Around 2.5 million weddings happen each year. Couples choose to have their weddings at different times of the year, from early spring weddings to a wedding right around the holiday season. No matter when you plan your wedding to be held, it’s important to have a backup plan.
Alternative plans are key to winter wedding planning. While any outdoor wedding carries risks, getting married in the cold months presents its own unique challenges. It’s important to be prepared, so your magical day goes off without a hitch.
This guide will discuss everything you need to know about creating alternative plans when planning a winter wedding. Don’t let Mother Nature stop you from having the wedding of your dreams.
Be Flexible With Your Venue
Getting married under twinkling lights with a blanket of snow in the background can be romantic. However, the weather might be too cold, or snow could start falling during your ceremony.
Most wedding venues don’t have only outdoor locations. While their outdoor location might be gorgeous, the venue typically has a ballroom or other indoor space. Make sure you pick a venue where you love both the indoor and outdoor wedding locations in case you have to move the festivities inside.
Provide Heaters
You’ll want many heaters if any part of your wedding is outside. Barns and tents might not be very warm either. Talk with your venue and planner beforehand to ensure the space is adequately heated.
You should also provide your guests with other ways to warm themselves if the weather takes a turn for the worst. Some elements you provide should include:
- Scarves, gloves, and blankets
- Warm drinks or cocktails
- Hand warmers and other warming devices
You want to ensure your guests are comfortable throughout the ceremony and reception. They’ll keep your tent secure in the event of heavy winds. You can also consider getting walls for your outdoor tent.
Have Someone to Help With Hair and Makeup
You and your partner might’ve gone outside to do your first look, only to have your hair and makeup ruined by rain or snow. Keep your hair person on-site throughout your ceremony to ensure there’s someone there to do touch-ups. You can also have a friend or family member help you if the alternative isn’t feasible.
Keep a Positive Attitude
Overcast, rainy, or snowy wedding days can have beautiful light that makes your photos look amazing. Clouds help eliminate harsh shadows caused by overly sunny days. You can also buy clear umbrellas to use in your photos or to move around your venue.
If you’re planning a winter wedding, you should expect some type of unforeseen weather event to happen during the festivities. Avoid stress by having backup plans, including alternative locations and even a delayed start for guests traveling through less-than-ideal weather.
Get Help From the Professionals for Winter Wedding Planning
While winter weddings can be breathtaking, a lot more planning goes into them. You might overlook details that could save the day during your winter wedding planning process. Finding the right wedding planner and vendors is key to helping your wedding plans go off without a hitch.
Wedding Details is the ultimate destination for all things related to weddings. Check out our wedding checklist to get started checking things off your to-do list.
Wedding Details is your comprehensive guide to all aspects of your wedding. From traditional ceremonies to questions regarding the guests, our website offers you one place to do all your research.