The Best Tips For The Perfect Winter Wedding
We got married in November, it was on the cusp of winter and quite frankly, we loved it. It wasn’t quite a December wedding, it was short by a week but it was still the perfect winter wedding. Our wedding was more travel themed than a winter wedding but I know people love lush winter weddings so I thought I’d put this post together to help everyone out!
Why Get Married In The Winter?
If you’re thinking about getting married in the winter UK edition then you might already have a strong reason to want to do so, which is great! We wanted to get married in the winter because it’s our favourite time of year and it was also a lot cheaper!
If you’re considering a winter wedding it’s always important to plan ahead. The weather is always changing and that means you’ll have to plan for both good and bad weather. It could snow, it could rain, it could be sunny. At the end of the day this is the UK, plan for anything!
There are many reasons why you might choose to get married in the winter in the UK. Here are a few:
- It’s less expensive. Winter weddings are typically less expensive than summer weddings, as there is less demand for venues and vendors during the off-season. We also had our wedding on a weekday which was even cheaper!
- There are fewer crowds. You’ll have more privacy and less competition for vendors and venues if you get married in the winter. Although depending on what venue you want, if it’s popular you might still have a long wait.
- It’s more unique. Winter weddings are less common than summer weddings, so yours will be more unique and memorable. Especially if it starts pouring it down, or even better, snow!
Winter Themed Wedding Tips
So if you’re looking to create your own winter themed wedding, here’s a few tips I have that you should probably stick to. Some of them are common sense, others most people wouldn’t have even thought of, such as the right flowers although we didn’t have real flowers so that didn’t phase us!
If you have a wedding planner then they should know all about the things to remember for a winter wedding, if they don’t you should probably find another wedding planner. If you don’t want a wedding planner, get a notebook now or save this page to come back and reference at any point!
- Consider the time of year when choosing your flowers. Some flowers, such as roses and lilies, are in season during the winter, while others, such as tulips and daffodils, are not.
- Choose a winter-themed cake. There are many different types of winter-themed cakes available, from traditional fruitcakes to modern chocolate cakes.
- Incorporate winter elements into your wedding ceremony. You could have your officiant read a poem or passage about winter, or you could include winter symbols in your vows.
- Plan a winter-themed reception. You could have your reception in a winter wonderland setting, or you could serve winter-themed foods and drinks.
- Don’t forget the entertainment. You could hire a winter-themed band or DJ, or you could plan some winter-themed activities for your guests.
The Best Winter Venue Ideas
Picking the best venue can quite literally be a headache. We visited at least 20 venues, spoke to even more at wedding fares and even had to cancel one that we loved as they turned out to be terrible. Unlike summertime when any wedding venue will do, if you want a winter wedding, you need to pick the best type of venue for a winter wedding.
We went with a huge, renovated mill in the countryside for our wedding and we loved it. It did rain a little towards the end of the night but there was loads of room inside for people to take shelter and party the night away. If you’re looking for a venue, make sure it has cover and that they have heating!
Here are a few of the best types of venues for a winter wedding in the UK:
- Historic buildings such as castles, manor houses, and stately homes can provide a truly magical backdrop for a winter wedding.
- Countryside venues such as farms, barns, and glamping sites can offer a rustic and romantic setting for a winter wedding. I think these are great for winter weddings, the view can be breathtaking.
- City venues such as museums, art galleries, and theatres can provide a unique and stylish setting for a winter wedding. They even have a library you can hire in Manchester, how cool!
- Indoor venues such as hotels, restaurants, and banquet halls can provide a warm and inviting setting for a winter wedding, regardless of the weather outside. You’ll have shelter from the elements but you might have to skip an amazing view.
No matter what type of venue you choose, make sure it is the right fit for you and your partner. Don’t let anyone else influence you and only you know what makes your perfect winter wedding.
The Best Winter Wedding Decor
This is a hard one, it all depends on what venue you’re looking to hire because there’s no point having a cow dressed up as Elsa if you’ve decided to get married in a town hall. There are, however, winter wedding decorations that can be used pretty much anywhere which are below.
Here are 12 generic winter wedding decorations:
- White and silver candles are a classic winter wedding decoration. They can be placed on tables, mantels, and other surfaces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Snow-covered trees can be used to create a winter wonderland at your wedding. You can use real trees or artificial trees, and decorate them with lights, ornaments, and garlands.
- Ice sculptures are a stunning and unique way to decorate for a winter wedding. They can be used to create centrepieces, table numbers, and other decorations.
- Flocked or fur-trimmed items can add a touch of winter whimsy to your wedding décor. You can use them to decorate chairs, tables, and other surfaces.
- Winter flowers such as poinsettias, lilies, and orchids can add a touch of colour to your winter wedding décor.
- Winter-themed food and drinks can be served at your wedding to keep your guests warm and cosy. You can serve things like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and roasted meats.
- Winter activities such as snowshoeing, sledging, and ice skating can be planned for your guests to enjoy during your wedding reception.
- A winter-themed wedding cake is a must-have for any winter wedding. You can choose from a variety of designs, such as a snow-covered cake or a cake decorated with winter flowers.
- A winter-themed wedding favour is a great way to thank your guests for coming to your wedding. You can choose from a variety of flavours, such as hot chocolate bombs, snow globes, or ornaments.
- A winter-themed wedding hashtag is a great way for your guests to share photos and memories of your wedding on social media.
These are just a few ideas for winter wedding decorations. With a little creativity, you can create a winter wonderland at your wedding that your guests will never forget. If you want something a little more themed or tailored to a specific venue take a look at our 48 winter wedding decor ideas post and see if you can find something amazing and totally unique for your wedding day!
