Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind when you think “wedding” – but it should be. There’s something undeniably magical about saying “I do” while snowflakes fall, fireplaces crackle, and everyone’s bundled up in cozy elegance. Winter weddings bring a kind of warmth that’s impossible to replicate; it’s intimate, enchanting, and oh-so-memorable.
Ready to turn up the magic? Here’s how to make your winter wedding totally awesome.
Snow-Kissed Ceremonies
Just because your wedding falls into winter, doesn’t mean you need to be cooped up indoors! Give your guests plenty of notice to dress warm and take your ceremony outside. The soft winter light and beautiful snow will make an excellent backdrop as you say ‘I do’. We suggest having warm, stylish lap blankets available for guests and possibly a hot drink station where guests can grab a warm beverage before the ceremony begins.
Photo Credit: Elizabeth In Love
Cozy up to a Fire
Winter is the coziest time of year, and nothing says ‘cozy’ like a nice warm fire! Give your guests a few locations to cozy up by a fire and keep warm. We recommend arranging seating in semi-circles around the fire for an intimate gathering space, and include marshmallow roasting as a fun activity for guests.
Candle Magic
Candles and winter go hand-in-hand—there’s just something about a soft, flickering glow that feels extra cosy when it’s cold outside. Use candles to create a warm, romantic ambience throughout your wedding. Line the aisle with lanterns, cluster tapers and votives across your tablescapes, or even fill an unused fireplace with candlelight for a dreamy hearth effect. Choose wintry scents like pine, vanilla, or clove for extra sensory charm, and don’t be afraid to mix textures – think frosted glass, stone holders, or vintage brass. Bonus: candles also make perfect wedding favours! A mini custom-scented candle is a cosy take-home reminder of your special day.
Photo Credit: Jessilynn Wong Photography
Cider Station with a Twist
What better way to set the mood for your winter wedding than hot cider? Offer a variety of spices or add-ons like cinnamon sticks or caramel syrup, allowing guests to customize their drinks. This is a great touch that will take your guests experience to the next level.
You May Also Be Interested In
How to Prep for Your Snowy Wedding Day
Take Your Winter Wedding from Cold to Cozy!
Cool Perks of Having a Winter Wedding
Snuggle Up in Style
Channel that snowy cabin vibe and grab some faux fur throws and shawls to really up the cozy at your winter wedding. Not only will these keep you warm, but they make for awesome photos. Have these items monogrammed as a keepsake for the guests!
Photo Credit: Whitney Heard Photography
Comfy Shoes
Winter is not the time to bust out the stilettos, so why not keep your toes warm with some wedding boots? Think about how cute you’ll look walking down the aisle in some white sparkly UGGS or embellished snow boots or custom-designed wedding galoshes that are both stylish and practical.
Winter Photos
Not only does snow make a beautiful backdrop for your photos, but it also offers many opportunities to get creative. Are you and your partner winter sports fanatics? Take to the slopes in your wedding attire and snap some awesome shots. In addition to the winter sports theme, other great photo ideas are ‘first look’ in the snow or using sparklers for a magical evening photo session.
Photo Courtesy of Purple Tree Wedding Photography
Send Them Home with a Hug in a Mug
Let your guests continue the cozy at home by making your favours hot chocolate kits. Include a specialty flavour, some mini mallows and of course, a mini bottle of crème liqueur. We encourage personalizing the hot chocolate kits with the couple’s names or wedding date. Also, suggest various flavor options like peppermint or mocha for added variety.
Photo Credit: Oak & Myrrh Photography
Après Ski Reception Vibes
We’re just putting it out there – everyone loves a good apres ski, so why not lean into it as your theme? Mulled wine, comfy seating and fire pits will all come together to make your wedding both memorable and awesome. Consider adding a s’mores bar, rustic wooden signage, and a playlist of cozy cabin music to enhance the apres ski ambiance.
Photo Credit: Oak & Myrrh Photography
Sleigh or Snowmobile Entrance
Kick things off in true snow-season style with a dramatic sleigh or snowmobile entrance. Bonus points if your guests hear jingle bells before they see you!
Custom Winter Scent Bar
Let guests blend their own mini essential oil roll-ons using scents like pine, clove, and vanilla as a take-home gift.
Snowflake Tattoo Station (Temporary!)
A whimsical little station for guests to get glammed up with shimmering snowflake or metallic tattoos. Totally Instagrammable.
Winter weddings are proof that magic doesn’t just belong to spring and summer. Whether you’re sipping hot cider by the fire or twirling through falling snow, your big day can be every bit as unforgettable – and maybe even a little cozier.
Any ideas we didn’t include? Let us know in the comments!
