winter celebrations
Is there anything quite as magical as a winter wedding? Cozy fireplaces, mugs filled with hot cocoa, and fluffy white snow. Some say winter's the most wonderful time of the year and, if you agree, it may be the wedding season for you!
From holiday music to wintry florals, these seasonal wedding details can add warmth and charm to even the frostiest of days. When you're newly engaged and contemplating what month to have your wedding, I highly suggest giving winter months a heads up!
December generally means holidays and celebrations, food, and family time—not necessarily wedding dates. But if you love all of the things that make this month so special, that's precisely why you should seriously consider having a December wedding. There are fewer weddings in December and winter in general, so your event is sure to stand out, and your guests won't have as much "wedding fatigue" as they do during the spring and summer wedding season.
It's the most wonderful time of the year...
...for a Christmas wedding! If you're a holiday enthusiast like I am, you might want to consider throwing a winter wedding close to Christmas. A December wedding can be the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season and basically throw the best holiday party ever.
Is a winter wedding in Greece a good idea?
Getting married in the off-season comes with perks, like more available dates at your venue, reduced rates, and less stress about the weather, since your celebration will likely be indoors. From wearing warm weather attire—nothing says chic like adding a faux fur coat to your bridal style—to crafting an outdoor bar to capture the spirit of the season (or should we say spirits!), throwing a festive fête worthy of the most magical time of the year will be the perfect wedding memory for the years to come! Plus, you'll have endless inspiration for photos, decorations, and signature cocktails!
It’s Easier to Book Vendors in the Winter
Most couples get married in late spring, early fall, or sometime in the summer. A winter wedding is out of season. So if you tie the knot between December and the beginning of March, there will be fewer couples to compete with.
That means it’ll be easier to book a reception hall and find vendors to provide your food, cake, and flowers. You’ll be able to plan the wedding of your dreams without having to wait three years for an opening at the venue you have your heart set on.
Most locations and vendors book up quickly during the summer months and come with a hefty price tag, whereas those same locations and vendors are available for a lower price during the colder months. Because the winter months aren't as busy as others, they'll also be able to focus more of their attention on your big day. Fall is tough for vendors and venue owners as they're juggling so many events, brides, families, vendors, and logistics.
You'll have more flexibility to come in and set up early or break down late, as there's likely not another event right after yours that the venue needs to prep for right away.
You’ll Have More Control Over the Uncontrollable
What I love about winter weddings is the lack of stress about the elements since they typically take place inside. The risk of rain and wind can make the planning period extremely stressful and potentially costly if you need to add a tent, she says. Also, guests are frequently exposed to heat and cold in all outdoor weddings and they can be very uncomfortable. Taking Mother Nature out of the equation means less stress for you, your vendors, your guests, and your family.
Anyone who wants to get married in the winter will likely have the ceremony and the reception inside. The weather won’t be as much of an issue. And if your florist or someone else has to cancel, you’ll probably be able to find a replacement more quickly since there will be fewer weddings happening at the same time.
A Holiday Wedding
Although the time of year might not be the reason you chose a winter wedding, there are many benefits to a celebration aligned with the holidays. Any venue you select will most likely already be decorated for the holiday season adding a more celebratory feel to your special day. And, at no cost to you. Strands of lights, fresh (or faux) seasonal greenery, bows, ribbons, candles, and more—many venues are dressed in their holiday finest during the month of December, which makes for great photo ops! Plus, you'll save money on decorations, so you can use the extra cash to splurge on beautiful florals or a luxe menu.
Friendlier Travel and Accommodation Costs
Travel and hotel stays are at peak pricing in the summer, when school is out and families take their vacation. Thus, winter weddings allow guests to take advantage of off-season pricing for their travel and accommodation options. This is a win-win for everyone, we think.
If your family gets together every year to celebrate Thanksgiving or one of the other winter holidays, it might make sense to get married at a time when everyone’s already going to be in town. Buying a single plane ticket for a trip in November or December will cost a lot less than buying one ticket for a summer wedding and another ticket for holiday travel.
Also, the winter scenery is always enchanting and the light crisp and perfect. Maybe there's snow, maybe there isn't, but either way, a winter wedding has its charms!
They're More Convenient for Guests
Winter weddings can also be better for guests who can't afford to take off extra time from work. Because summer is a popular time for vacations, the folks who would like to attend your wedding might not be able to do so if they've run out of vacation days in June or July.
