The Pros and Cons of Having a Winter Wedding

Setting a date for your wedding is one of the most important parts of planning it. That will determine how long you have to prepare for it, and of course, the season when it will take place. Every season has its pros and cons, but the good news is that they all offer gorgeous backdrops and theme possibilities. As unique as the advantages are for a winter wedding, so are its disadvantages. If the upcoming winter season has you inspired, here’s a list of the pros and cons you’ll need to consider

Pro: You have an effortless romantic atmosphere

The great thing about having your wedding during the coldest months of the year is that it adds to the romantic atmosphere. If you love the holidays, a holiday theme practically adds itself to the picture. You can have candles and twinkling fairy lights strewn across the venue to supplement an already dreamy ambiance.

You can even have an outdoor winter wedding if you want to. Make sure that you have clear tents and portable heaters. An outdoor winter wedding would also be an excellent opportunity to use an outdoor fire pit by the stage area.

Having a winter wedding will also open a lot of doors for your design and theme. Winter looks fantastic on a lot of different design aesthetics. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic feel or a more modern look, you’ll be able to make it work.

The cold season can also be an advantage for your menu or buffet table. Holidays are known for pies, cookies, and other delicious confectionery. Adding alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot chocolate to your list of beverages is sure to please you and your guests.

Con: The weather might be a problem

The biggest drawback to having your wedding vows in winter is that the weather can be very unpredictable. And because weddings are best planned for several months, it will be too far away to tell if there will be a snowstorm or not.

Keep in mind that the weather doesn’t just affect your venue; it will also affect the attendance of your guests. If you want a big turn-up for your big day, this is something you have to think about. Inclement weather will be harder to travel in, so some guests might not want to travel or might not even be allowed to.

Pro: It’s going to look magical in photos

A winter backdrop is unlike any other. It sets a special mood and atmosphere that you’ll be able to take advantage of in photos. Your wedding photos would also look more romantic because you’d have to take on cuddly poses to stay warm — especially for the outdoor shots.

Con: You won’t have a lot of daylight time

Winter means shorter days and longer nights. So depending on the month and location of your ceremony, you won’t have as much time with natural lighting. Make sure to plan your program so that you’ll still have enough time for outdoor photos in daylight. If you plan on having outdoor photo-ops in the night, make sure to have heating where your guests are lining up.

Pro: It’s offseason, so you’ll be able to save a lot

Winter isn’t considered high season for weddings, so booking the best services and vendors won’t be as competitive. And because the wedding industry may be eager to make sales this season, you might even be able to score a discount or two.

Con: The holidays might have your guests unsure about attending

That is a con if you want a big turn-up for your wedding. Your guests might have other plans for their winter holidays — maybe they’ll want to go somewhere warm for a change. Send your save-the-dates early to book your guests.

Pro: You’ll have another great memory associated with the holiday season

As the song goes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. With hot chocolate, unwrapping presents, and being with your loved ones, we most look forward to this time of year. Having your wedding in the winter will give you another fond memory of the season.

Con: You’ll have limited choices for flowers

Unfortunately, winter isn’t known as the season of flowers. If you’ve always wanted spring and summer flowers in your bouquet, you’ll have to compromise. Luckily, you’ll still have a beautiful selection of winter blossoms to choose from. You can also opt for using fake flowers, especially if you’re allergic to specific blooms. However, keep in mind that the best faux flowers are often made of silk, so they can end up costing you more than natural ones would.

Just like any other season, winter has its advantages and disadvantages. It offers a unique and beautiful backdrop for your wedding vows. But you’ll also have to consider the unpredictable weather and how this may affect your venue and your guests’ attendance. Make sure to consider these factors when planning your winter wonderland wedding.