Checklist for Winter Wedding Mistakes Couples Always Make
Brides may not have to deal with wilting bouquets or melting makeup in the scorching summer heat, but wedding mishaps are not guaranteed in colder months. There are some winter wedding mistakes couples always make.
Winter months have romantic and magical vibes, making them the perfect time to get married. Imagine these things on your wedding day: mulled wine, lots of sparkles, faux fur, and hot chocolates. But you should not also forget about potential snags.
While searching for winter wonderland wedding ideas, make this winter wedding mistakes checklist part of your planning. Don’t let these mishaps happen to your dream wedding.
1. Scheduling the Wedding Date Too Close to the Holidays
Many couples schedule their wedding too close to the holidays. They do not steer clear of dates that will coincide with Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. This typically results in a lot of guests declining the invite.
When picking the date, consider everyone’s calendars. You also need to consider the availability of wedding vendors.
2. Booking Separate Venues for the Wedding Ceremony and Reception
It’s exciting to have separate ceremony and reception venues. But this setup does not work with winter weddings. Snowfall might be a regular occurrence, holiday traffic could slow the trip from the ceremony to the reception, or the cold weather could meddle with the guests’ cars.
So, keeping travel to a minimum is advised. You can find many wedding venues that offer ceremony and reception options on-site.
3. Compromising Guests’ Warmth and Comfort
It’s a mistake to rely on the guests’ preparedness. Despite constant reminders, you cannot expect everyone to show up prepared for outdoor ceremonies.
Ensure guests’ warmth and comfort by providing hand warmers, blankets, or hot cocoa stations. You can also serve warm cocktails that make them forget the chill outside.
4. Failing to Address Travel Challenges
Winter weather can have a significant impact on everyone’s travel arrangements. So, remind your guests to check the weather forecast and leave extra time for travel.
If your venue is in an area prone to heavy snowfall, provide everyone with shuttle services or nearby accommodation options. This ensures your guests will arrive on time despite tricky weather conditions.
5. Underestimating Décor and Lighting Needs
Winter wedding theme offers many unique and breathtaking décor and lighting ideas. However, couples usually underestimate the décor and lighting necessary for creating a cozy atmosphere. You can incorporate winter-themed elements like candles, fairy lights, and evergreen branches.
Some couples also disregard seasonal availability, where some flowers are less readily available during winter months. Alternatively, choose flowers that thrive in colder climates, like lilies, orchids, and roses.
6. Not Purchasing Wedding Insurance
Unexpected blizzard is not just a problem for couples and guests but also wedding vendors. But many couples are not covered by insurance for costs associated with changing or canceling the wedding date.
If you’re planning to get married in winter, get wedding insurance. It will cover you in case of issues with the vendors or venues, like perishable items or uneaten food.
7. Forgetting the Winter Must-Haves in the Emergency Kit
Every wedding needs an emergency kit. But winter-themed weddings require a few extras. You can include hand warmers, tissues for runny noses, powder for pink cheeks, or even shoes for pre- or post-wedding activities.
You can also consider helpful goodies on welcome bags for guests who forgot winter staples at home. Gloves, hats, tissues, and hand warmers are thoughtful additions.
8. Not Dressing for the Occasion
Your wedding attire should reflect your personal style and keep you warm and comfortable. But some couples sacrifice their comfort for style on their wedding day.
Opt for elegant long-sleeved gowns, cozy wraps, or faux fur accessories to stay warm without compromising fashion. Also, provide attire recommendations for your guests. Remind them to bring cover-ups and other cold-weather essentials to feel comfortable throughout your event.
9. Overlooking Early Sunset
The days are shorter during winter, which means early sunset. But most couples fail to plan their ceremony and outdoor photography session earlier in the day.
To make the most of natural light, discuss the timing with your photographer to capture the best lighting conditions. But if you prefer evening celebrations, incorporate lighting options like candles, fairy lights, or string lights to create a warm atmosphere.
10. Not Having a Backup Plan
Regardless of when you are getting married, a backup plan is critical. But it is especially true for a winter-inspired wedding due to inclement weather. For example, build a flexible wedding day timeline to accommodate any changes or delays.
You can discuss any potential weather-related issues with vendors and make alternative arrangements. Prepare indoor entertainment or activities in case your outdoor plans are affected, such as a cozy lounge area, a photo booth, or interactive games.
Despite the beautiful snowy backdrops and cozy atmospheres, winter weddings come with unique challenges. But don’t let them ruin your special day. Following this checklist for winter wedding mistakes lets you capture the theme’s magic and unforgettable celebration.
References: