There’s something incredibly magical about a winter wedding. The crisp air, the possibility of sparkling snow on the ground, twinkling lights on the homes of all of our neighbors, adding in a layer of the Christmas season infuses even more fairy-tale whimsy into the celebration.
Elaborate decor, rich tones, indulgent dishes, ‘tis the season to create something decadent and memorable. Learn how to throw an incredible Christmas wedding by following the tips, ideas, and quick advice below. From the ceremony to the menu, we’ve got inspiration for every nook and cranny of your holiday-inspired event.
Ceremony
Your ceremony can easily take on a winter wonderland or holiday vibe. It’s just in the matter of details and the type of venue you’ve chosen.
Bring in red or plaid ribbons at the end of the altars or floating candles with greenery for spaces that you want to keep more neutral. A collection of small “Christmas” trees can act as a beautiful backdrop to the exchanging of the vows and lots and lots of white fabric help to evoke the snowy, crisp style of the season.
Flowers
First, start taking a peek at winter florals and what’s in season. Then, start chatting with your florists about designs and arrangements. Add pops of red and cranberry in to help transform your theme, but also pay attention to texture. Extra bouts of greenery, berries, and even pine cones can help along with the Christmastime spirit.
Florals that work well for winter weddings include:
- Lily of the Valley
- Anemones
- Ranunculus
- Amaryllis
- Gladiolus
- Orchids
- Thistles
- Dusty Miller
Bridal Party Style
When deciding on the bridal party’s ensemble, you’ll definitely want to take the time of year into consideration. Since your celebration is going to be holiday-inspired, bring that same spirit into the wedding attire.
Color
There are a lot of gorgeous tones to consider when thinking about the groomsmen and bridesmaids looks. Here are some of our favorites:
- Cranberry
- Emerald
- Plum
- Cream
- Sage Green
- Silver
- All White
- Sapphire Blue
- Fuschia
- Gold
Cuts & Details
Colder weather calls for gowns that give more coverage. Here are the best silhouettes and details to choose from – all of which are full or tea-length:
- Off-the-shoulder sleeves
- A-line
- Wrap-Around
- Mermaid or Trumpet
- Three-quarter or long sleeves
Fabric
Stay away from summer fabrics and go with those that are heavier or with more texture including:
- Taffeta
- Dupion Silk
- Jersey
- Layered Chiffon
- Velvet
*Tip: Think about adding a “layer” overtop the gowns. Cardigans, flannels, woven blankets used as shawls, they could all add fun photo ops and cozier comfort.
Food & Drink
There are so many wonderful winter flavors to utilize for a Christmastime wedding. From carving stations – think roast, turkey, and ham – to cranberry-infused cocktails, there’s so inspiration to be had from the holiday season.
Check out our quick list of ideas to serve up below!
Signature Cocktails
- Cranberry Mule
- White Christmas Mojito
- Mulled Wine Sangria
- Hot Toddy
- Salted Caramel Eggnog
- Pomegranate Mimosas
- Cranberry & Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
- Butterscotch Martinis
- Kahlua Hot Chocolate
- Apple Pie Cocktail
Hors D’oeuvres
- Cranberry Bruschetta
- Beer Cheese Soup Shooters
- Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
- Flash-Fried Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan
- Braised Pork Belly & Buttermilk Biscuits
- Maple Chili Popcorn
- Baked Brie with Raspberry Preserves
- Spicy Pecans
- Bacon-Wrapped Dates
- Mini Quiche
Soup & Salad
- Butternut Squash Soup
- French Onion Soup
- Cranberry, Pear, Walnut, Goat Cheese Salad
- Caprese Salad
- Tomato Bisque
- Pumpkin Soup
- Wild Greens with Candied Pecans and Champagne Vinaigrette
- Apple-Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Beet & Pomegranate Salad
- Spicy Chili
Entrees
- Baked Salmon
- Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken
- Rosemary Pork Chops
- Turkey Pot Pie
- Goat Cheese Ravioli
- Filet Mignon
- Stuffed Jump Portobello Mushrooms
- Shepherd’s Pie
- Baked Ziti
- Beef Enchiladas
Sides
- Parmesan Risotto
- Pear & Cranberry Stuffing
- Cheddar & Chive Mashed Potatoes
- Purple Potato Pancakes
- Truffle Mac & Cheese
- Roasted Garlic Broccolini
- Herbed Biscuits
- Honey & Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
- Roasted Zucchini & Squash
- Sauteed Carrots
Desserts
- Mini Apple or Pumpkin Pies
- Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle & Sugar Cookies
- Glazed Gingerbread Cake
- Peppermint Creme Brulee
- Bananas Foster
- Cranberry Layer Cake
- White Chocolate Mousse
- Chocolate Bread Pudding
- Snowball Cake Pops
- S’mores or Hot Chocolate Bar
Decor
There’s truly so much inspiration to be had when using Christmas as the theme for your wedding day. Without being kitschy or too literal, the colors, textures, and overall vibe of the holiday is one that will make your celebration easily come to life.
Here are some decor ideas to consider:
- Billowing fabrics in rich tones such as emerald and cranberry. Draped as a backdrop for the altar or all over the reception site.
- Utilize Christmas trees. Leave them bare for a more modern take or add twinkle lights (no ornaments) for something more romantic and magical.
- Dip pine cones in metallic paint or glitter and use them on the tablescapes for wintery texture.
- Poinsettias can add a solid punch to the cake table, gift table, and the like. Just don’t overuse them.
- Go extra on the greenery. Use garlands on mantles, staircases, on the tables, and everywhere in between to create a spirited, lush look.