As we head into the colder months, the last thing most of us want to do is leave the warmth of our house. If you are planning your wedding during a month that is typically a little chilly, you may be wondering how to make your wedding extra cozy so your guests are more likely the put on their dancing shoes and come celebrate with you. Here’s how to turn the cold into an opportunity for coziness and intimacy, making your cozy winter wedding unforgettable.
Have blankets at the ready
If it’s actually cold on your wedding day, make sure your guests are physically cozy thanks to warm blankets or pashminas. Strategically placed heating lamps are always a good idea too.
Have warm drinks on hand
There’s nothing that says cozy quite like a mug full of your favourite warm beverage. Whether it’s hot apple cider during your ceremony or a hot chocolate bar complete with some liquor options during the reception– adding something warm for your guests to sip will be sure to keep them happy and cozy. For example, offer a warm drink selection with a ‘create your own’ hot toddy station. Offer a variety of spirits, spices, and garnishes, allowing guests to craft their own personalized winter cocktails.
Candles, candles and more candles
The easiest way to up the romantic ambiance in any setting is candles—even at a large party like your wedding. As long as your venue allows for open flame– add candles wherever you can, your reception centerpieces, ceremony aisle and altar are great places to start. If your venue isn’t keen on the whole fire thing, there are plenty of electric options available! Utilize a variety of candles – from tea lights to scented pillars – to create a warm, fragrant ambiance. Different candle types can set varying moods and add a unique charm to your cozy winter wedding décor.
Use smaller tables
Skip the long rectangular tables with high centerpieces and opt instead for round tables of 8-10. Smaller dinner tables are magic and your reception will instantly feel like an intimate dinner party instead of a formal event. Maybe even consider mixing and matching round and square tables, incorporating rustic elements like wooden chargers or centerpiece stands, to create a visually interesting and cozy dining setup.
Photo Courtesy of The Right Moments Photography
Family style dinner
Expand your family-style dining with dishes like a hearty roast, various pasta delights, or themed cuisines reflecting your shared heritage or favorite travel destinations. Keep your centerpieces low so that guests can see each other and serve family-style dishes to encourage a dinner party atmosphere and make food and conversation the focal point.
Serve comfort food
Simple, delicious food inspired by your favorite home-cooked meals will instantly make your guests feel like they are kids again. Work with your caterer to create a nostalgic, yet elevated menu that feels personal to you. Think tomato bisque and fancy grilled cheese; steak frites and of course, pie! Maybe even consider incorporating seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, squash, and root vegetables into your comfort food menu, bringing the essence of the season to your wedding feast.
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Create intimate lounge areas
Let’s face it, there are some guests who will need to take a break from dancing– so it’s a good idea to give them somewhere to sit. Rather than have your guests line the dance floor like an awkward grade school dance, set up pockets of comfortable furniture throughout the space so guests can sit, chat and have a drink. This is the best way to add a little cozy to your wedding and gives elderly or non-dancing guests something to do after dinner. Adorn your lounge areas with plush throw pillows, vintage furniture, or even a faux fireplace setup, crafting cozy nooks for guests to relax and socialize.
Cozy up to a fire
There is potentially nothing better than cozying up to a fire. While it won’t be possible at every wedding venue, adding a fire to your night after dinner is a great way to make guests feel cozy. And if you happen to have an acoustic guitar hanging around, we can almost guarantee someone will play it!
Fire Pit Safety: Cozy Alternatives
For venues where real fires aren’t feasible, consider LED flameless fire pits or outdoor heaters, ensuring safety while maintaining a cozy ambiance.
Musical Entertainment
Enhance the intimate atmosphere with live acoustic music. Hiring a band or musician to play ambient, cozy tunes can add a special touch to your evening.
Select a Venue That Feels Inviting
The venue plays a huge role in setting the mood for a cozy winter wedding. Choose a space with cozy touches like fireplaces, wood accents, or even big windows that let you enjoy the beauty of the season from the warmth indoors. Venues with a lodge or chalet vibe naturally feel more intimate, while historic homes or boutique hotels often have unique architectural features that add warmth and character. Bonus points if the venue offers winter packages, take advantage of perks like heaters, seasonal décor, or special discounts.
Surprise Guests with Warm Welcome Snacks
Nothing warms people up like comforting food on a cold day. Greet your guests with small bites that are as cozy as they are delicious. A station with warm pretzels, mini grilled cheese sandwiches, or little cups of mac and cheese will not only satisfy but also make everyone feel right at home. Pair these with mulled cider, spiced hot chocolate, or a seasonal signature drink like a maple bourbon old-fashioned. It’s a small but thoughtful gesture that ensures your guests start the celebration feeling cared for and cozy.
Add Romantic Touches with a Winter Theme
Cozy winter weddings lend themselves to a range of romantic themes. Whether it’s a “Snowy Fairytale,” “Rustic Chalet,” or “New Year’s Eve Glam,” pick one that reflects your style. Incorporate seasonal elements like frosted greenery, metallic accents, or faux fur details to bring the theme to life. A cohesive winter theme makes the entire event feel intentional and unique.
Add Dreamy Drapes to Your Décor
If you’re hosting your wedding indoors, drapes can completely transform your space. Use soft, flowing fabrics like chiffon for an ethereal effect or velvet for a cozy, dramatic touch. Hang them behind your sweetheart table, around the dance floor, or even along the walls to create a warm and elegant vibe. Add fairy lights for a glowing look that feels magical and intimate.
Make Sure Guests Know What to Expect
If any part of your wedding will be outside, give your guests a heads-up. A quick note about the expected weather on your invitations or website will help them dress appropriately because no one likes shivering through a ceremony. Suggest warm layers, stylish coats, or even cozy boots if the ground might be snowy. It’s a simple way to keep everyone comfortable and happy.
Wrap Your Bridal Party in Winter-Ready Style
Dress your bridal party in outfits that are both stylish and seasonally appropriate. Faux fur shawls, velvet dresses, or plaid accents can add a festive winter touch. For the groomsmen, tweed suits or velvet bow ties are great options. These details not only keep everyone warm but also tie your party’s look to the winter theme.
Plan a Unique Winter-Themed Send-Off
End your celebration with a send-off that fits the season. Sparklers are classic, but you could also try faux snow, biodegradable confetti, or a lantern release. These seasonal send-offs make for stunning photos and a memorable final moment for you and your guests.
We invite you to share your own cozy winter wedding ideas and experiences. Your insights can inspire and guide other couples planning their dream winter nuptials! Do you have suggestions we didn’t include? Share with us in the comments below!
