Winter Weddings can be stunning
There can be few more romantic things than tying the knot with the one you love on a bright, crisp day. Or taking your first steps as a married couple with a blanket of pristine snow on the ground.
Nothing is more guaranteed to make it a day you and your guests will cherish forever.
But while planning a winter wedding in Ireland is no more difficult than a summer one, it is very different. Here is a checklist that will ensure your day is truly memorable and totally stress-free!
Pick your date
Winter is dominated by Christmas, and guests may find it hard to fit your celebration into their holiday plans if you arrange your wedding too close to December 25. Also most Wedding venues and entertainment may be fully booked, and prices are at a premium.
However, the week between Christmas and New Year may be just right – most people are away from work and all the pre-Christmas parties are over and done with, meaning you should be able to get a good deal on your chosen venue.
It will also give folk a chance to wear their Christmas party clothes again! And everyone can buy you presents in the January sales!
Any catered event will be quite costly. Although a three-course wedding meal is pretty standard, sometimes budgets dictate otherwise. A viable (and fun) alternative is to provide your Wedding guests with an open buffet.
Likewise, avoid an open bar if possible, for there is no doubt that a hefty bill awaits you at the end of the night. Offering free drinks only to a point will help you save money on your [town] wedding.
Pick your time
Daylight falls fast during NI Winters, so you will need to organise your ceremony for earlier in the day, and put a lot of thought into your wedding photography. You will need to have your pictures taken while there is still lots of that lovely flattering winter daylight. But don’t forget the weather – you and your guests don’t want to be standing around shivering. Liaise with your photographer and plan group shots in advance, so people can dash back inside quickly.
Consider having bridal preparation pictures taken, or arrange for your wedding videographer to be present from the bridal preps through to the first few dances.
It is also worthwhile arranging for your ceremony and reception to take place at the same venue. This cuts down on time and stops people getting chilly as they climb in and out of cars.
Pick your outfits
Fur wraps, cashmere stoles, pashminas, lace gloves, velvet jackets – there are so many ways to look lovely despite the weather. Colours that can look washed out in summer, such as pure white, ice blue, and silver, shimmer at a winter wedding. Deep colours are also stunning – rich reds and greens stand out against a snowy backdrop or a cloudy day.
Don’t forget to stay dry
Strappy shoes could have you freezing, slipping or sinking into the mud. Consider white boots instead, and talk to your photographer to make sure you won’t be posing for pictures on damp grass.
It is a good idea to make sure there is a clutch of umbrellas available to keep guests dry in case of a sudden downpour. Plain black looks classy, while there are some amazing parasol-styled wedding umbrellas. Imagine the stunning picture they would make!
If none of this appeals, there is always the option of getting married in Spain.
