Depending on where a bride lives, a winter wedding may be less problematic than other seasons, or more so. Those living in the north and midwest can usually count on a lot of snow and wintry weather for a wedding held between Dec. 1 and March 1. However, brides in the south and west may not have these problems. It may rain in the south, but a heavy snow is not usually an issue.
Having said that, there are some things to be said for a winter wedding. Even though it probably shouldn’t be held on Christmas or New Year’s, the prevailing holiday spirit makes for a joyful time. These really are the only two bad dates in the winter. This includes Christmas and New Year's Eve, as well.
One issue that might be much easier during the Christmas season is decorations. Most churches and other public venues decorate for Christmas, so if a couple marries in a church, they will likely not have to do much decorating. Other venues suitable for a marriage, such as the hall of an art museum or a country club, will also usually have many Christmas decorations in place. It is more or less a given that, except in Southern California, the wedding will probably need to be indoors, and most any place that handles large groups can be made into a beautiful spot for a wedding.
Even after Christmas, decorations are somewhat simpler than for a spring or summer wedding, simply because of the lack of availability of some flowers. Pine, ivy and holly greenery are usually abundant, regardless of the season, and mums usually proliferate during the winter months. Evergreen plants can be twined around candelabra, and in the south, the large, green, leathery leaves of the magnolia tree make spectacular wreaths, pew decorations and table decorations for the reception.
Another advantage of a winter wedding is that the bride can comfortably choose a more elaborate gown. What would be torturously hot in the summer will not feel so warm in the winter. She can choose richer fabrics, such as a heavy shantung, or even velvet, have long sleeves and a higher neckline, all without being too warm. Her bridesmaids also have the choice of more luxurious fabrics and long sleeves, or jackets. Grooms’ dress usually doesn’t vary much with the seasons, so the groom and his attendants are generally taken care of, regardless of the weather. They will be wearing tuxedos and long-sleeved shirts, anyway, if the wedding is formal, suits if it is informal. A bride at an informal wedding can choose a suit made from heavier, richer material, as well. Even the mothers have the option of going more formal with fabrics and trims on their dresses.
One thing a winter bride needs to keep in mind is travel arrangements. Winter weather in one part of the country can delay flights all over. It can also make for hazardous driving. If she lives in a region prone to winter weather and has many relatives who would normally fly in, she needs to make it clear that they are under no obligation to travel in hazardous weather. She and the groom can always throw a spring reception when the weather clears, for these family members.
Of course, one popular option for winter weddings is to have the whole thing in a warmer clime. Some couples head south to Mexico or the Caribbean for their winter weddings. When a wedding and the cost of the reception and honeymoon are calculated, this option is as cost-effective as any other. And, they can still have a party at home, later.
Winter weddings are a viable option for most brides, as long as they understand the possible complications of weather and travel during this season, as well as guests’ holiday schedules, if the wedding is in December. When a bride deals effectively with these issues, she can have a wonderful winter wedding.
