Winter weddings can be breathtaking; picture the beautiful snow as a blanket of white, glistening icicles decorating everything around you and your loved one by your side. It sounds like an enchanting event.
However, no matter how perfect it looks on paper, planning for a winter wedding takes time and effort. From finding the right venue to ensuring your guests stay warm and comfortable, there’s plenty to consider before taking the plunge. To help couples make the most of their special day and avoid costly mistakes, this guide will outline some of the most significant errors often seen when preparing for a winter wedding.
Failing to Account for the Higher Costs During Winter
Winter can be an expensive time of year for weddings, especially if you’re getting married in a popular destination. Venue fees, catering, and even transportation costs tend to skyrocket during the colder months, so planning and budgeting are essential.
You should also be aware of added costs that may come up unexpectedly. For instance, many venues require you to hire outdoor heaters to keep your guests warm on a cold winter night, or you may need to invest in winter-proof decorations like artificial snow or frosted glass, so factor this into your budget.
Not Paying Attention to Details
When planning a winter wedding, paying attention to the details that will make all the difference on your special day is essential. From selecting the correct type of lighting for outdoor photos to making sure all decorations and flowers are safe and secure in the colder temperatures, there’s a lot that can be overlooked if you don’t take the time to plan.
Research different lighting options and consider renting items like fire pits or patio heaters to keep your guests warm and cozy. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, be sure to provide blankets or pashminas for everyone to wear during the ceremony. The best way to ensure your winter wedding is perfect in every way is to take the time and carefully plan out all of the details.
Not Considering Your Guests When Booking a Venue
The wedding venue is perhaps one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. However, it’s not just about finding a spot that looks beautiful; you should also consider how your guests will be able to get there, particularly during winter.
For example, if you’re having an outdoor ceremony in the snow and many of your guests will be coming in from out of town, you’ll need to ensure the venue is accessible. That means finding a place with plenty of nearby parking and public transportation options. It would be best to consider how long your guests will take to arrive; no one wants to arrive late or endure an uncomfortable cold winter journey to attend your wedding.
Not Selecting the Right Clothing for the Occasion
Winter weddings tend to be more formal than most, so you must consider what everyone will wear. While your wedding dress should always be at the forefront of your mind, it’s essential to consider what your guests and bridal party will wear too.
For instance, for an outdoor ceremony, ensure everyone has appropriate winter attire, like hats, gloves, and heavy coats. If you’re having a more formal indoor affair, pick out an appropriate dress code for your guests. Finding suitable clothing for the groom and his groomsmen can be tricky. The suitable menswear for winter wedding should be warm but stylish; with traditional cuts with modern touches like velvet or patterned fabrics. You can also try layering different pieces for a more tailored look.
Not Planning for Inclement Weather
You never know what the weather will do, so planning for any eventuality is important. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony in the winter, have a backup plan for inclement weather.
You can rent tents or canopies to provide shelter from the snow and wind or look into indoor venues with a wintery feel. If you’re having a destination wedding, discuss any potential weather-related issues with your venue beforehand so there are no surprises on your big day.
It’s also important to consider your guests and their comfort levels. You can provide blankets
and pashminas to keep them warm outside or provide indoor space where they can take breaks if it gets too chilly. Drinks and refreshments can also help to keep everyone warm and in good spirits.
Lastly, consider your equipment; if you decide to use a DJ for your wedding, ensure they have the necessary equipment to withstand any winter weather. Rain and snow can ruin unprotected electronics, so ask about their setup before signing any contracts. Remember to also plan for snow-related issues, such as shoveling pathways, salting steps, and sidewalks, or providing snow tires for vehicles needing them.
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so it’s essential to prepare for any potential obstacles that may come your way. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can ensure your winter wedding is unforgettable. You and your guests will enjoy special memories for years to come.