Winter Weddings Are More Memorable
Winter weddings stand out. Someone who’s attended three or four weddings in the spring and summer probably won’t remember how one differed from any of the others. A wedding that’s held during the winter, however, will likely be difficult to forget, particularly if it happens near a holiday like New Year's or Valentine’s Day.
Couples who wed in the winter can play around with seasonal decorations, colors, and styles. A bride who would have otherwise had to settle for a sleeveless dress can surprise her guests by wearing a long-sleeved gown or a fashionable dress with winter accessories. Plus, snow-topped trees and shrubs can serve as a romantic backdrop for wedding photos.
The Wedding Fatigue Won't Be Real
The spring and summer months can get so jam-packed with weddings that your family, friends, and guests can start to get a serious case of wedding fatigue. A January, February, or March wedding is likely to be the only one your guests attend that winter which makes it something that people will really look forward to. Another bonus? You're likely to get your wedding film and photos back faster in the winter because your photographer and videographer are less slammed than in the spring and summer months.
It's Something Out of the Ordinary
From the color palette to flowers and décor, there are elements of the season to inspire your theme that will stand out in a sea of peonies. If your style is romantic, she recommends trying shades of winter white and lots of greenery, and if you're going for a rustic-cozy vibe, use lots of wood and deep hues.
Also, for December couples, the chance to celebrate your wedding anniversary during the holidays makes the whole feeling of the season that much more special. Plus, with the extra days off around the holidays, it's the perfect month for planning anniversary getaways—sun and sand, snow and slopes, or a weekend city escape, you've got options.
Winter Wedding Florals: Embrace In-Season Blooms
When you think of the winter and all of the cold weather, flowers may not be the first items to come to mind. In fact, it may feel as though a winter wedding wouldn’t allow you and your partner to have too many blooms from which to choose. However, that is not the case! There are plenty of blooms that are either only in season during the winter or continue to bloom all year long (hello, roses!) that are perfect to include in bouquets, boutonnieres, ceremony arrangements, reception centerpieces, and more.
Winter Wedding Flowers: All White
The good thing about all-white wedding bouquets is that they'll never go out of style. Consider using white blooms in a variety of textures for your winter nuptials. Queen Anne's lace is a good place to start—this seasonal flower known for its delicate lace-like texture will round out any bridal bouquet. If you're going for a tone-on-tone look, we recommend gardenia, ranunculus, and white garden roses.
Bonus Tip:
The good thing about all-white wedding bouquets is that they'll never go out of style. Consider using white blooms in a variety of textures for your winter nuptials.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Embrace Dried Blooms
The everlasting nature of dried flowers makes them fit for a wintry celebration. While dried blooms are often used in the place setting, ceremony arch, and hanging installations, they also make great boutonnières. If you're looking for an alternative to flowers, try dried berries.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Amaryllis
When we think of holiday flowers, amaryllis always comes to mind. However, there are more colors available than their typical shades of red and white.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Hypericum Berries
Though they are most often used as a filler and not a focal piece, hypericum berries are a winter wedding staple. They work well as a boutonniere, providing a playful pop of color against a dark suit. They can easily be incorporated into most designs, providing texture to bouquets, centerpieces, and more.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Sweet Peas
sweet peas are some of the most romantic flowers. They typically feature delicate petals and stems, so a bit of care is required.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Camellias
Camellias are one of winter’s gems. Their petals are layered, which adds plenty of texture to their appearance. Plus, they are in season throughout late fall and well into December. Their peak blooming season allows them to be readily available, particularly for early winter weddings.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Carnations
Carnations are some of the most underappreciated flowers. They are hard, which means they will continue to bloom and thrive during winter’s cold months, and they are also available in a variety of colors.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Anemones
Anemones are another readily available wintertime bloom, and the white coloring and dark black centers make them perfect for modern and industrial weddings.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Ranunculus
Ranunculus is in season during the winter, which is great news for couples who are fans of other soft florals, like peonies, because they offer a similar look.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Roses
There is never a season in which roses are not available, which means these elegant florals add flair to winter wedding centerpieces. Rather than opting for wedding white, we love how this centerpiece from Boston Magazine chose instead to focus on brighter shades of pink and red.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Orchids
Orchids are the quintessential Christmastime flower. Paired with simple greenery and hypericum berries, the orchids are transformed into something more than a simple potted plant.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Gardenias
Gardenias are fragrant winter flowers that are as fitting for bouquets as they are for boutonnieres. It’s the perfect look for a more formal wedding or one with a more classic feel.
