Winter wonderland
Nazlee Sabahipour, director at Offley Place in Hertfordshire, picks out the top wedding trends for the season
Winter, with all its seasonal charm and a dash of romance, creates a magical backdrop for weddings. We’ve had the pleasure of hosting some incredibly charming and romantic weddings during the colder months at our venue. And each year, new trends arise, making winter weddings even more special.
Here, we’re excited to share some of our favourite trends that our couples have been loving…
Winter Florals
When it comes to winter wedding florals, there’s a misconception that you have to stick solely to the traditional palette of deep reds and evergreens. However, we’ve seen a delightful shift in recent years as couples explore the versatility of neutral flowers during this magical season. Crisp whites can evoke a pristine and elegant atmosphere, reminiscent of freshly fallen snow, while deeper neutrals like dusty mauve, muted greys, or soft blush tones can add a touch of warmth and sophistication. These neutral florals seamlessly integrate with winter’s muted colour palette, infusing a sense of understated elegance into every bouquet, centrepiece, and floral arrangement, proving that winter’s beauty can be found in both its simplicity and depth.
Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses
For a winter wedding, long sleeve wedding dresses are not just a fashion statement, they are a practical and stylish choice. The longer sleeves not only add an element of timeless elegance to the bride’s ensemble, but also provide an extra layer of warmth, keeping her comfortable in cooler temperatures. The allure of a long sleeve gown lies in its ability to strike a balance between classic charm and modern sophistication, making it a perfect fit for a winter wonderland wedding. Whether adorned with delicate lace, intricate beading, or sheer fabrics, these dresses capture the essence of the season, creating a cosy and enchanting bridal look that is both breathtaking and weather-appropriate. The biggest tip that we can give you is that comfort is key to enjoying yourself on your special day!
An ‘Evergreen’ Venue
When planning a winter wedding wedding, your choice of venue plays a pivotal part in creating the perfect, enchanting atmosphere. It’s not just about the big day; it’s about capturing the magic too. Choosing a venue that has a striking outdoor area all year round is ideal, evergreen trees and a lovely outdoor space is a photographer’s dream come true. Those evergreens, with their lush green branches, pop beautifully against the wintery backdrop, giving your photos that wow factor. But it’s not just about the looks – it’s about the feel too. Being outdoors in the crisp wintery weather adds a magical touch to your wedding, whether you’re saying ‘I do’ surrounded by a light dusting of snow or basking in the glow of a winter sunset. Don’t miss out on those outdoor photos; they’ll be the ones you treasure forever.
Winter Table Decor
When it comes to creating a captivating winter wedding tablescape, incorporating wintery table decor is a must, and nothing quite captures the season’s charm like natural elements and rich, inviting colours. Think pine cones, those little treasures of the forest, sprinkled among your table settings, bringing an earthy, rustic touch to your decor. Rich hues like deep reds, forest greens, and midnight blues add warmth and sophistication to your tables, evoking the cosiness of the season. Together, these elements create a tablescape that not only embodies the magic of winter, but also invites your guests to share in its enchantment. It’s a visual feast that complements the hearty winter feast you’ll be sharing, making your wedding celebration a truly memorable and immersive experience.
Rich Bridesmaid Dresses
When it comes to dressing your bridesmaids for your winter wedding, deep, rich colours and velvet dresses make a stunning choice. These bold and sumptuous hues, like navy blue, emerald green or burgundy, perfectly complement the winter season’s romantic and cosy ambiance. Velvet bridesmaid dresses add an extra layer of luxury and warmth to the bridal party ensemble, making your bridesmaids not only look, but also feel like they’re wrapped in winter’s embrace. The soft, lustrous fabric catches the light beautifully and adds a touch of opulence to the overall aesthetic. So, when you’re curating your winter wedding vision, consider these deep colours and velvety textures to create a bridal party that exudes elegance and embraces the spirit of the season.
Embrace Christmas Decor
When selecting your wedding venue, it’s a great idea to inquire about their Christmas decorations and schedule. Most venues adorn their spaces with twinkling lights, wreaths, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees during the holiday season. By coordinating your wedding date with these decorations, you can effortlessly incorporate the cosy charm of Christmas into your own wedding decor. This not only reduces the need for additional decor on your part, but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your special day even more memorable. It’s a delightful way to blend the joy of the holiday season with the love you and your partner share, making your winter wedding a true celebration of both your union and the festivities of the season.
Winter Wedding Cake
Incorporating winter elements into your wedding cake design is a delightful way to infuse seasonal charm into your winter wedding. Consider opting for a cake adorned with crisp white fondant that evokes the pristine beauty of freshly fallen snow. Alternatively, you can embrace a rustic, woodland aesthetic by incorporating edible antler motifs as cake toppers or decorations. These winter-inspired elements not only capture the magic of the season, but also add a unique and personalised touch to your dessert table. Whether it’s a touch of winter’s elegance or a nod to its natural beauty, your wedding cake can be a delicious work of art that beautifully complements your winter wonderland celebration.
Party The Night Away
Winter weddings bring with them a unique and exciting atmosphere – the perfect time to lean into the party spirit. It’s a season filled with festivities and celebrations, and everyone is naturally ready to let loose and have a good time. The anticipation of the holidays, the joy of being with loved ones, and the crisp, invigorating air create an electric energy that’s contagious. Whether you’re exchanging vows indoors in front of a cosy fireplace or braving the elements for a snowy outdoor ceremony, the winter season encourages a sense of togetherness and celebration. So, embrace the magic of this time of year and let your winter wedding be the ultimate party, filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Finish With A Bang
The grand finale of a winter wedding deserves nothing less than a touch of enchantment, and what better way to create that magic than with a sparkler exit or a spectacular fireworks display? These dazzling displays of light against the winter night sky provide the perfect ending to a day filled with love and celebration. The sparkler exit casts a warm and romantic glow as you and your partner make your way through a tunnel of well-wishing guests. Alternatively, fireworks add a burst of excitement, painting the sky with vibrant colours and creating a breathtaking spectacle. Both options offer a memorable and Instagram-worthy conclusion to your winter wedding, leaving your guests in awe and sending you off into the night in unforgettable style.
