Planning Winter Weddings

Something about the cosiness, the possible pitter patter of rain and fall of snow accentuates the romance that winter can bring to your wedding day. Not to mention New Zealand being host to some of the most beautiful winter landscapes and scenery, it would be criminal not use to this to your advantage…

winter wedding planning - Diamonds On Richmond.png

Don’t let it rain on your parade

As us Kiwi’s are well aware, our weather can be rather unpredictable. Throughout the country we are subject to snowfall, rain, wind and fog. If you’re thinking of having your wedding in the North Island, snow shouldn’t be of too much concern, however, rain and wind is definitely something to consider when choosing your venue. 

If you’ve always envisioned a cosy and comfortable wedding, there are tonnes of wedding venues offering such a feel. In fact, there’s no better time to have a lavish indoor wedding than in winter. The plus side is that guests will feel comfortable and so will you. The weather can do its thing and you’ll be tucked away indoors in your magical estate or mansion wedding… imagine. 

In the South Island, the conditions can differ. In this instance, snow is something that can be either celebrated or feared. If you’re wanting to entertain an outside wedding it is wise to purchase wedding insurance in case you need to postpone your wedding due to harsh weather conditions. It is important to talk to your vendors about this possibility as well.

Whilst the risks of weather are out of your control, there are other aspects of your wedding planning where you can take over the reigns…

The moolah

Wedding venues become flooded with bookings in the summer, which means you may be waiting for your dream venue for a while. But, in the winter you are more likely to secure a venue without having to plan years in advance and without the peak prices may we add. 

Extreme makeover, wedding edition

Winter provides a beautiful canvas where any colour is accentuated and celebrated. To add that extra sense of warmth to your venue, vibrant hues emphasise the cosiness of your venue. Think bold florals and foliage to incorporate into your decor scheme. Working with the season’s flora and fauna such as pine cones and twig weaves is another way to dress up your venue. 

In contrast, soft pastels can work just as beautifully, but provide a more ethereal, pure and delicate feel that works parallel with winter’s bringing. 

Look good, feel good

Winter allows you to wear more of what you love. Layering is essential, and beautiful fabrics that are deemed too heavy for the summer such as heavy lace and silk satins are awaiting your grasp.

Comfort and warmth are key, and even better, can be done in style. Fur coats, full length gloves, shawls and dresses with sleeves are just some of the options. Be as creative as you like, winter gives you this option!

Comfort cuisine 

Let’s be honest, one of the best parts of a wedding is the food. Winter is all about comfort food, so what better way than to treat your guests (and yourselves) to some soul-warming delicacies. Pumpkin soup, warm bread rolls and butter, roasted vegetables, oozing- chocolate lava cakes and possibly even a hot chocolate and toppings bar… the choice is yours! 

It’s all about you!

Winter has nowhere near as many public holidays as summer, which means your nearest and dearest have your undivided attention. No one will be going away, meaning you’re practically guaranteed RSVPs. This is especially because most other couples choose to get hitched in the warmer months, making it a busier season all round. Hosting your wedding in the winter will therefore help you avoid clashing dates with other weddings!

Your turn…

Let us know if you have had a winter wedding - we’d love to hear some of your own personal tips and stories!

Photo credit: @hollywallacephotosfilms - Photographer of adventurous romance, mountain-top elopements and intimate weddings. Located in Queenstown, NZ.

Eilish Emery.

 

ABOUT THE WRITER:

Hi! I'm Eilish - if you can pronounce my name correctly on the first go you're in the good books! You'll find me soaking up the sun with a Pinot Gris in hand, or cosied up with a cup of tea and a good read. I'm a romantic at heart, so writing about all things engagement/wedding fulfils my inner cupid!

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