Winter Wedding Flowers: Tulips
Tulips are often associated with the spring; however, their season actually begins in the winter. They have the ability to transform for varied wedding styles.
Winter Wedding Cocktails
When it comes to winter weddings, they're perfect for all things warm, comfy, and cozy. And, naturally, that extends to what you serve—from the salad to the cake and, perhaps most importantly, the cocktails! Incorporating classic seasonal flavors into your wedding's signature cocktail will create a delicious and unforgettable experience your guests will love. Incorporating flavors like eggnog, peppermint, and cranberry into your food and beverage can be a nice (yet subtle!) way to add a dose of Christmas charm.
Red is for Christmas
...that’s a fact! Adding seasonal elements to your wedding cocktails like thyme and pomegranate seeds will bring festive cheer to your wedding cocktails! But, they’re not just for Christmas! Red and green is a color combination relevant throughout the winter months!
Champagne & Champagne Cocktails
Is there anything more luxurious and versatile than champagne? No! Perfect for a wedding day - especially one held on New Year's Day, champagne is a wedding must!
Apple Cider Cocktails and Apple Liqueur
Definitely a warming choice for a cold winter day! Apple cider and warming liqueurs and spirits are ideal to give a tasty wintery note to your affair!
Winter Wedding Food
What better way to keep your guests warm and cozy than with good old-fashioned comfort food? Luckily, winter produce is full of starchy goodness: sweet potatoes, parsnips, and all manner of squash. Roasted root vegetables, steaming bowls of soup, and mashed potatoes will no doubt make everyone happy.
Take advantage of the chilly weather to enjoy these crowd-pleasing comfort foods and hearty setups. Winter weddings reap the benefits of serving crowd-pleasing comfort foods and rich sweets. Warm cheese appetizers, soup shooters, and creative food bars provide guests with hearty snacks in bite-size servings. Nothing beats a hearty soup – even at a wedding! After all those savory foods, make sure your guests satisfy their sweet tooth with go-to winter treats like a hot cocoa bar (with mint stirrers and doughnut holes!) or individual chocolate lava cakes!
Winter Wedding Cake Trends
For couples sticking with a traditional wedding cake, rich flavors like dark chocolate, caramel, and red velvet are perfect in the winter months. For especially non-traditional cake-lovers, why not try out a combo of french vanilla and bourbon, or even peppermint and white chocolate?
Frosting and icing can help dress any cake up or down, as well as accentuate the flavor. Keep your cake simple with flat white fondant adorned with seasonal accents, or go dramatic with edible gold leaf. The choice is yours!
A white wedding cake will definitely highlight the wintry aesthetics of your wedding day. It could totally work for an all-white wedding on New Year's Day and all throughout the wintery months!
Bold and Beautiful? It's always a good choice for the couples that want a memorable wedding cake inspired by a richer winter palette! Gold touches always add glamour and sophistication!
Frozen and calligraphed? Major winter inspiration right there for a snowy wedding day! Blue shades and a cooler color palette are perfect for that ice wonderland aesthetics!
Natural and Spicy? For modern couples opting for something more natural and organic (maybe for a Christmas wedding?), a wedding cake with cinnamon and ginger is lovely!
Dramatic and Colourful? Adding sugar flowers and a classic gold and white design will give you a luxurious wedding cake perfect for a festive wedding or even one held on Valentine's Day!
Monogrammed and classic? Definitely an excellent choice for a winter indoor wedding! Personalized wedding cakes are very beautiful and have a lot of value for brides and grooms!
Winter Wedding Styling
It's the Best Time for Black Tie
If you're planning a formal wedding, you can bet you'll hear much less complaining from your guests in black-tie attire when it's cold outside. Tuxedos weren't meant for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours in the heat of the summer, however, they are the perfect choice for indoor winter weddings, as are gowns covered in sequins.
You Won't Be a Hot Mess
Some people seriously don't deal well in the heat. It makes them irritated, cranky, and not to mention, a sweaty mess. When it comes to weather, you can always add layers to combat the cold, but in the hotter months, well, you can't exactly take off your clothes. If you're stressed about being hot and sweaty for your wedding photos, then a winter wedding is perfect for you.
