The winter season can be a difficult time for your skin, especially if you’re living in a sunny or dry climate. There is no telling what the weather is going to be like from day to day. One day it can be humid, and the next day cold and wet. The changes in the weather have a great impact on the human skin. The cold weather can dry up your face, while hot weather can cause oily skin to appear. Maintaining a daily skin routine can help you keep your skin feeling soft and looking beautiful.

Acidic Remedy for Radiance

Acidic remedies are a popular way of dealing with skin issues. Lemon juice and lime juice are also great remedies for getting your skin to look healthy. Lemon juice can help brighten your skin and help you get rid of any residue that is stuck in your pores. It is made up of natural nutrients such as Vitamin C and citric acid that can help skin thrive and shine. The lemon or lime juice is also antibacterial, so it will eliminate bacteria that is trying to enter your pores. After squeezing a few lemon or lime drops on your skin, the results can be seen within 24 hours.

Skin Hydration

Another great way to keep healthy and beautiful skin is to maintain bodily hydration. The amount of water your body needs is approximately 64 ounces per day. Staying hydrated not only benefits your skin, but also can improve your overall health. Washing your skin every day is a great way to keep it looking radiant and hydrated. Taking hot baths and showers can sometimes have a damaging effect on your skin, breaking down lipid layers of your skin, which leads to a loss of moisture within the body. You should bathe or shower with lukewarm water to avoid damaging your skin.

Body Washes and Moisturizers

Another good way to maintain soft and beautiful skin is to use baby shampoo for both your hair and your body. When showering or bathing, using baby shampoo as a body wash can have immediate, positive effects on your skin. Strictly speaking, this product is produced and manufactured for babies who have delicate skin, meaning it won’t cause any harm to adults if used as a body wash. In fact, baby shampoo helped my skin recover from dry patches and oily glands throughout the whole month of December.

To keep your skin beautiful and soft, any type of body lotion is helpful. Moisturizing after every shower and a face wash should be a part of your everyday routine. Moisturizing regularly helps the skin stay hydrated and soft for days to come, whatever the weather outside is doing.

Exfoliate Your Skin Regularly

Exfoliating body washes are also a fantastic way to maintain radiant skin throughout the wintertime. Body washes, such as St. Ives, help your skin stay soft and hydrated. This body wash is applied with a bath sponge or body scrubber that can be used in either the shower or bath. The body wash opens the pores and cleans the skin of dirt or residue that has accumulated. Exfoliating a few times a week can help build strong and radiant skin.

Some Home Remedies for Dealing with Acne

The last thing you want to see is acne coming on close to your wedding day! Here are a few home remedies to help deal with acne faster.

First, if you have acne starting up, put saliva on the affected area as soon as you wake up. Sounds strange, but this actually works! The saliva produced in your mouth while you sleep is highly acidic, making it a water-based natural treatment that dries out pimples and acne when they are developing. After a few minutes, the saliva dries up and you can go ahead and wash your face thoroughly with a facial wash of your choice.

Recently, after a pimple outbreak during the holidays, I was told to apply toothpaste to the affected area. Toothpaste can be applied to acne and pimples right before going to bed or when you wake up. The toothpaste helped to rid the acne faster than just letting it disappear on its own. The toothpaste irritates the skin, causing the pimple and acne to peel and disappear more quickly.

In order to keep skin looking soft and beautiful during these tough winter months, you must hydrate, moisturize, and exfoliate your skin. These three simple steps should become a part of your daily skin-care routine. Once you practice your skin-care routine every day for at least a week, the results will be obvious. Maintaining a strong skin routine will help prevent your skin from getting acne or having random pimple outbreaks and other skin irritations right before your big day.

It’s seven days until “The Big Day”… and you can feel a tickle at the back of your throat. Rather than panic about being ill during your wedding, there are a few practical steps you can take. By preparing yourself on each day before the wedding, you are more likely to recover in time. Colds tend to last only a few days, and so by noticing how you are and listening to your body, you can ensure that you are ready for the excitement of the week without getting overwhelmed by illness.

Day 1

You noticed the tickle, so start up a supplement: Vitamin C, Zinc, or whatever has helped you in the past. It might be a big bowl of vegetable soup, and definitely aim away from alcohol and those beloved junk foods. Healthy foods and a good vitamin will give your body what it needs. More than anything else, begin drinking lots of water and herbal tea, which is both soothing and good for helping you to wash sickness out of your system.

