Are you getting married between October and April? If so, there’s always a chance your big day might come with a side of snow. We do live in the Great White North, after all! But before you panic, remember Phoebe and Mike’s snowy wedding from Friends? It was adorable – and yours can be just as magical.
Here’s how to be prepared, cosy, and ready to celebrate – no matter what the forecast says.
Ensure Guest Comfort (and Safety!)
Keeping guests warm is priority #1. Set up a heated tent, create an indoor lounge space, or rent out fire pits if your venue allows them. Hand warmers, blankets, and a hot drink station (hello cider, cocoa, or coffee with Baileys) go a long way.
Think about branded toques or mittens as favours because they’re cute and functional!
On the practical side:
- Ask if your venue handles snow clearing (driveways, walkways, entrances)
- Make sure they have salt or sand on hand
- Bonus: check if they have backup generators in case of a winter storm
Your guests will thank you, and stay upright!
Photo Courtesy of Samantha Ong Photography
Communicate Like a Pro
Snowy weather calls for extra communication. Let guests know ahead of time to dress warm and bring proper footwear. If there’s a spot to stash boots and coats, mention it.
We also suggest:
- Asking guests to arrive 15 minutes early – just in case of delays!
- Setting up a private Facebook group, wedding website, or text thread for real-time updates on travel, weather, or changes
Provide Backup Travel Options
Winter weddings come with unpredictable road conditions. Provide alternate routes in your invitation or wedding website, and share a list of nearby accommodations in case guests want (or need) to stay overnight. If budget allows, consider organizing a shuttle or group ride share for extra peace of mind.
Lean Into the Season
Don’t fight the snow – embrace it! Hand out blankets or pashminas for the ceremony, serve warm cocktails, and fill your menu with comfort foods like soups, stews, or roast dinners.
Some ideas guests will love:
- Spiked hot chocolate bar
- Mulled wine or warm apple cider
- A coffee bar with flavoured syrups and liqueurs
- Cosy signature cocktails like “Frostbite” or “Northern Lights”
Let the weather inspire your menu and drinks – it’ll feel thoughtful and on-theme!
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Dress (and Accessorize) for the Weather
Your wedding day isn’t the time to suffer for fashion. Stay warm and stylish with:
- Faux fur shawls or capes
- Sparkly UGGS or white winter boots
- Elegant long-sleeved gowns
- Thermal tights or leggings under the dress
- Hand warmers tucked in your bouquet (yes, really)
You’ll thank yourself later.
Photo Credit: Mango Studios
Prep for Snowy Photos
Winter light is soft and flattering, and snow can make your photos look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. Hire a photographer who knows how to shoot in winter conditions. They’ll know how to manage low light, reflections, and chill.
Bring a few props:
- Clear umbrellas
- Lanterns or sparklers
- Plaid blankets for cuddly shots
- Mittens or matching scarves for your wedding party
Photo Credit: Oak & Myrrh Photography
A snowy wedding day comes with a few extra logistics, but it also brings unmatched beauty, intimacy, and magic. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and lean into the season – you’ll create a celebration that feels warm, memorable, and totally Canadian.
Did we miss a snowy survival tip? Let us know in the comments!
