Winter Wonderland Wedding Ideas

Samantha Richards

Have you ever dreamed of saying “I do” surrounded by glistening snowflakes and the soft glow of twinkling lights? Winter wonderland weddings offer a magical and romantic setting for couples who embrace the frosty season and want to create an unforgettable celebration.

In this guide, we explore everything from breathtaking winter décor to cosy and comforting cuisine that warms the hearts of all who attend. We share tips and ideas that will make you fall in love with the idea of a winter wonderland wedding.

Benefits of having a winter wonderland wedding 

There are a whole host of benefits to having your special day during the autumn months, including;

Magical and Romantic Atmosphere:

The snowy backdrop creates a fairytale-like ambiance, enhancing the overall romance and charm of the wedding. The sparkling white surroundings and the soft glow of winter lights add a touch of magic to the event.

Unique and Memorable

Winter weddings are less common compared to weddings in other seasons, making it a unique and memorable experience for both the couple and guests. The picturesque setting and cosy warmth of the celebration will be etched in everyone’s memories.

Availability and Flexibility

With fewer weddings taking place in winter, you are more likely to secure the venue and vendors of your choice, and at a cheaper price. You can also negotiate better deals and discounts due to the reduced demand.

Destination Possibilities

Winter wonderland weddings can be perfect for those who love snowy destinations and enjoy winter activities. You can choose a location that offers opportunities for skiing, ice skating, or even a destination wedding in a picturesque snowy location.

If you’re feeling extra creative, why not choose an outdoor space for your winter wonderland wedding? Stretch tents are a fantastic option for outdoor autumn weddings and outdoor winter weddings and can be heated sufficiently so that all guests are comfortable.

Unique Menu Options

Winter weddings allow for a different selection of food and drink compared to other seasons. You can incorporate warm and comforting dishes like soups, roasted meats, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and various winter-inspired desserts.

Winter Wonderland Wedding Themes

Winter weddings offer a magical backdrop, turning your special day into a winter wonderland filled with enchantment. Let’s explore three captivating themes that will transform your celebration into a snowy spectacle.

Ice Blue Winter Wonderland Wedding Theme

Picture this: a serene landscape draped in glistening ice and pure snow. An ice blue winter wonderland wedding captures the elegance of winter’s icy embrace. Choose a colour palette dominated by shades of frosty blue and silver. 

Adorn your venue with shimmering icicles and delicate snowflakes. Incorporate silver accents in table settings, bouquets, and even the groom’s boutonniere. Consider a breathtaking ice sculpture as a centrepiece, reflecting the ethereal beauty of the season. This theme evokes a sense of calm and tranquillity, providing a stunning visual representation of the winter wonderland.

Winter Berries and Foliage Theme

Embrace the rich, warm hues of winter berries against a snowy canvas for a cosy and rustic winter wedding theme. Deep reds, lush greens, and dark browns create a natural and inviting atmosphere. Incorporate seasonal berries into your bouquet, centrepieces, and even the wedding cake for a burst of colour against the winter backdrop. 

Intertwine evergreen branches and pinecones into your decor, bringing a touch of the forest indoors. Consider a forest-inspired ceremony, exchanging vows beneath an arch adorned with winter foliage. This theme seamlessly blends the raw beauty of nature with the romance of a winter wonderland.

Starry Night Theme

Evoke the magic of a winter night sky with a starry night wedding theme. Imagine your venue adorned with twinkling lights, reflecting the brilliance of a clear winter night. Incorporate celestial elements into your decor, from star-shaped centrepieces to hanging fairy lights that mimic a blanket of stars. 

Opt for a deep, midnight blue colour palette contrasted with silver or gold accents to create an elegant and celestial ambiance. Encourage your guests to embrace the theme by providing starry accessories like glow-in-the-dark bracelets and celestial-themed favours. This enchanting theme captures the romantic allure of a winter night, making your wedding a celestial celebration.

Winter Wedding Inspiration

While themes set the tone, it’s the finer details that elevate your winter wonderland wedding to a realm of pure magic. Let’s draw inspiration from essential elements, from the wedding cake to the invitations.

Winter Wonderland Wedding Cakes

A winter wonderland wedding cake is more than a dessert; it’s a masterpiece that reflects the charm of the season. Opt for a white, tiered cake resembling snow-covered peaks. Enhance the wintry vibe with intricate snowflake decorations made of fondant or delicate piping. 

Consider flavours like white chocolate or peppermint for a festive touch. Adorn the cake table with pine cones, foliage and candles or perhaps even faux snow to create a captivating scene. This delectable centrepiece will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also add a touch of elegance to your winter wonderland.