Day 2

Still around? Figure out how to add a nap to your day or an extra hour of sleep. It may mean delegating a task or two to a friend or family member, but you will not regret letting someone else go meet with the florist if it means that you can sleep the cold away. Often, the amount of sleep you get directly impacts how quickly you get over a cold. It can be hard to take time off work (especially if you already have a honeymoon booked for some days), but look into your options for shifting your hours a little for more sleep, taking a nap during lunch, or working remotely so you can sleep during your normal commute time.

Day 3

If it is still persisting, consider taking a sick day from work or a metaphorical sick day from wedding prep: sleep, rest, and generally relax. You can even make your sick day a “craft time,” pulling your seating chart, ribbon, and tulle close to your bed so that between naps you can get a few small things done. This will help you feel accomplished and tire you out a little so you can sleep some more.

Day 4

Continue doing all the activities you’ve done so far, with hydration, healthy food, and rest, but if you haven’t already, look into some really good cold medicine. Everyone reacts differently and has slightly different symptoms, but by testing out which ones help today, you have a better chance at figuring out something that will clear you up for the duration of the ceremony and reception. If you can, check all make-up you are planning to use during rehearsal and the big day; make sure they are waterproof and not likely to run!

Day 5

Find a way to pamper yourself. Even if the cold is persisting a little, a massage or a pedicure is a great way to get in the mood without actually having to run all over town. Once again, get as much sleep as you can! The next few days will be a whirlwind. This is a great time to assign a couple of to-dos to a bridesmaid, sister, or other friend and take time for yourself to convalesce.

Day 6 and 7

These are… the final days. Most likely, your excellent care for yourself has cured you of your cold! You are free to enjoy the wedding, the reception, and all the love and hugs from friends and family.

However, if your cold doesn’t arrive until the day of the rehearsal or the morning of your ceremony, there is still no reason to panic. Most dresses have somewhere a tidy little tissue can fit, you can take a good, strong, anti-drowsy, cold medicine to clear you up at the right time of day. The honeymoon will be a perfect time to eat delicious food and really rest after the many wonderful memories. Many people enjoy their wedding just as much, even if they had a little cough or sneeze here and there – some sneezes even break the tension among your friends and family!

Regardless, know that a cold cannot take away how special your commitment is to each other, and just a few simple tools can make your day spectacular even if you caught what was going around.

When you look at wedding pictures, it is easy to assume everything is perfect – from hair to shoes. However, one long-term investment that is easy to miss, is keeping one’s skin healthy. Not only does keeping your skin healthy make you look great on your wedding day, it also makes you feel better and more present when you don’t have to deal with oily or dry skin. While make-up is great for hiding blemishes, make-up looks even better on skin that is already healthy, moisturized, and clean.

Start Your Skin Regimen with Healthy Food and Drink

One of the easiest ways to care for your skin is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink a lot of water. Fruits and vegetables, in addition to being very healthy in many other ways, provide many of the nutrients and vitamins that are necessary for healthy, functional skin. Water, on the other hand, prevents you from getting dehydrated which has a negative impact on your skin. These two things are very simple, but will do more for you than many other beauty tips can do. Another perk is that eating healthy foods and drinking lots of water can help your sleep and your nerves, making wedding planning and preparation better in other respects!

Cover Your Skin in Wind and Cold Weather

To protect your skin, you also have to think about the weather and dress appropriately. Windburn makes your skin dry, itchy, and painful. Wearing wind-breaking clothing when it’s windy is a must, especially during cold months. I am guilty of forgetting the hat, gloves and scarf at times. Honestly, wearing these items always makes me more comfortable and keeps my skin from getting flaky and dry. On the other hand, sunburn causes skin to flake off in sheets and can contribute to skin cancer, so wearing plenty of sunscreen is a good idea. If you use facial make-up foundation or concealer, make sure that you choose one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more. Don’t be fooled by the cold weather- you can still get sunburned in the winter if you have prolonged exposure to the sun.

