When some of us think of winter, we think beautiful winter whites, sparking silvers and icy blues. The tone is pure and fresh and new – what a perfect metaphor for a wedding!
Those in the other camp think of themes that are rich with opulent fabrics and bold jewel colours – deep, warm and comforting, just as a marriage should be!
Both themes can work equally well for winter weddings. As Emma Newman of Emma Newman Weddings says, just because it is winter doesn’t mean your wedding can’t be elegant and fun!
There are, of course, certain things you do need to think of when planning a winter wedding.
Choices, choices, choices…
Nicky Malcolm of Décor-atif backs up Emma’s comments that a winter wedding is a time to get inventive. Take advantage of the season and use things like bare tree branches hung with crystal garlands, drops, feathers and fur, objects ‘old and interesting’ in tones of white and silver. Or use gorgeous fabrics and candles, open fires, braziers and old lanterns to create a warm, luxuriant setting. Or be theatrical or adventurous and try and mid-winter festival or masquerade celebration!
The beauty of winter is that it can be rich and warm and invites a bit of mid-winter madness – be quirky and fun and give your guests something to remember!
All warm and snugly
Never underestimate the cold, both in the rooms for your ceremony and reception, but also when choosing clothing and transport. The last thing you want is to look a lovely shade of blue (a la Marge Simpson!) and be so cold your warm, loving feelings just aren’t managing to heat you up!
Emma suggests that you politely ask your church or ceremony venue to put their heaters on early in the day to take the chill off the room. Extra heaters are also a good investment – we have some suggestions for alternative heat sources in this month’s issue. These heat sources can also provide excellent soft light for photographers (a great topic to discuss with your photographer!).
Cars should be well-heated (but not too humid – don’t want to ruin that lovely hairdo and makeup!). If you prefer the simplicity of the horse and carriage described in last month’s issue, be sure that the carriage is loaded up with pretty blankets to wrap you and your beloved in!
If you don’t intend to wear a long-sleeved gown or special wrap during the ceremony and reception, ensure that you carry some type of wrap for wearing whilst you are waiting for photographs. It is a great idea to check the wrap or cape or jacket doesn’t shed lint or stray cotton that will cling to your dress.
Also think of your bridesmaids – we are sure they will have the same warm, loving thoughts you do about your big day, but we are not sure their adrenaline will be running so high and keeping them glowing! They will also be likely to be waiting around a fair bit while you and your husband are having your photos taken.
Covering up
With New Zealand’s (OK, we mean Auckland’s) unpredictable rain, it is also a good idea to carry a brolly or three with you. With the fashionable umbrellas available, you are bound to find one that fits with your theme and looks great in those pics! Or check out the range of parasols on offer.
Keeping it clean
With rain and snow comes mud and slush. This of course needs to be remembered when walking anywhere, climbing in and out of vehicles, sitting, and posing for photos. Just take care that you don’t step any potholes filled with muddy water and ruin that beautiful gown and shoes!
Your shoe sales person and dress designer may be able to suggest simple solutions to any problems such as this (other than just keep inside!).
A certain light
With the sun setting a little earlier in winter, and without the benefit of daylight savings, keep in mind the timings for both the ceremony and reception. Ask your photographer when the light will be best and plan your times around this – whilst photos in the dark can look amazing, winter lighting can be something very special and you should aim to take advantage of this!
Warm and hearty
During winter, people’s thoughts tend towards rich, comforting fare and it is important that you serve food keeping in mind our bodies need a little more fuel in winter. The venison and red wine pie in Wanaka Catering’s article looks perfect!
Floral tributes
With flowers being more expensive due to availability in winter, try to use flowers in season and produced locally. We have provided a list of winter flowers in this issue to give you some ideas.
The cost benefit
One big benefit of getting married in winter is that there is not as much demand for venues and other wedding related vendors. In the winter months, suppliers may be willing to offer special rates or to negotiate on price – not always, but it doesn’t hurt to ask! A winter wedding can be a visually stunning event and will often be remembered because you have chosen the so-called off-season. As with any wedding, careful planning and being aware of the issues can make your wedding something truly special!
For other great winter wedding ideas and photos, check out the latest issue of Engaged magazine - free to read at www.engaged.co.nz