Stunning Snowy Wedding Photos
If you're blessed with a sprinkling of snow ahead of your big day, you can snap some stunning snowy wedding photos that'll rival any sun-drenched summer snapshot. December couples in cold-weather climates aren't worried about the possibility of snow—in fact, they're hoping for it! What better excuse to ditch the heels or dress shoes for a bit, slip into some comfy boots, and cuddle up with your spouse for a quiet, intimate moment surrounded by jaw-droppingly gorgeous scenery?
Wear Long Sleeves
By tying the knot in colder weather conditions, you'll be able to take full advantage of all the long-sleeve wedding dresses. From illusion sleeves to high-collared lace necklines, there's a dress silhouette for every bridal style. Don't forget to top your look off with a chic sweater or add a fur stole for maximum warmth.
Whether the wedding is in Greece or Europe, every December bride or groom needs something cozy to wrap around their shoulders. Real or faux fur; cable-knit or hand-knit; a shrug, a shawl, a capelet, or a full-on coat—it's all about personal style and what looks best with your dress or suit. An added bonus: This special garment will keep you warm and cozy for many years to come.
Add Festive Accessories
While your wedding dress may be the main attraction, it's the accessories that will amplify your look. Channel your inner Grecian goddess with a gold hair comb or a seasonal hair wreath that's worthy of any bohemian bride. Shine bright with a patchwork sequin cape or consider adding a faux fur stole if you plan on having an outdoor ceremony.
Throw on a Sweater
Don't let frigid temperatures get you down. If Olivia Palermo's ceaselessly chic bridal ensemble is any indication, a sweater can be the ultimate finishing touch. Yes, there are bridal jackets, boleros, and fur toppers, but there's something so sweet and nonchalant about a sweater that can just be tossed on with ease. Besides knocking down the chill factor, a cream-colored or ivory sweater (to match your gown) is a great way to pile on an extra layer without adding bulk.
What could be more glamorous than a winter destination wedding set in a snowy locale?
There are stunning winter wedding locations in Greece, perfect for every couple that wants to celebrate their wedding in the winter months! But let me share some of my favorites!
Kazarma Hotel in Lake Plastira
Lake Plastira is a dreamy location, synonymous with peace & endless natural beauty. Every season has a separate & stunning scenery to offer generously, as well as endless opportunities for enjoyment and well-being. The Kazarma Lake Resort & Spa is built using stone and wood, but primarily exhibiting absolute respect for the environment, to ensure that your wedding day and honeymoon will be an unforgettable experience of hospitality.
The venue is perfect for a wedding day celebration in the winter, combining hospitality and warmth with stunning scenery!
Elatos Resort and Health Club Mount Parnassus
Elatos Resort & Health Club, just 2.5 hours north of Athens, invites you into the hidden evergreen forest of Mount Parnassos to celebrate those special moments in life!
The private stone church, hidden in the heart of the complex but just next to the Club House, and the venue's experience with weddings and christenings, will ensure unforgettable moments for you and your guests. The 39 chalets of the Resort are appointed to make everyone feel welcomed, in this truly romantic and warm atmosphere that has been designed and catered especially for your unique special day.
Pyrgos Petreza
Pyrgos Petreza, a unique edifice, combines nature and architecture, past and future, romanticism with comfort. It is a very nice choice for a winter event, as it gets particularly heartwarming in the winter months!
Xenia Palace Portaria
Xenia Portaria looks towards Volos, the Pagasetic Gulf, and the Mount of the Centaurs, with the aura of a hotel that exhales fine taste and style. Imposing, elegant, classy, and enthralling, the new gem of Portaria masterly combines luxury with traditional elements, exquisite services, and professional hospitality. Although perfect for summer weddings too, nothing compares with Pelion in the winter months!
Grande Bretagne Hotel
With breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium, the multi-awarded 5 star Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivaled perspective of Athens' mythical history. It is a stunning wedding venue for a winter wedding, especially during the holiday season where the hotel is breathtakingly decorated!
A winter wedding is charming for couples that want something different from the typical summer and spring wedding! Apart from the beautiful selection of richer colors and unique seasonal elements, a winter wedding is ideal for those that love snow and the colder months to celebrate their love story!
As Aristotle said :
'To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold'
Embrace the uniqueness of this time of year and celebrate it your way with the winter wedding of your dreams!