Choose the Right Skin Products

When it comes to skin products, it can be hard to know what will make your particular skin healthy and happy. It is important to learn about your skin type. According to WebMD, most people have skin types that include: oily, dry, combination, or normal. Knowing your skin type allows you to figure out what your skin’s biggest issue is, whether it is the ability to keep from losing tons of dry skin, or getting rid of pimples and blackheads quickly. Different products will add or remove moisture, and so you want to make sure to choose a product that doesn’t exacerbate whatever issues your skin is prone to.

The kinds of moisturizers, serums, and lotions that will work best with your complexion will depend on your skin type to some extent. It will also depend on the individual products you try. If you are just starting out, try small or test sizes of a few different moisturizers and cleansers. Even better, visit your favorite beauty and skin care supply store and ask the specialists to recommend a few options after you tell them about your skin.

You may already know what your skin needs and have had a lot of success in keeping your skin healthy in the winter. It may be best to stock up on your favorite products and not change anything right before the wedding happens. If you have chronic winter skin issues, now is the time to turn over a new leaf and find the products that will work for you, while you have time to analyze their effectiveness.

All skin types benefit from being clean and moisturized, but the kind of cleanser or moisturizer that will work for you may not be effective for other people. One way to get an insight into the cleanser or moisturizer you are considering, is to look for reviews among beauty bloggers and see what skin types they recommend to use for particular products. You should consider the price you are willing to pay.

Choose to eat and drink in a healthy way. Protect your skin with the right outer gear. Choose nourishing products to keep your skin healthy. Doing these things will ensure that you are ready for the big day and your skin looks like it glows in all the pictures. All those wedding day smiles will be even more beautiful when you are confident in your beautiful skin.

Winter weddings provide the perfect opportunity to serve comforting seasonal foods in an elegant atmosphere. The cold air brings warm food to the table at most weddings. Winter wedding catering tends to lean towards a formal environment with touches of hot chocolate fun and even crazy creamy soups. Here is your guide to catering the perfect winter wedding.

Seasonal Favorites

Seasonal food is always popular during the winter months. Think of foods you’d have at a fancy holiday party and run with those ideas. It’s hard to think of anything else at the beginning of winter besides pumpkin spice and cinnamon. The end of the winter is usually busting with cranberries and pears in all sorts of menu items. Holiday parties with cranberry and brie appetizers and creamy eggnog leave guests feeling right at home. You can start guests off with a salad filled with glazed fruits, pears, and walnuts along with other seasonal favorites. A touch of bacon adds a savory taste of winter to any salad.

Potato Bar

The thought of a warm baked potato filled with all your favorite toppings screams cozy and comfy even in a classy wedding environment. Take this thought and turn it up a notch by providing all sorts of fun toppings for your guests. You can even go beyond just the idea of a baked potato bar and offer french fries or tater tots. One wedding trend on the rise is an actual mashed potato bar. Instead of only offering those fun toppings for baked potato lovers, offer those same toppings for mashed potatoes. Guests can fill their mashed potatoes with cheese, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and anything else that can be stuffed in a potato.

Soup and Salad

Soups are easy to cater, easy to eat, and easy to love. Winter weddings tend to serve the creamy soups that remind you of coming home from a long, cold day and melting into comforting flavors. Lobster and pumpkin soup in a bowl of creamy goodness fill you with love and warmth. Soup can be anything from a clear broth filled with chicken and vegetables to a soup stuffed with meat, potatoes, and veggies. As long as the soup warms your heart and tummy at the same time, it’s perfect. It’s popular to pair soups with a salad. Salad isn’t just a summer themed food. By serving it with matching winter vegetables to your soups, it’s instantly a winter wedding classic.

Pasta

Pasta is tricky because it’s got the reputation of being a heavy food weighing you down for the rest of the night. This is just a myth because you don’t have to go crazy eating all the pasta at the party. Pasta is perfect for winter weddings because it’s hearty and most people love it. You can add gourmet sauces to make the pasta seem more upscale. Pair your pasta with bread and salad for the perfect plate. A big wedding trend during the cocktail hour is to serve single pasta on a tiny fork. One seafood ravioli with a sprinkle of sauce or spaghetti intertwined around a meatball is great for a winter palate.

