Winter Wedding: 10 Awesome Advantages

You heard it here first: Winter weddings have a lot going for them. Yes, summer weddings sure are stunning but there are some downsides to consider. Sweltering heat could make a hot mess of a bride’s carefully coiffed wedding hairstyle. And with a hectic itinerary packed with other summertime nuptials, some guests might be forced to RSVP ‘no’ to your warm-weathered bash. Bummer, right? But with a winter wedding, you can avoid all that and get stunning snowy wedding photos, holiday-themed wedding decorations, and more. Being a winter bride or groom is basically the best.

Still on the fence about throwing a winter wedding? Then you’ll warm right up to these winter wedding advantages. From less stress over the weather to better vendors rates, here’s why you’ll be grateful to get married in the winter season.

Less Stress

01 of 10

One thing Dezhda “Dee” Gaubert, owner of No Worries Event Planning, loves about winter weddings is the lack of stress about the elements since they typically take place inside. The risk of rain and wind can make the planning period extremely stressful and potentially costly if you need to add a tent, she says. “Also, guests are frequently exposed to heat and cold in all outdoor weddings and they can be very uncomfortable. Taking Mother Nature out of the equation means less stress for you, your vendors, your guests, and your family.”

No Humidity

02 of 10

Living in the south—Charleston, SC to be exact—Francesca DiSalvo-Follmer, owner of Pure Luxe Bride, notes one of her favorite winter wedding perks is the lack of humidity, which, if you’re from the south, you know is a huge plus. Both your hair and makeup will thank you.

More Vendors Date

03 of 10

As wedding planner Kelli Corn of Kelli Corn Weddings & Events points out, most locations and vendors book up quickly during the summer months, whereas those same vendors are available for a lower price during the colder months. Because the winter months aren’t as busy as others, they’ll also be able to focus more of their attention on your big day, adds Debbie Ley, venue owner of The Corner District.

Bonus (and Free) Decorations

04 of 10

Although the time of year might not be the reason you chose a winter wedding, there are many benefits to a celebration aligned with the holidays, notes Corn. “For one, any venue you select will most likely already be decorated for the holiday season adding a more celebratory feel to your special day.” And, at no cost to you.

Cheaper Travel and Accommodations

05 of 10

Travel and hotel stays are at peak pricing in the summer, when school is out and families take their vacation, tells Gaubert. Thus, “winter weddings allow guests to take advantage of off-season pricing for their travel and accommodation options.” This is a win-win for everyone, we think.

The Wedding Fatigue Won’t Be Real

06 of 10

The spring and summer months can get so jam-packed with weddings that your family, friends, and guests can start to get a serious case of wedding fatigue, says Rachel Silver, founder of Love Stories TV. “A January, February, or March wedding is likely to be the only one your guests attend that winter, which makes it something that people will really look forward to. “Another bonus?” You’re likely to get your wedding film back faster in the winter because your videographer is less slammed in the spring and summer months.”

The Wedding Fatigue Won’t Be Real

06 of 10

The spring and summer months can get so jam-packed with weddings that your family, friends, and guests can start to get a serious case of wedding fatigue, says Rachel Silver, founder of Love Stories TV. “A January, February, or March wedding is likely to be the only one your guests attend that winter, which makes it something that people will really look forward to. “Another bonus?” You’re likely to get your wedding film back faster in the winter because your videographer is less slammed in the spring and summer months.”

It’s Something Out of the Ordinary

07 of 10

Smash And Co. wedding calligrapher, Ashley Meyers Combs’s favorite advantage is simply that it’s something different. “From color palette to flowers and décor, there are elements of the season to inspire your theme that will stand out in a sea of peonies.” If your style is romantic, she recommends trying shades of winter white and lots of greenery, and if you’re going for a rustic-cozy vibe (think “Aspen Cabin”), use lots of wood and deep hues.

Embrace the season by throwing blankets over guests’ chairs or keep them warm by serving a hot signature cocktail, Combs suggests.

It’s the Best Time for Black Tie

08 of 10

If you’re planning a formal wedding, you can bet you’ll hear much less complaining from your guests in black-tie attire when it’s cold outside, says Tracie Domino, founder of Tracie Domino Events. “Tuxedos weren’t meant for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours in the heat of the summer, however, they are the perfect choice for indoor winter weddings, as are gowns covered in sequins.”

You Won’t Be a Hot Mess

09 of 10

Some people seriously don’t deal well in the heat. It makes them irritated, cranky, and not to mention, a sweaty mess. Wedding planner Leah Weinberg, owner of Color Pop Events points out that when it comes to weather, you can always add layers to combat the cold, but in the hotter months, well, you can’t exactly take off your clothes. “If you’re stressed about being hot and sweaty for your wedding photos, then a winter wedding is perfect for you.”

Stunning Snowy Wedding Photos

10 of 10

If you’re blessed with a sprinkling of snow ahead of your big day, you can snap some stunning snowy wedding photos that’ll rival any sun-drenched summer snapshot.