Winter Wonderland Invitations

Set the tone for your winter wonderland wedding with enchanting invitations that transport guests to a world of snow-kissed romance. Choose a colour scheme that aligns with your chosen theme, whether it’s icy blues, warm reds, or celestial midnight hues. Incorporate snowflakes, winter berries, or starry motifs into the invitation design. Consider using materials like vellum or metallic accents to evoke a frosty and luxurious feel. A winter wonderland-themed invitation is not just a piece of paper; it’s a sneak peek into the magical celebration awaiting your guests.

Hot Chocolate Bars

Create a cosy corner with a hot chocolate bar featuring an array of toppings, from marshmallows to peppermint sticks, warming both hearts and hands.

Snowy Photo Booth Backdrop

Provide a picturesque photo booth backdrop resembling a snowy landscape, complete with faux snow, twinkling lights, and props like mittens and snow hats.

Snow Globe Centerpieces

Use oversized snow globes as centrepieces, personalised with miniature figurines representing the couple, turning each table into a unique winter wonderland.

Ice Queen-Inspired Makeup

Channel your inner Ice Queen with iridescent makeup, incorporating shades of silver, icy blue, and subtle shimmer for a glamorous and otherworldly look.

Winter-Themed Signature Cocktails

Create signature cocktails inspired by winter flavours, such as a “Frosty Mule” with ginger and mint or a “Snowfall Sangria” featuring seasonal fruits.

Pine Cone Place Settings

Incorporate natural elements into your place settings with pine cones adorned with calligraphy name tags, adding rustic charm to your winter tablescape.

Winter wonderland wedding FAQs

What colours are best for a winter wonderland wedding?

Colours that are commonly associated with a winter wonderland wedding include:

  • Shades of blue: Light blues, icy blues, and deep navy blues resemble the crispness of winter.
  • White: Symbolising the purity of snow, white is a classic choice and can be incorporated into various elements, such as table linens, flowers, and attire.
  • Silver or grey: These metallic shades add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall theme. They can be used for table decor, candle holders, or even bridesmaid dresses.
  • Pale pink: Soft blush or dusty rose shades can add a subtle hint of warmth to the winter palette, representing delicate winter blooms or rosy cheeks.
  • Sparkling gold: Incorporating gold accents can add a luxurious touch and create a shimmering effect reminiscent of glittering snowflakes.
  • Deep purple: Adding hints of deep purple or plum can lend a rich and mysterious aura to the winter wonderland theme.

It’s essential to consider your personal preferences and how these colours will complement your overall vision for the wedding. Remember to take into account the venue, lighting, and specific winter elements you wish to incorporate when finalising your colour scheme.

What month is best for an outdoor winter wonderland wedding?

Stats show that many couples choose January as the month for their winter wedding. Choosing January for your winter wedding allows you to start the new year with a beautiful celebration, plus, many venues offer discounted rates in January, which can be advantageous if you’re working with a budget. 

What should the bride and groom wear for a winter wonderland wedding?

Bride:
For the bride, a winter wonderland wedding offers multiple options. You can opt for a traditional white gown with long sleeves and a faux fur stole or cape to stay warm. Alternatively, you could choose a gown with intricate beading or silver embroidery to add a touch of sparkle. Consider wearing a crystal-embellished hairpiece or a faux-fur headband to complete the winter look.

Don’t forget the bridesmaids! Keep your bridal party warm and stylish by gifting them luxurious faux fur shawls, doubling as chic accessories and practical winter attire.

Groom:
As for the groom, a stylish and warm option would be a velvet or tweed suit in a dark colour like navy or charcoal. Pair it with a classic white dress shirt, a textured tie or bowtie, and leather dress shoes. A coordinating winter-themed boutonniere, such as a white rose with silver foliage or a tiny pinecone, can add a special touch.

Remember to communicate the suggested dress code to your guests, so they can also come prepared to embrace the winter wonderland theme.

Discover stretch tents for your outdoor winter wonderland wedding

Provide the ultimate outdoor shelter for your guests with a stunning stretch tent available in a variety of sizes to suit a variety of needs. Opt for a smaller stretch tent to provide an outdoor seating area adorned with lights and winter wonderland decorations – or choose the largest stretch tent to create a complete outdoor dance floor, bar area and seating area. 

Ensure you’re keeping your guests warm enough and providing blankets and heating if you plan to have the entirety of your wedding outdoors during the winter months!

Previous article Outdoor Autumn Wedding Ideas Next article The Complete Spring Gardening Checklist 2024