Market-Priced Meat

Market-priced food is a top wedding trend right now. Couples are spending a little more money to get a lot more happiness when it comes to the menu. Seafood like fish and lobster top the list during the winter. Winter game foods are a very popular choice as well. Guests can pile their plate high with foods like lobster mac n’ cheese, rosemary prime rib, or chicken marsala. You can pair these market-priced foods with less expensive comfort foods like hearty soups, seasonal vegetables, and mushrooms.

Bread

Bread comes in hundreds of different types so just saying “bread” doesn’t do it justice. Of course, this bread needs to be paired with a hearty meal, but topping off your meal with the perfect piece of bread is amazing at a winter wedding. It’s cold outside, but a roll topped with melting honey butter warms your entire body. Yeast rolls are the best accents to the main dish at a winter wedding. You can go wild and serve bread stuffed with pepperoni or cheese. Be careful not to basically serve your guests fancy pizza, but bread can transform into almost anything at the dinner table.

Chocolate Bar

What says winter more than hot chocolate? Of course, at a wedding the chocolate doesn’t have to be boring, you can add some alcohol to turn up the spice. Have a chocolate bar with all kinds of toppings. Set out sprinkles, peppermint sticks, whipped cream, and nuts to top off your hot chocolate. A shot of liqueur, Irish cream or even whiskey makes the hot chocolate even more fun. Serve this hot chocolate in a monogrammed sleeve to keep with the elegant feel of the night.

When you think of winter you certainly don’t think of flowers, so when it comes to a winter wedding flowers are a worrying issue. What flowers are even available? Of course there’s always the traditional décor like pine cones or string lights, but what if you want real flowers for your winter wedding? What are your options? Don’t settle at your winter wedding, check out this list of in-season flowers.

Poinsettia

This flower is a traditional holiday flower. You can see them for sale everywhere in December. While this flower is less traditional for weddings, if you’re going for a holiday look these aren’t a bad choice.

Roses

These are absolutely timeless and classic. They are the perfect winter wedding flower because they’re so versatile. Not only are they widely available, they come in tons of different shades. Large and beautiful, they add value to almost any arrangement.

Carnations

While not everybody’s favorite, these flowers are actually extremely useful and look lovely in an arrangement or bouquet.

Alstroemeria

Commonly called Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, these flowers feature small blooms and come in multiple shades. They are fun yet elegant flowers with adorable spotted markings.

Chrysanthemums

These flowers look great in bunches and come in a few beautiful shades. The best color for winter is probably their dark red variety which never disappoints.

Evergreens

Don’t forget about winter’s true flower: pine. Although evergreens are not technically a flower, their wonderfully deep green branches can certainly be used like one. Add a few evergreen sprigs to your bouquet to add flare or even use as a tablescape item.

Gerbera Daisy

You’ve probably seen these daisies around somewhere. They carry a fun almost cartoon-ish look that is perfect for happy occasions, making them perfect for your winter wedding.

Helleborus

Also known as the Christmas Rose, these flowers are dainty and come in a few different shades. There are even some varieties that are multicolored with a beautiful purple edge. These flowers look absolutely gorgeous when squished together. When they are placed this way they can be reminiscent of peonies. The perfect peony winter alternative.

Lily

The great news about winter weddings is that lilies are still available at this time so if you dreamed of a wedding with lilies, you’re in luck. Lilies come in a few different common varieties. There’s the stargazer that is typically available during the winter along with the Casablanca lily, an all white variety. These may be perfect for your winter wedding, especially the Casablanca, which give your décor a soft snowy look.

Orchids

Here’s one you may not have thought of. Orchids are typically seen in homes or fancy Japanese restaurants. Who knew they could also work for weddings? There are some really cool bouquet ideas that include this exotic flower that you’re going to want to check out. Orchids come in some unique colors as well that will help you pull off any look you’re going for.

Phlox

Phlox are another flower that are easy to acquire during the winter months. If you haven’t seen them before, their blooms are tiny and grow in bunches together. Their colors range from white to a bright fuchsia. The white could be perfect for a winter-themed wedding. If you’re going for a brighter look more reminiscent of spring or summer, you can always choose the purple or pink variety.

Calla Lily

Here’s one that almost everyone’s heard of. When you think of Calla lilies, do you think of spring? Well actually these wonderful blooms are readily available for your winter wedding. The perfect winter flower, these blooms are show stoppers with their curving bell shape and cream color.