The Best Winter Wedding Favours
I love wedding favours, you can go as small or as big as you want! We had something a little less traditional, as our wedding was more travel themed we had little suitcases on the table that held the wedding favours that our guests got and everyone thought they were super cute!
If you’re looking to have a winter themed wedding, you won’t be wanting little suitcases unless you’re off to Finland for your honeymoon! Take a look at some of the more generic winter wedding favour ideas below. If you’re looking for something a little more unique or themed take a look at our 48 winter wedding favour ideas post and see if you can find something a little more tailored to your winter wedding.
- Hot chocolate bombs are a delicious and festive way to keep your guests warm on a wintery day.
- Snow globes are a classic winter favourite that is sure to bring back memories of your wedding day.
- Ornaments are a thoughtful and personal way to thank your guests for coming to your wedding.
- Jars of homemade jam or honey are a delicious and unique way to show your guests your appreciation.
- Gift certificates to local businesses are a practical and appreciated way to say thank you.
- Donations to a charity in your guests’ names are a thoughtful and meaningful way to give back.
- Plants are a beautiful and lasting way to remember your wedding day.
- Gift baskets filled with winter treats are a delicious and festive way to show your guests you care.
- Personalized candles are a beautiful and unique way to thank your guests for coming to your wedding.
- Keepsake boxes are a thoughtful way for your guests to store memories of your wedding day.
- Handmade gifts are a personal and unique way to show your guests you appreciate them.
I know some people don’t like doing wedding favours because you’ve already paid out so much for the entire day but I think they’re a lot of fun and something else to make your winter wedding wonderful!
Other Wedding Blog Posts
If you’re here looking for wedding information you might want to check out the other wedding articles on the website. We have loads of wedding posts that will help you get the best wedding possible. They’ll save you time and energy and our helpful question posts will ensure you get the best suppliers for your fabulous winter wedding!
74 Winter Wedding Favour Ideas
If you’re looking to have the best winter wedding possible, you’ll want to be giving our some amazing winter wedding favours to your guests. Take a look at this list of unique winter wedding favour ideas and maybe find something that will fit your wedding.
52 Winter Wedding Decor Ideas
A winter wedding is nothing without winter wedding decorations! Make sure you have the best winter wedding decor ideas and that you’re not just sticking to generic wedding decorations. You want the very best for your wedding to make sure you’re having the best and hopefully only wedding possible!
30 Questions to Ask Wedding Entertainment
If you’re looking to make an amazing winter wedding, you’re going to want amazing wedding entertainment! Make sure you get the best wedding entertainment by asking the right questions!
The Best Places In The UK For A Winter Wedding
When it comes to getting married you can either stay close to home or you can travel a bit to find the perfect venue for your winter wedding. It totally depends on what kind of venue you had your heart set on and maybe you’ll end up travelling 50-100 miles down the road for the perfect place!
If you’re looking at the UK as a whole for your winter wedding, below are some of the best areas in the UK for a winter wedding, hopefully, you’ll find somewhere you love!
- Scotland is known for its stunning scenery, from the snow-capped mountains of the Highlands to the rugged coastline of the Outer Hebrides.
- Yorkshire is another beautiful county with a rich history and culture. There are many historic castles and stately homes in Yorkshire that would make the perfect backdrop for a winter wedding.
- The Cotswolds are a beautiful area of rolling hills and picturesque villages. The Cotswolds are a popular destination for weddings all year round, but they are especially magical in the winter when the countryside is covered in snow.
- The Lake District is a national park in the north of England that is known for its stunning scenery, including lakes, mountains, and forests. The Lake District is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
- London is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a variety of wedding venues, from historic churches to modern hotels. London is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs, so you can easily find the perfect place to celebrate your wedding night.
- Dorset. Dorset has some fantastic countryside locations that are perfect for the best winter wedding and the views can be breathtaking and perfect for pictures!
Pros and Cons To A Winter Wedding
There are loads of positives to having a winter wedding, but there are also some cons that need to be taken into account. I mean not everyone wants to have a December wedding which is fair, I know a lot of people love summer weddings and even beach weddings which I’m sure are a lot of fun.
Pros:
- Less expensive. Winter weddings are typically less expensive than summer weddings, as there is less demand for venues and vendors during the off-season. If you book on a weekday, you’ll get it even cheaper.
- Fewer crowds. You’ll have more privacy and less competition for vendors and venues if you get married in the winter.
- It’s more romantic. The winter months can be a magical time to get married, with snow-covered landscapes and twinkling lights.
- It’s more unique. Winter weddings are less common than summer weddings, so yours will be more unique and memorable.
Cons:
- The weather can be unpredictable. It’s important to have a backup plan in case of bad weather, such as a tent or indoor venue. Plan for anything, winter gloves, umbrellas etc. Just make sure you have a backup plan for it all!
- Some guests may not be able to attend. Older or frailer guests may not be able to travel in the winter, and some guests may have other commitments, such as school or work.
- You may have to book early. Popular venues and vendors book up quickly in the winter, so it’s important to book early.
Winter Weddings
Will you be having a winter wedding or just a wedding in December? Either way, it’s best to have all the right information to ensure you have the best wedding possible. I’d love to know if you found this post helpful or if perhaps I forgot something and you’d like me to add it in. Let me know in the comments!
You can also share this incredibly helpful winter wedding article with your friends and family, if they’re getting married in the winter, I suggest doing that. Or add this post to your Pinterest with the pictures below so you can find it whenever you need it, that sounds like a smart idea. I hope you or someone you love has the best wedding this winter!
Winter Weddings Information Article Pinterest Picture
