Just because you are getting married in the winter doesn’t mean that you have to forego all the elements of an outdoor wedding. You can still have all the fairy-land elements in a winter wedding, but it will take some planning. Of course, being in Georgia does make having a winter wedding a bit easier than for winter brides who live further North. So, if you are anticipating winter nuptials, then here are some things to keep in mind.
Planning the Perfect Winter Wedding
While we would like to believe every wedding is accomplished without any snags or hiccups, we all know that reality would be nearly impossible! But these tips can help make the day go as smooth as possible.
1. If you want to do the service outside, be sure that the space is close (short walking distance) to the indoor reception area. (Not a problem at Gala!)
2. Visit your venue at night so you can see how it will look once the sun goes down.
3. Remember that fresh flower choices can be limited during the winter. Be flexible in your choices.
4. Find out what, if any, decorations will already be in place. Find out if they will stay for your wedding/reception or if you need to provide your own.
5. Work with the photographer to create a timeline. The sun sets earlier in winter, so you want to be sure to get those outside pics earlier.
6. Set up a Coat Check. Guests will appreciate not having to lug heavy coats around with them!
7. Choose a time of day when the temperature is typically the warmest. If you are concerned about it being too cool, consider having outdoor space heaters on hand.
8. Have baskets with blankets, gloves or even scarves available in case guests need them. These can also serve as wedding favors, or be props for the photo booth.
9. Don’t try to plan a winter wonderland themed wedding! Consider choosing a color scheme that contrasts with the weather outside.
10. Be sure to have warm drinks available – hot apple cider, hot toddy, hot chocolate (could always be spiked!), Russian Tea or many other warm options helps everyone warm up.
11. Think about yourself, too! Long gloves, capes, faux fur stoles, or even a chic cardigan are great ways to compliment your wedding dress – as well as your bridesmaids- and stay warm, too. You could even opt for a long sleeve dress! For the groom’s/groomsmen’s warmth, consider a velvet blazer, tweed or even tartan.
12. If you are wearing a long dress, boots are a great way to keep your feet warm. Also shoe-related, have a back- up pair of shoes in event that it has rained recently or on your wedding day and you don’t want to ruin your wedding shoes due to mud.
13. Choose to have the wedding and the reception at the same venue, to cut down on travel time. (Easy to do at Gala!) This makes it easier in the event of inclement weather!
14. Enjoy the ambiance of the cold weather by using an abundance of candles. Not only are they beautiful, but they provide a little extra warmth, too! Other great winter wedding light choices include fairy lights, tea lights, and lanterns.
15. Looking for wedding favors unique to a winter wedding? Consider things like mulled wine spices, candy canes, mini bottles of Baileys, fuzzy socks, hand warmers, pashminas, s’mores kits, or fun ornaments.
With some extra planning and attention to details, your cold season wedding can be the beautiful and magical day you have always wanted. So, if a winter wedding is what you desire, be sure to talk to one of our Gala Facility event planners. We would love to help you make your dream a reality!