Queen Anne’s Lace

Commonly mistaken for a weed, these wildflowers are a diamond in the rough where winter weddings are concerned. Think about it, these large white blooms that resemble lace are the crisp elegance you need for your wedding. Not only do these flowers add tremendously to the look of an arrangement, they also help to fill up any empty space making everything look more full and luscious.

Limonium (Statice)

Here’s another great filler flower. Limonium, also commonly called Statice, is a deep purple color that would go perfectly with white flowers. Limonium is often used in flowers shops. It is a hearty flower that holds up in a bouquet or other tight arrangement. Unlike the Gerbera Daisy, Limonium don’t require any support in an arrangement. They hold up and always look fabulous.

Some may be turned off from the idea of a winter wedding because the season itself is dark and barren. This doesn’t have to be the case for your winter wedding though! You can make your winter wedding décor however festive you like with these excitingly versatile blooms. With a little research you can easily find some of these flowers for sale near you. Talk to your local flower shop and arrange to look at their winter selections. Happy picking!

It is only natural to want to add some beautiful decor when planning a winter wedding the goal is often to make a space that is warm and cozy in the middle of a cold time, while also delighting your friends and family with a well-designed and attractive space. One easy-to-make and useful decoration are wax-dipped pine cones, which make people think of evergreens but also of trees covered in a thick blanket of snow.

These snow-capped beauties can be made into a wedding favor by labeling them as fire-starters; putting 3 or 4 of them into a fireplace with larger logs will help the fire get going just like other kindling. While it is strange to ask your guests to light their favors on fire, you’ll find that guests often appreciate a wedding favor with a simple, practical purpose after they brighten up your space for the duration of the wedding. The addition of a wick and wax makes them burn longer, giving your guests a better chance at a roaring fire on a future cold winter night.

Materials:

• A collection of pine cones. While you can usually buy these at a craft store, it makes more sense to find a pine tree with cones dropping and get some for free.

• A roll of candle wick, available at craft stores. While the candle wick isn’t essential to make the pine cones look good, it is helpful for the dipping process and makes it easier to use the pine cones as fire-starters after your event is over.

• A bag of soy wax flakes, unscented and uncolored. These are usually located in the candle-making section of a craft store.
• A medium size saucepan, preferably your least-favorite saucepan for cooking. While the soy flakes are usually food-grade, any accidental sticking of wax afterwards shouldn’t be on your best cooking pot.

Step 1 – Pre-Bake the Cones

To make certain that no bugs are alive on the pine cones, bake them in an oven at 200 degrees. This will also remove moisture, which can affect how the wax stays on the pine cones.

Step 2 – Liquefy the Wax

Melt soy wax according to specifications on the box. Line a nearby area with enough wax paper for all of your pine cones to sit without touching.

Step 3 – Wrap Wick Around Cones

When pine cones have cooled sufficiently, wrap a length of candle wick around the spines of the pine cones. You should be able to hold the end of the wick without it falling out of the pine cone, so snuggle that wick right into the interior of the pine cone.

Step 4 – Take Cones for a Dip

With each pine cone, gently dip into the melted wax and place to dry on the waxed paper. By the time all cones have been dipped, you should notice that the first cones have gone from wet-looking to more solid; at this point, re-dip the cones.

Step 5 – Repeat Dips Till Snowy

Work up to at least 4 coats; some cones will look better when coated even more times. The white soy flakes will make a cone that looks like a snow-covered pine tree.

Step 6 – Cool till Dry

After final layer, allow cones to dry completely for a few hours. The wax may remain soft and malleable, depending on the temperature at which they are stored, so try to keep them in the coolest, driest place possible to reduce how much wax flakes off over time. For best results, create pine cone decor within 2-3 weeks before the wedding, since earlier than that and a lot of transit may cause many crumbles of wax and pine cone pieces.

Step 7 – Label and Message

An optional extra touch that we liked was to add a little note in case guests don’t know they can take the wax-dipped pine cones home and use them as fire-starters. A simple note that says “Wax Pine Cone Fire Starter – Thank you for Warming our Hearts!” will make your guests smile and also make it clear what they can do with the favor. We used a simple bit of twine to connect the note to the wick itself.

