuss your photography needs. I would love to photograph your special day, snow or no snow!
