Wedding Wednesdays: 5 Winter Wedding Dos & Don'ts

Weddings aren't just spring and summer affairs. Now, more couples are opting to marry during what was previously the off-season for weddings—and why not? Between the romantic ambiance of a snowy landscape and the sparse competition for vendors and sites, there's so much to love about winter weddings.

So, we're here to say that if you're planning a winter wedding, know that you're not confined to a stereotypical theme. Instead, you can personalize your chilly weather nuptials to perfectly represent you and your partner. As you get creative with details, there are a few things you shouldn't overlook during the planning process. Below at The Knot's top five dos and don'ts for planning a winter wedding. Check it out!

Do Experiment With Colors and Textures
You shouldn't feel bound to a palette of winter whites, greens and reds that traditionally surround the holiday season. Instead, one of the best winter wedding ideas is to experiment with your favorite colors to create a palette that's unique to you. If you love pastels, consider hues with frosty undertones to compliment the seasonality of your wedding date. Similarly, bold colors will create an unexpected dimension to your decor, along with rich textures such as velvet, wool or plaid. Add depth to your palette by incorporating these details into your table settings or your bridesmaids’ shawls.

Don't Feel Confined to a Winter Wonderland Theme
A winter wedding doesn't mean you have to adhere to a holiday theme, especially if it's not fit to your taste. There are a variety of ways to incorporate winter influences into your design that don't feel stereotypical or expected. Hearty, farm-to-table menu options, rich fabric textures or interactive reception stations (like a hot chocolate bar) can all complement the time of year when you choose to get married.

Don't Overlook the Possibility of Inclement Weather
Weather can be unpredictable during the winter months, so it's important to make alternate plans in case of inclement weather. Arrange transportation for your guests from the ceremony to the reception, or provide them with local car services to help them travel between venues. Be sure to touch base with your ceremony and reception venue site coordinators to discuss anything you need to know about handling poor weather on the day of your wedding.

Do Create a Cozy Reception Space
There are plenty of ways to make your reception an inviting space. With the sun setting early, candles will add a romantic glow to your party, while lush and soft textures (think: velvet ribbon around napkins or chenille pillows in the lounge) will build just the right ambiance. To play up the theme, arrange fire pits outside or have a custom hot chocolate or hot toddy bar inside.

Don't Forget a Coat Check
If you’re marrying in a place where your guests will be bundled up, offering a coat check at your ceremony and reception spaces is an important detail that shouldn't be overlooked. Given that your guests will likely be wearing jackets, they'll want a safe place to store their belongings throughout your wedding day. They'll appreciate the thought behind the gesture since they’ll be focused on you (not their extra items).

Even if temperatures are dropping, and snow may be falling, you can make your special day exactly what you want it to be! Take The Knot's advice and devour the details of a winter wedding dream come true. You'll be happy you did!