There are also ways to add scent and color to these pine cones, but for a simple, wintry look that dresses up any winter-wedding venue, go for the simple “snow-capped” style. For extra credit, find some pretty jars and pour the leftover wax into candles. Add the wick as the wax begins to harden so that it will stand up on its own. If you choose a cute enough jar or container for your candles, these can also be decorations, or small gifts for people who are helping out with your wedding!

The holidays can create a beautiful backdrop for a winter wonderland wedding. Crystal clear lights and glistening snow can orchestrate a perfect day. Sustaining a beauty routine during the winter months can be more difficult though, especially in the middle of planning a wedding.

A drop in temperatures can dry out hair and strip skin of its natural moisture. Here are a few quick tips to stay wedding-ready even in frigid weather.

Drink Water

A pre-wedding beauty routine should always include staying hydrated and drinking lots of water. During the winter, a body is more prone to dehydration. Be mindful of your daily water intake and continue eating fruit and veggies high in water content.

Hydrating Mist

Slip a small hydrating mist bottle in a bag or purse before heading out the door. The refreshing spray will give a dry face an instant lift. As a bonus, it’s also perfect for a quick hair mist to defuse static.

Cuticle Pen

Dry cuticles can become cracked and painful. An easy fix between manicures is a cuticle pen that brushes on oil to smooth and nourish nail beds. A cuticle pen is also a Kim Kardashian beauty secret, who’s given props to SpaRitual’s cuticle pen.

Laser Treatment

As you prepare for the honeymoon, you may be considering laser hair removal. This process uses highly concentrated energy to terminate hair follicles.

According to spa experts, it’s easier to begin laser sessions in the winter. The treated person is required to stay out of the sun for 4-5 days after the service. Tanning, sunbathing, and increased sun exposure is not recommended.

Hand Salve

Dry hands will rejoice with a quick application of hand salve. This ointment is typically a cream or balm and therefore more long-lasting than regular lotion. A few over-the-counter favorites are Burt’s Bees Hand Salve and Udderly Smooth Moisturizing Cream.

Gloves

Protecting your hands, feet, and face from the winter elements is a no-brainer. But now, with an engagement ring, your hands have company. Ring prongs can get caught on the glove lining, thick yarn, or feel uncomfortable. Fleece gloves are a good option, or you may want to consider investing in a quality leather pair that doesn’t put undue pressure on the ring. Also, remember to be mindful as you take gloves off and have your ring sized and regularly checked for loose stones.

Static Release

Static and winter go together like peanut butter and jelly. With no humidity, the dry winter air can increase the electrons stored in the hair. Pulling a sweater over your head or taking off a scarf and hat will create a perfect opportunity for static. Lotion is an easy and quick trick that can help combat static anywhere. Simply rub excess hand lotion through your hair or under clothes. A travel-size Static Guard spray is perfect for a wedding day emergency kit or packed in a honeymoon suitcase.

Humidifier

As the indoor thermostat switches to heat, the moisture in the air evaporates. As a result, skin begins to dehydrate. A humidifier will increase humidity and help restore lost moisture. Sleep next to it for supple morning skin from head to toe. As a bonus, humidifiers can also help clear sinuses and colds.

Lukewarm Showers

A steamy, hot shower sounds ideal on a snowy, winter day. However, it’s better to shower with lukewarm water during the winter season. WebMD defines lukewarm as between 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, go one step farther and moisturize the skin immediately after a shower, which will help lock in moisture.

Sunscreen

Yes, even though the weather is cold and sun is a rarity, dermatologist still recommend applying sunscreen. Harmful rays are active even in the winter, especially in colder areas where they can reflect off of the white snow.

Lip Cream

There are a variety of services and products to prevent chapped lips and increase natural moisture. Specialized creams and collagen sheets can be found in most spas or beauty stores. These products provide targeted hydration and softening for the lips – an essential for the wedding day! Don’t forgo the sunblock here either. Opt for a daily lip balm with sunscreen.

Many of these simple items can be purchased at any local drug or superstore. Using these quick tips to prep for cold weather can ease some beauty stress as the wedding approaches.

