Winter Wedding Photography

Planning a winter wedding

As I’m writing this, the days are getting colder, and the summer wedding season is wrapping up I’m looking forward to hopefully getting some weddings booked in for this winter and thought I’d share some advice on planning winter weddings.

While spring and summer weddings are often the default choice for many couples, winter weddings offer a unique and magical alternative that is worth considering. From the enchanting atmosphere to practical advantages, a winter wedding can provide an unforgettable experience. Here’s why you might want to consider planning your big day during the colder months:

Why have a winter wedding?

Romantic and Magical Atmosphere

Winter weddings exude a romantic, almost magical atmosphere. The combination of frosty landscapes, cozy indoor settings, and warm lighting creates a fairy-tale ambiance that’s hard to replicate during other seasons.

• • Snowy Backdrops: A snowy landscape can make for stunning photos and an ethereal ceremony setting. Even if there’s no snow, the winter sky and frost-touched surroundings have their own beauty.

• • Cozy Vibes: Winter weddings often take place indoors in venues that feature fireplaces, candlelight, and soft, warm lighting, creating a cozy and intimate environment.

• • Holiday Magic: If you love the holiday season, you can incorporate festive elements into your wedding. The decorations, twinkling lights, and seasonal cheer can add a sense of warmth and joy to your day.

Off-Season Discounts and Availability

One of the biggest advantages of a winter wedding is the potential cost savings. Since winter is considered the off-season for weddings, many venues and vendors offer lower rates compared to the peak spring and summer months.

• • Venue Discounts: You may find your dream venue is available at a fraction of the price during winter. With less competition for dates, you also have more flexibility in choosing when and where you get married.

• • Vendor Availability: Popular photographers, florists, and caterers are more likely to be available, giving you access to top-tier vendors who might be booked solid during the summer.

• • Travel and Accommodation Savings: Winter weddings can often coincide with lower travel and accommodation prices, especially if you plan your wedding away from the major holiday dates. Your guests may also benefit from more affordable travel options.

Choosing a Winter Wedding Venue

For winter weddings, it’s good to find a space that’s cozy and spacious – your guests are going to want to be indoors for much of the day, whatever the weather has in store.

As a photographer, I’m always going to be drawn venues that make the most of big windows, beautiful views and natural light. I also love a good urban setting in winter – they often add to the indoor cozy vibes. Some winter wedding venues in my area I love are:

Holmefirth Vineyard
The West Mill

Calke Abbey

The Bond Co.

Prestwold Hall
The Whitworth
Shottle Hall

Winter Wedding Photography

I’m not going to lie. Wedding photography is a totally different beast in winter. As someone who leans into natural light I’m going to be looking for the drama, the coziness and replicating that coziness. I’m also going to be quietly thanking every candle, fairy light and little bit of atmospheric lighting that comes my way.

The light at a winter wedding is often completely absent by 4pm, so it’s a good idea to hold your ceremony a bit earlier to make sure you can squeeze in any group shots or other photos that you’d like taking outside before the sun is gone.

Winter wedding decor and themes

Winter provides an opportunity for a wide range of unique and creative décor options that wouldn’t fit a summer or fall wedding.

• • Winter Wonderland Theme: Embrace the season with frosty blues, silvers, and whites, and decorate your venue with twinkling lights, snowflake motifs, and crystal accents.

• • Holiday-Inspired Details: If your wedding falls around the holiday season, you can weave festive elements like garlands, pine cones, or ornaments into your design.

• • Rich, Elegant Colors: Winter is the perfect season for dramatic color schemes, such as deep jewel tones, metallics, and luxurious textures like velvet or faux fur. You can create a lavish, elegant look that complements the season’s cool temperatures.

Things that are extra magical at winter weddings

1. 1. Christmas Decorations – These always add so much to the story and atmosphere. If you’re planning a ceremony around Christmas Day I’d definitely consider adding some.

1. 1. Sparklers and Fireworks – Sparklers in particular work so much better in Winter Weddings. Especially for photographers, as we’re still there when it’s dark.

1. 1. Firepits and hog roasts – Firepits can be both cozy and fun, and if you’re already planning fire pits, why not throw a roasting hog into the mix too (vegetarian options also available)