Wed in the Wintertime
Should it ever be done? Totally can do it - and restrictions definitely apply.
Some of the most beautiful wedding pictures ever taken, have been taken in the winter. And if that is what you personally want for the memories of your special day… you’ll need to be getting married in the winter. So, what’s the battle-plan?
There are a few things that are the most germane to consider, and I think they go without saying. Do not permit a situation to be probable (or even possible) where snow will be underfoot of your guests, or the open sky is above them, unless they are completely prepared for that environment and that is your theme. If it’s warm enough, snow turns to slush. If it’s cold, smooshed snow then turns to ice. It can spell disaster for both your wedding party, your guests, caterers, DJ, you name it.
So here’s the game plan I think is the safest bet.
1.) Either have a tent with a heater and generator ready to go ahead of time in a thawed, dry area where guests will be sitting, dancing, eating and socializing - or have a venue rented which will serve that purpose. Shelter is a requirement for a wedding in winter. You can argue this point, but your vision probably deviates from tradition if you do, and you very-likely well know it.
2.) Get married early in the day. Light disappears in Montana and Wyoming in the winter FAST. You don’t really have a-lot of choice in this matter if you want your pictures outside in any sort of natural light.
3.) Serve warm, homestyle food. Hearty soup, meats, and warm breads are the comfort foods your winter wedding guests will love you for serving.
4.) Make sure the bartender has some of the traditional winter cocktails as the features. Hot Toddies, Alpines, Mulled Wine, Mudslides, Jack Frost, Wassails and the like are all hits.
5.) Buy a grip of blankets on Amazon for your guests. They are cheap in bulk, and they make really awesome guest gifts.
6.) Make sure the design team is on theme. Winter wears many faces, and designers aren’t always on point with winter design. So, make sure your vision is clear and specific, and discuss the look and feel you want so there is no miscommunication on decor or setup.
7.) Communicate the conditions clearly, and repeatedly to your guests. Leave nothing to chance. You should blast an email with the weather and conditions update right up to within 24 hours of the wedding.
Winter weddings can be absolutely magical. With a little prep work to make sure everyone is warm, safe and comfy your wedding will be a huge hit.