You’re thinking about wedding dates and you’re not sure which to choose, but you know you won’t want a winter wedding. Winter weddings are awful, right? Maybe not. There are some benefits that you may not have considered. Those who’ve had winter weddings can tell you just how amazing they can be. Every season has its ups and downs, yes even summer weddings can have downfalls. But we’re not here to talk about summer. Let’s look at all the pros and cons of having a winter wedding so you can see whether it’s worth having one.

Stuck Indoors

As you know, winter weather is not typically conducive to having the wedding outside. Not unless you want your guests to freeze to the ground that is. This is one of winter wedding’s major caveats. That outdoor ceremony you’ve been dreaming of just can’t happen easily in the winter. Is it really so bad being indoors the whole time? Not necessarily, but it can feel a bit claustrophobic. It’s hard to do everything inside during the winter, you start to feel a little stir crazy. Guests may feel this way too. Those who want fresh air or guests who smoke, they will have to brave the weather to do so. Those who don’t feel braving the cold is worth it, may just have to stick it out indoors.

Anniversary Holi-Date

Don’t forget, your wedding date will be your anniversary for years to come. If you have a winter wedding, especially anywhere near December, it’s likely that you’re going to run into holiday conflicts. Forget plans with you family, think about everyone else’s plans. When it’s not your family distracting from your anniversary with their holiday performances and get togethers, it’s other people’s plans getting in the way of any travel you want to do. Let’s say you want to go to Hawaii for a vacation since it’s your anniversary, but the airports are absolutely atrocious. With a winter wedding anywhere near the holidays, you do risk these types of issues.

Sticky Travel Situation

The problem with winter is the weather. Especially if you live anywhere north, you know how terrible the snow storms can get. When you’re planning your date a year ahead, it’s impossible to know whether you’ll get a flurry or a full-on cataclysm. Those guests that are traveling, from even an hour away could be snowed in. Not to mention your musicians, if you have any, and any vendors like catering and photographers.

Cha-ching

Having a winter wedding is like money in your pocket. Yes, winter weddings have their flaws, but doesn’t every season? What are a few challenges compared to the stress and money you save? A lot of venues offer a discounted price for winter weddings simply because it’s not a popular time of the year. Other vendors do the same. Look around, you’ll find someone who’s offering a discounted rate. What an easy way to save on almost every aspect of your wedding. You know you’ll have a wonderful time and now you won’t have to eat instant noodles for the rest of the season.

A Unique Date

Winter weddings are less popular than other seasons. We know this. What you may not be thinking of are the benefits of that fact. Yes winter weddings aren’t popular. That means your winter wedding will be unique. When your winter wedding stands alone it also means you don’t have to share your date with many other people. Let everyone else in your circle fight over July. You’re having a January wedding and all the focus will be on you.

It’s Pretty

There are benefits to even snow and cold. Snow is hard to travel in yes, but it’s also beautiful. A crisp winter night, there’s nothing better. You can use the weather to help with the aesthetic. Can you imagine having carriage rides through the snow at your wedding? What a beautiful wedding element. While it’s not guaranteed to snow, if you’re in a snowy area, it’s very possible. You are taking a gamble just like a summer wedding gambles on fine weather. If it does snow though, there’s no better setting for your perfect winter nuptials.

Winter is a tough time for a lot of people. It’s when the weather is the coldest and the nights are longest. People get antsy sitting in their homes all the time, scraping off their cars, burying themselves in coats. It’s also a beautiful time full of magic and wonder. Some of it depends on how you look at it. It’s up to you whether a winter wedding sounds fantastical or fantasti-crap. Either way, by hosting a winter wedding, you’re offering a break from the humdrum of winter. All those winter nights doing puzzles can be broken up by your fancy fiesta. You’ll never see people more joyous than at a winter wedding. You also may not see the people there because they all got stuck in snow. It’s a give and take. Make your choice wisely and get ready for the chill!

‘Tis the season for a beautiful, crisp, stunning, cozy winter wedding! If you’re having a winter wedding, which trend are you most excited about incorporating in your big day? Have you considered exploring any of these ideas?

