Something Borrowed, Something Blue: Winter Wonderland Weddings

With winter looming I thought it was only appropriate to write a post on winter weddings. Despite the unrelenting cold, winter weddings, when executed correctly, can look immeasurably elegant and glamorous. They have an ethereal quality that really enchants the viewer. There are slightly different rules for winter weddings though. An outdoor wedding, while brave, is unlikely to achieve the same rustic appeal as a summer wedding, and with English weather so temperamental, it's unlikely to withstand the biting winds and rain. Despite this limitation though, there is incredible scope, in terms of creativity, where winter weddings are concerned. Due to the darker rays, brides can afford to opt for slightly heavier makeup than they can in the summer. While dark, heavy eyeliner may look too austere in bright sunlight, in grey-tone winter rays it adds welcome definition. Additionally, glitter is best saved for winter weddings. Although glitter should always be used tentatively, a light sweep of sheer glitter in the inner corner of eyes will open and brighten eyes; similarly, a delicate application of glitter across the cheekbones will create the illusion of added definition. If you have any features you are slightly insecure about, glitter is a wonderful way of drawing attention away from said features and focusing on your best bits.

Winter weddings also require slightly more planning sartorially, particularly given most brides want at least some pictures outside; consider choosing a faux fur shrug to ward off the cold, or a cream angora cardigan like Miss Middleton wore. Alternatively, a sweeping cape will look effortlessly elegant while keeping you warm. Bridesmaids will also require a cover up, and cashmere wraps are an excellent option; complementing any outfit, they are simple and elegant and won’t pull focus from the bride.

If you fancy creating a snow queen vibe, opt for large quantities of glass and crystal, and even an ice sculpture; the thought may make you shiver, but it will look resplendent at a white themed winter wedding, and copious amounts of glass and crystal will make the light scintillate. For a warmer, softer vibe, opt for copious amounts of candles and tea lights, or festoon the venue with fairy lights. Pine cones, gingerbread houses and snowglobes also create a fabulous festive feel, as do rich, dense fabrics such as velvet. In terms of colour schemes, white and silver is incredibly stark and striking, creating an ethereal ambience, while dark, warm colours like burgundy help to create a more festive atmosphere.

In addition to a slightly different set of aesthetics, winter weddings can also draw on different foods. Warm, chocolate based cocktails make a wonderful addition to any winter wedding, and if you want to capitalise on the festive cheer you can really focus on Christmas flavours - think cinnamon, orange, cloves, ginger, candied fruits. Serve a fruity concoction of champagne or cava mixed with mulled wine. It makes a delicious, warm, upmarket alternative to punch. Alcoholic hot chocolate or coffee with a healthy splash of Tia Maria also works well, particularly when accompanied by miniature doughnuts. Alternatively, cocktails with ginger and cinnamon will tantalise guests' tastebuds and offer a more subtle nod to Christmas. Hot canapes will also help to ward off the cold, and for a truly festive treat try chocolate coated chestnuts, which offer a modern take on a traditional treat. Chocolate fountains also work well at winter weddings, providing the palette with a pleasantly warm, silky sensation. If you’ve opted for a white colour scheme, co-ordinate with white chocolate, which will offer a wonderful echo. Where favours are cocerned, gingerbread cookies prove popular, but snowglobes and miniature Christmas trees are an interesting alternative.