Winter weddings are on the up! Having seen an 180% increase in its winter wedding bookings in 2018, Oulton Hall near Leeds has seen more and more couples looking to tie the knot during the colder months. Oulton Hall’s expert wedding organiser, Caroline Smith, gives her top five reasons for hosting a winter wedding, and lets us in on some handy tips...
Don’t worry about the weather
“An underestimated gift to choosing a winter wedding is that you know it’s going to be cold, but you can prepare for it. Winter months create less uncertainty and reliance on the British sunshine, so focus can be centred on creating the perfect indoor wedding.
“The winter frost and a light dusting of snow can actually provide the perfect backdrop for photographs, and early, darker nights can help to create a sense of atmosphere earlier on your special day. Try using candles to light outside walkways and end your day with a spectacular fireworks display."
Availability galore!
“During the spring and summer months there is a large demand for wedding photographers, musicians, specialised vehicles and venues, but opting for a winter wedding gives you the gift of availability. With lower demand in the winter months, this makes it easier to book many elements that you have always wanted for your dream wedding."
Fashion fun
“Winter months provide the opportunity to explore different colour palettes than traditionally seen at weddings. Experiment with dark reds, browns, blues, rich purples, sparkling silvers and rose gold for wedding outfits, flowers and the décor.
“The colder temperatures also opens the door to a whole variety of different wardrobe options. Faux fur is very popular and can be used as a wonderful accessory for the bridesmaids. When picking your wedding dress, why not opt for elegant long sleeves? There are plenty of fashion options which will make your wedding stand out from your typical summer event."
Get festive for a memorable day
“Couples can also have a lot of fun with festive décor to help make their special day memorable. You could have snow globes or ice sculptures as centrepieces. One of our couples even had Father Christmas arrive at the venue after the wedding breakfast, ringing a bell to deliver presents to the children. This little touch created a magical experience for their young guests. Instead of choosing a horse and carriage, you could arrive in a horse drawn sleigh. It'll certainly be a talking point!
“Winter themes also lend themselves well to tasty food and drinks options. You can offer your guests indulgent hot chocolate or mulled wine, with marshmallows to roast as a treat. The main meal and evening buffet can also incorporate festive flavours, from pigs in blankets to homemade mince pies.
Honeymoon heaven
“Most people only take weather into consideration in the country that they are tying the knot. However, marrying in winter months also provides the perfect time to honeymoon. Between March to October, the climate is ideal in popular destinations such as the Maldives and Thailand. It also tends to mean an overall lower cost, with honeymooners in summer often paying higher prices because of the school holiday season.
“There are many reasons to consider a winter wedding. It can help save money, but it also means you can secure all of the elements to your dream wedding, including unique touches to make your day truly memorable.”
For more information on Oulton Hall’s magical Winter Wedding package, please contact 0113 2014462.