10 tips for Autumn & Winter weddings
Having a winter wedding is a great way to reduce your wedding budget. A recent poll found that during the cost of living crisis, couples are looking for ways to save money. Venues are usually cheaper to hire during the winter months and some of you chosen suppliers might be able to offer off-peak rates too. So, as winter weddings become more popular, I thought it would be handy to put together my top 10 tips for autumn and winter weddings. The rich colours, cosy venues and maybe even a sprinkling of snow can all add to the feel of your day. I’ve had a look back over my autumn and winter weddings to give you some ideas and inspiration.
Top 10 tips for autumn/winter weddings
- Consider an earlier ceremony time
- Make the most of the light
- Keep warm with stylish accessories
- Choose flowers to suit the season
- Use lighting to make your venue cosy
- Opt for seasonal table décor
- Choose an autumn/winter colour scheme
- Add seasonal finishing touches to your wedding cake
- Have a back-up plan for your couple photos
- Celebrate with sparklers
1. Consider an earlier ceremony time
In the autumn and winter months the days are shorter and you will start to lose the light at your wedding from mid-afternoon. Having your ceremony earlier means you can still get that confetti shot as you leave and we’ll have time for your group photos and maybe some photos of guests mingling over welcome drinks if it’s warm enough outside.
2. Make the most of the light
On your wedding day, one of my priorities will be capturing some gorgeous, relaxed couple photos of the two of you. The soft afternoon sunlight is ideal for capturing those romantic portraits so I’ll steal you away from your guests shortly after the ceremony to so that we can make the most of it. The autumn colours or even a sprinkling of winter snow will provide the perfect backdrop too.
3. Keep warm with stylish accessories
Layers and accessories are ideal for keeping you and your bridesmaids warm. Choose from a faux fur stole, shrug or a soft pashmina for a classic look. Or, if you’re looking for something I little quirky, how about a denim or leather jacket that can even be personalised.
4. Choose flowers to suit the season
Talk to your florist about what flowers will be in season. Using seasonal flowers will be cheaper and a more sustainable choice. From winter whites to berry reds, the flowers are one of the key items that make a big impact on your wedding theme. You could even add metallic touches or wintry elements such as thistles or pinecones.
5. Use lighting to make your venue cosy
Venues will naturally be darker in the autumn and winter months. Try to arrange to see your venue at the same time of year you’ll be getting married or visit in the evening when it’s darker. Get creative with fairy lights and candles or hire some specialist lighting. The venue may have their own or will be able to recommend suppliers they work regularly with. Think about having your speeches before the meal so that they can be captured while there’s still some natural light.
6. Opt for seasonal table decor
From the table plan to the place names, why not go for an autumn/winter theme? Think autumns leaves and berries for colour inspiration or maybe crisp winter white. Pine cones make cute table name holders and if you’re having a Christmas wedding then you could name your tables after your favourite Christmas songs or films.
7. Choose an autumn/winter colour scheme
There are so many wonderful colour schemes to choose from! Burgundy is always a favourite but if you love pastel colours then frosted tones of grey, blue and lavender work well too. Classic white always looks elegant and you can add a more rustic feel with textures such as hessian and lace. If you want a glamorous look then consider jewel colours and metallic finishes.
8. Add seasonal finishing touches to your wedding cake
There are lots of options for incorporating the season into your wedding cake. Decorate with pine cones, berries, deep-coloured roses and greenery for a rustic look or add some sparkle and glamour with blush and copper. Think about how the cake will be displayed to add extra detail to your theme.
9. Have a back-up plan for your couple photos
Let’s face it, we can get rain any time of the year here in the UK! It rarely rains all day and I usually manage to get outside with my couples at some point. I carry a supply of umbrellas with me if you’re happy to venture outside but it’s always a good idea to have a few spots in mind inside your venue too. Natural light is a must so look for large windows and light, airy rooms. A window seat is perfect too!
10. Celebrate with sparklers
Make the most of the evening getting dark earlier. After your meal, why not head outside for some sparkler shots? Check with your venue first about the health and safety aspects and whether they can help with lighting the sparklers. (I’m getting used to walking backwards with a blow-torch just behind me!) Also, buy the longer sparklers as getting everyone’s sparkler lit takes co-ordination and they need to last long enough to get the shot!
I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 tips for autumn and winter weddings. The photos featured were taken at the following Devon wedding venues:
Torre Abbey | Holne Park House | Rockbeare Manor | Bickley Mill | Trevenna Barns | Spanish Barn Torquay | Salcombe Harbour Hotel
