For many people, the vision of an English wedding contains imagery of spring flowers and bunting, or bright marquees and supping champagne in the hazy summer sunshine, but I think there is a lot to be said for the fantastic warm glow and glamour of a winter wedding, and we love them. I have occasionally found myself fantasising over Pinterest about a sparking and silvery winter wonderland wedding with twinkly lights and guests in ball gowns…
Anyway, enough of my theatrical mind, if you have no preference on time of year, it’s definitely worth considering a winter wedding. For starters, many venues and suppliers consider the winter months as low season so you can make some great savings compared to getting married in the summer. Also, let’s be realistic, here in the UK you just can’t predict the weather, even in the height of summer, so it makes sense whenever you choose your date to pick a venue that looks great on the inside as well as outside. For a winter wedding, this is even more important, as the last thing you want to have is a less desirable wet weather option. We’ve shot at venues with fantastic outdoor weather options, but if it rains you find yourself saying ‘I do’ in a conference room – probably not what you had in mind. When choosing, look for a venue that you would be happy spending the whole day indoors. Ask the venue if they have any albums of winter wedding photography so you can see where group photos ended up being taken for example.
Winter light
When it comes to winter wedding photography, we also keep an eye on the weather and on the light. Whereas in the summer, marrying at three or four in the afternoon still works well for your reception drinks and group shots, anything later than two from October to February will have you fighting against the setting sun. Low winter light looks gorgeous though, so choose a photographer who will thrive in the conditions and not just flash away because it’s getting dark.
When we are shooting a winter wedding, we have a careful consideration for our couple and all their guests, so if it is a particularly cold or damp day, we will advise against dragging them outside for your group photos, and endeavour to chose an indoor position if the couple are happy, bar the big group shot if possible. Saying that, we have persuaded a venue to let us do an indoor group confetti shot before!
Rain doesn’t stop play
Even if it is chilly or raining, we still like to take the bride and groom outside if they are willing, as raindrops look very pretty, especially in low light. If you are worried about getting cold in your wedding dress it’s also a fantastic excuse to treat yourself to a luxurious faux fur stole or shrug, although many of our winter brides find adrenaline kicks in and they don’t get cold at all.
A winter wedding also allows you to create an atmosphere with your theme, maybe it’s ice whites and berries, or go all out and get Christmassy with your decor. On a chilly December day consider swapping canapés and champagne for mince pies and mulled wine as a warming treat after your ceremony. Whatever you choose, your guests will surely be in party mood especially if it is close to Christmas, as your party can really kick off their party season!
Recap
- Choose a venue that will look great if you stay indoors all day
- Book a photographer with winter wedding experience
- Have some sort of shrug or jacket for over your dress in case you get cold
- Think about bringing seasonal touches into your decor and menu
