Lyla Dejesus
Planning an outdoor wedding in winter can be challenging, but it's a unique and special opportunity for couples to embrace the magic and charm of the season. With the right preparations, it is possible to create an unforgettable dream wedding. This includes choosing a suitable venue, considering the comfort of guests, and preparing for unpredictable winter weather. Winter weddings are generally less popular, which can result in lower costs and more availability for couples. From snowy backdrops to intimate candlelit receptions, an outdoor winter wedding can be a romantic and enchanting experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Cold, unpredictable |
| Precipitation | Snow, ice, Rain |
| Venues | Tents, outdoor ceremony spaces, indoor reception halls, private estates, gardens, barns |
| Guest comfort | Blankets, shawls, cloaks, hand warmers, mugs, slippers, gloves, scarves, heaters, hot drinks and snacks, soft music, shorter ceremony |
| Lighting | Fairy lights, candles |
| Favours | Blankets, mugs, slippers, hand warmers, gloves, scarves, shawls, headlamps, flashlights |
| Catering | Breakfast bars, brunch, warm dishes |
| Photography | Snow-covered trees, snowflakes, ice crystals |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of outdoor winter weddings
Outdoor winter weddings can be magical, but they come with their own set of challenges. Here are some pros and cons to consider when planning your special day:
Pros:
One of the biggest advantages of an outdoor winter wedding is the potential for a unique and picturesque setting. The winter landscape can provide a stunning backdrop for your ceremony, with snow-covered grounds, icy blues, and shimmering silvers creating a magical atmosphere. The season also offers an opportunity for creative decor, allowing you to transform an ordinary venue into an extraordinary refuge from the cold with glamorous lighting and colour choices.
Winter weddings are generally considered "less desirable," which means venues, catering, and vendors may offer off-season rates, saving you money. You may also face less competition for your preferred venue and could benefit from more availability for your desired date.
Cons:
The biggest challenge of an outdoor winter wedding is, of course, the weather. You may have to deal with snowstorms, icy roads, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable precipitation, which can cause delays, cancellations, or disruptions to your plans. These conditions can also pose a safety risk to your guests, especially those with mobility issues.
Additionally, some guests may be uncomfortable with the idea of being outdoors in cold weather and may decline the invitation. It is important to consider their comfort and provide amenities like blankets, hand warmers, and warm drinks. You should also consider having a backup plan, such as a tent on standby, in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.
While an outdoor winter wedding can be a special and memorable experience, it requires careful planning and consideration to ensure the comfort and safety of everyone involved.
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How to keep guests warm
There are many ways to keep your guests warm at an outdoor winter wedding. Firstly, it is important to ensure your guests are dressed appropriately for the weather. You could also provide them with blankets, scarves, shawls, or hand and body warmers. These can be personalised and act as wedding favours.
To keep the venue warm, consider renting heat lamps and hot air blowers, or setting up bonfires or fire pits. Tents can also be used to provide coverage from the cold and wind, with some venues offering indoor reception halls to escape the cold.
It is also a good idea to serve warm food and drinks, such as soup, hot chocolate, mulled wine, or warm apple cider.
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Choosing a venue
- Location and Climate: Opt for a location with a picturesque winter landscape, such as a forest, national park, private estate, or garden. Consider the climate and avoid extremely cold, windy, or snowy areas to ensure your guests' comfort. If you're hoping for a snowy backdrop, research the likelihood of snow at your chosen location. A city venue with surrounding buildings, skylines, and architecture can also provide a stunning backdrop while offering some protection from winter winds.
- Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: Look for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor options. This allows you to separate activities and accommodate guests of all ages. An indoor reception hall can provide a comfortable space for guests to warm up, especially if they have been outside for an extended period.
- Logistics and Amenities: Ensure the venue can provide the necessary supplies and logistics for winter conditions, such as salting walkways, de-icing parking lots, and shovelling gathering areas. Confirm if they offer outdoor heaters, fire pits, or tents to protect guests from the elements. Inquire about coat and boot check services, as guests may appreciate having their footwear and outerwear stored during the event.
- Accessibility and Convenience: Choose a venue that is easily accessible for your guests, preferably located close to public transportation stations or with convenient driving options. This is especially important during winter, as travelling in harsh weather conditions can be challenging.
- Cost and Availability: Winter is typically considered an off-season for weddings, so you may be able to take advantage of off-season discounts and lower rates. There is also less competition for venues during this time, making it easier to book your desired location.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Prioritize venues that maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety. This is particularly important during the winter, as guests will be more susceptible to illnesses. Ensure the venue has adequate measures in place to create a safe and healthy environment for your special day.
Remember to be flexible and always have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes. By choosing a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor options and taking advantage of amenities like heaters and tents, you can create a magical and comfortable experience for you and your guests.
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Decorations and attire
Decorations
- Tents: Consider renting tents with sides, a back, and entrances to provide coverage from the elements and help insulate heat. Clear tents can offer protection while still allowing guests to enjoy the surroundings.
- Lighting: Fairy lights can add a romantic touch to walkways and gathering areas. Candles can also contribute to a warm and intimate atmosphere.
- Fire pits: Chat with your venue about the possibility of having a fire pit. It can be a great gathering spot for guests and add to the outdoor winter vibe.
- Blankets: Provide blankets or shawls in your wedding colours or a mix of colours for guests to use. These can double as practical and stylish wedding favours.
- Heaters: Decorate both inside and outside spaces with heaters to ensure your guests' comfort.
Attire
- Bride and Groom: While you may be focused on finding the perfect dress or tuxedo, don't forget to have additional layers on hand, such as wraps, cloaks, or thermal tights.
- Wedding Party: Be flexible with the dress code for your wedding party and guests, especially if they will be spending a significant amount of time outdoors. Encourage them to dress warmly and consider providing a coat and boot check service.
- Guests: Communicate transparently with your guests about the outdoor venue and potential weather conditions. This will allow them to plan and dress appropriately for their comfort.
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Food and drink
When it comes to food and drink, there are several things to consider when planning an outdoor winter wedding. Firstly, it is important to keep your guests warm, so offering hot drinks and snacks is a great way to make them feel welcome and comfortable. You could also provide a warm dish for your guests to enjoy, which will help them brave the cold temperatures.
To add to the cosy atmosphere, you may want to set up a fire pit, which can double up as a fun, late-night snack. S'mores are a perfect treat for guests to enjoy around the fire. If you're planning a daytime wedding, a brunch-themed menu is a great option, and will help the party get started while it's still light out.
If you're worried about the weather, it's a good idea to have a tent on standby, and clear tents are a great option as they allow guests to still enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements. You can also decorate the tent with heaters to keep the space warm and inviting.
Finally, it's a thoughtful touch to provide blankets for your guests, especially if they will be spending a lot of time outdoors. You can choose blankets that match your wedding colours, or mix and match with a selection of different colours.
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Frequently asked questions
Winter weddings are considered "less desirable", so venues often offer off-peak rates, saving couples money. There is also less competition for venues and dates, so it's easier to book.
The weather is unpredictable and there may be severe weather such as rain and snow. It can also be challenging to keep guests warm, and there may be a higher rate of guest turn-down.
Provide blankets, shawls, hand warmers, hot drinks and snacks, and heaters. Tents can also help to insulate heat and block wind.
