Making Winter Weddings Your Own

On this chilly winter day, all I can think of is getting warm and cozy. Of course, the wedding lover in me soon connected that feeling to the wedding world. Winter weddings are becoming increasingly popular for a number of reasons. Not only do they save a significant amount of money due to off-season pricing, but the weather itself can create an exceptionally unique experience for both the happy couple and their guests.

Photos in the blowing snow, fur stoles, and horse and buggy rides are classic favorites, but here are some ideas to set your winter wedding apart from others:

1. Hot Chocolate Latte Bar - We have seen the classic candy bar (which is honestly an amazing trend that is never leaving), but there is another amazing way to bring that warm, cozy feeling to your winter lovefest: setting up a late-night or even not so late-night drink bar with a wide variety of hot beverages in several flavors including tea, coffee , hot chocolate in white and dark chocolates, perhaps peppermint flavoring, espressos and lattes. Spend the extra money on hiring a barista for a couple of hours to make it all come together. It will be worth it. Of course, Bailey's and Kahlua would be an exciting and favorite addition to this winter treat.

(Courtesy of: Up Cycled Treasures)

2. Fireplaces - When exploring wedding venues with your significant other, why not find one that has a stunning fireplace that can act as a centrepiece to your beautiful day? This could be an indoor fireplace, acting as the backdrop to your ceremony, or perhaps an outdoor fireplace that allows for a warm area around which guests can congregate when they need some fresh air. With an outdoor fireplace, you can also set up a s'more station where your guests can enjoy a delicious treat. Places to consider where you may find a fireplace are ski lodges and wineries.

Photography by Stan Behal

3. Blankets and mugs - Unique, personalized and useful favors are always a must. Why not ensure that they go along with your winter theme? When I think of an intimate winter day, I think of curling up on the couch with a blanket and warm cup of tea. Now, your guests can go home with an item they can use. There are many websites, including The Knot Wedding Shop, where you can customize these unique favours for your guests so that they leave with a long lasting memory.

Courtesy of Evermine Weddings

4. Lighting - Set the scene and bring some more light to your day. With the darkness coming earlier and less natural light throughout the evening, be sure to find great ways to brighten up your venue. Lanterns on the tables, hanging lights across the ceiling, twinkle lights outlining the floor or perhaps the table, pin spotting on centrepieces, and up-lighting on the walls are just a few fantastic ways to bring extra lighting into your space. If you are planning your winter wedding and have not chosen a venue yet, be sure to ask about lighting options as you review locations.

Courtesy of Willowdale Estate

5. A creative colour palette - Just because it’s not the summer, doesn’t not mean you can't use bright colours. It is a common misconception that because it is a winter wedding, you have to use dark colours. This definitely is not the case. There are a variety of colour palettes that fit the winter weather, but are not dark and draining. Blush and pale blue with silver work beautifully. Not only do they go great with the greens of winter, they can brighten up the venue as well. Also, consider using pine cones as accents, as they work wonderfully with the blush and blues. Another stunning option is white and creams, with hints of silver. Want an accent? Add cedar. Cut out cedar rounds to use with centrepieces and small cutouts to use as place cards.

Photography by Stan Behal

Winter is a stunning time of year, so why not make the most of the season and create a wonderful, unique and cozy environment to celebrate your love? Don't let the cold hold you back!

Love always,

Everly and Grace

Writing your Own Vows: Do's and Don'ts

Writing your own vows is a beautiful thing and truly makes your special day just that. That being said, there are definitely some do’s and don’ts to consider before committing to this idea.

Don’t...

1. Feel like you have to write personal vows - Remember that you are getting up and sharing your love with hundreds of people and this can be a very overwhelming situation (even to the most outgoing and extraverted people). It is okay to stick to something comfortable. This could be words that you wrote together or that were provided by your officiant. Your day will be personal enough, even if you do not write your own vows.

2. Add too many “inside jokes” - Of course, you want your vows to be special and all about the two of you, but remember that you are sharing them in front of many. This is a special moment you are sharing and it is important that your guests understand what is going on. Now, that is not to say there should be no inside jokes or personalization whatsoever, but it is important to at least consider this.

3. Write your vows the day of - To many, including myself, they are the most important part of your wedding day so they deserve more than just a rush job the day of. Yes, writing them the day of puts you in a great state of mind, but if you are committing to marriage, you should be in a great state of mind regardless. They should be given the time they deserve. Why not write them a couple of weeks earlier and edit them the day before while you are practicing them? Because practice is a must!

Do...

1. Share them prior to your wedding day - Whether this is a special moment you set aside the night before your wedding, or if you have a close friend who knows you both read through them. It is nice if yours and your fiance’s vows flow together, particularly in length. It could be quite uncomfortable if one writes three sentences and the other writes two pages.

2. Practice them - You will be so full of emotions the day of your wedding no matter how strong you think you are, trust me! (My husband choked up during his vows and he is the last person I expected it from). When your significant other is out of the house, read them outloud to yourself or ask your maid of honor to listen to you. You can do this just a couple of times, but it will make a huge difference. 
3. Give an extra copy to someone you trust - If you have a wedding planner (like Alanna or I), they are the perfect person to hold on to your special words. One of your parents, a bridesmaid, a close friend, or an aunt or uncle are also all great options. There will be so much going through your head on this day and holding on to of a piece of paper may not be first on your list (not to mention, ladies, you have no pockets!).

Until next time!

Love always,

Everly and Grace