As the colder months now start to draw in, we switch from those sunshine filled afternoons with weddings in the grounds, to the cosy indoor wedding weekends with fires lit and twinkling candelabras.
Winter weddings are quite simply magical! With crisp, clear winter mornings, rich colour schemes, Christmas trees and festive entertainment, it is set to be a special event.
We have put together our top tips to help build your perfect Winter Wedding…
1.Visit us in winter
It may seem obvious, but if you are planning to get married in a year or more than try to visit Huntsham Court during the winter time to experience the house in the cooler months. You can then get an idea of the setting and how you would dress and layout the rooms.
Why not see if you photographer can join you as well so they can look at the lighting and where would be good to use for couple shots if the weather doesn’t allow for outside photos.
2. Check out the decorations
If you plan to get married just before or just after Christmas, we will likely have our fabulous decorations up. The décor in the house tends to be very traditional, so think greens, reds, golds and twinkling lights. You can check out our Pinterest as well for examples of the decorations that will be up, so you can then plan what you may want to add!
Click here to see our decorations.
3. Cosy accessories
We particularly love one of the wedding trends of 2019, the cape!
This stylish accessory will be the perfect layer for bridesmaids and brides to keep warm. The humble pashmina is also a great accessory to keep those bare shoulders warm in between photos.
A fan of faux fur? Why not opt for a luxuriously soft and warm stole to wrap around yourself, it will add glamour while keeping you cosy.
4. Festive wear for the boys
It’s not just about the girls when it comes to thinking about the outfits carefully. With the change of the seasons, the Groom and his Ushers can turn their attention to thick fabrics like velvet, tweed and tartan. Not only will these be warmer, but they will look incredibly stylish.
Click here for some velvet suit inspiration!
5. Shine bright like a diamond
Christmas is the time of year for sparkles and all things that glitter, so why not go for sequin or beaded bridesmaid dresses, or even for the wedding dress itself! You could always look at a second dress to change into for the evening. You will sparkle under the lights which will be incredible for the photos.
6. Choose Winter Wedding Favours
Thinking of favours for the wedding breakfast table? Why not choose a festive favour:
- Candy canes
- Mulled wine spices
- Crackers
- Chocolate coins
- Personalised baubles
- Ginger Bread men
7. Add a festive touch
Why not look at other wintery elements such as a hot chocolate station, with marshmallows and whipped cream? Pop a few bottles like Baileys, Whisky, Kahlua nearby and guests can add a shot as well.
Consider carol singers! We often have the piano being played in the afternoon, why not get some local carol singers involved and your guests will soon be joining in.
Theme your canapes and serve your guests pigs in blankets, devils on horseback, mini stuffing balls, salmon blinis, brie and cranberry bites… the list is endless!
8. Winter flowers
Remember that a lot of the more tropical flowers will be out of season now and will have to be shipped/flown in from abroad. Instead, embrace the seasons blooms with winter greens, ivy, berries, pine cones and classic whites.
Click here for some examples of winter wedding flowers.
9. Allow Extra Travel Time
Take into consideration the time of year and what may be taking place locally like carnivals… and keep an eye on the weather! The closer we get to Christmas, the more traffic there will be on the roads, so allow yourself plenty of time to get to the venue.
Make sure to send out directions to your guests or give them the link to our website so they have plenty of time to plan out their journey.
10. Add Warm Touches
Serve mulled wine or mulled cider instead of the traditional champagne for the reception, your guests can warm their hands up in between outdoor photos and the house will smell amazing!
Though we can’t allow fireworks at Huntsham, you could enjoy the firepits lit outside the front door and hand out sparklers for a great evening photo opportunity.
Light the fires indoors at key points, such as the reception. The crackle of the flames in the background will add that homely touch. The fire in The Bar snug is the perfect spot in the evening to sit and relax with a night cap.
Want to see some more of our top winter wedding ideas and inspiration? Why not head to our Pinterest board.