Winter Color Palettes

One of the most lovely things about winter weddings are the gorgeous, deep, color schemes. Looking for a pop of color, but don’t want to go too bright with your winter theme? A delightful, rich burgundy will look amazing for both your bridesmaids and your decor! Or want something a little deeper? Try a gorgeous, classic navy. A universally flattering color, navy is the perfect choice to add to your color scheme—especially since it’s technically a neutral, but it has enough pizazz to add some beautiful visual interest wherever you decide to use it. Or if you’d like to go for a more ethereal, soft look, a beautiful gray tone will be a stunning complement to the surrounding winter decor.

Bright String or Christmas Lights

Although string and Christmas lighting has been a wedding trend for a little while, nothing beats a string of delicate lights in the wintertime. The exposed bulbs against a snowy background or in front of a roaring fireplace just exude cozy, winter spirit! A neat new take on this trend is to incorporate a variety of sizes or even hues of string lighting to your decor. Combining tiny little string lights in some areas with larger, more robust bulbs in others will give your lighting some fun and variety while keeping a consistent vibe to the look.

Cozy Blankets, Shawls, or Stoles

If your winter ceremony is going to take place outside, offering cozy blankets for the guests to snuggle up in while they await your arrival is an adorable touch. Even with an indoor ceremony, it’s fun to include blankets in some way—perhaps fleece blankets tied up with pretty twine would make a great favor for everyone! And as far as your wedding party, you absolutely can’t go wrong by putting your bridesmaids in shawls or stoles to go with their gorgeous dresses. I was in a wedding recently where the bride actually knit individual, personalized shawls for every bridesmaid! Not only did it fulfill the practical purpose of keeping us warm during the ceremony, but they looked stunning and—most importantly, I think—they will be an absolutely treasured gift for years to come. Consider including a piece like this for your wedding party if you’re interested and able, it certainly will not be forgotten and will look gorgeous, too!

Birch or Other Natural Wood Decor

There’s something so picturesque and lovely about the natural wood look, particularly when it goes along with a winter-themed decor. If you’re able to get some, birch wood in particular looks stunning amid the rich tones of a classic winter wedding. But truly, any natural wood will play well with winter decor. Consider using discs of wood under centerpieces, as the base of a cake stand, or even small pieces of wood to serve as seating signs or favor tags for your guests. One thing that’s especially good about utilizing this natural look is it is an understated and simple way to add some elegance and beauty to your surroundings.

Hot Cocoa Bar

Who doesn’t have memories of coming inside from a freezing cold winter day and being surprised by a delicious, hot cup of cocoa? Hot chocolate is one of the most beloved traditions of wintertime and your wedding is the perfect place to remind everyone of this childhood delight! Consider creating a whole bar around the deliciousness—with cups and bowls filled with treats to add to your cups! You could go in so many directions with this: additional chocolatey goodness with different types of chocolate chips or syrups, marshmallow sweetness with different shapes, sizes, and even flavors of marshmallows, or add an especially exciting surprise by putting out containers of cinnamon sticks, candy canes, or other candies to try! For an extra classy touch, include shakers full of powdered sugar or cinnamon to sprinkle on top once everyone’s creation is finished!

If a hot chocolate bar just seems a little too sweet for your taste, you could swap it out with a coffee, tea, or any other hot beverage bar! The key here is providing a hot drink and a fun way for your guests to create their own favorite warm cup of happiness to keep out the cold!

As you can see, winter weddings are all about classic, gorgeous colors and decor, paired with cozy food, drinks, and ways to keep warm in the chilly air! These seasonal weddings have an elegance and class of their own, and these trends are no exception. Did you have a winter wedding? Or are you planning on having one? Do you have a favorite (or least favorite!) winter wedding trend? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

Summer and fall weddings may be the most popular seasons for couples tying the knot, but there’s just something romantic about a winter wedding—maybe it’s the blanket of white snow in the background or the fact that you have to snuggle up close to get warm. Sure, you may need an extra layer or two in the winter, but there’s nothing more gorgeous than a white dress against a winter white backdrop or a photo of the two of you cuddling underneath a blanket in your wedding attire.

If you’re searching for the perfect spot to have your winter wonderland wedding, here are a few places to keep in mind for the snowglobe-like wedding of your dreams.

Warren, VT

There’s probably not a place more picturesque than Warren, Vermont. A small town with a major ski resort (Sugarbush), Warren tends to look more like a movie set than a real city. A wedding in Warren guarantees charming views of the Green Mountains and a bunch of gorgeous snow in the winter, with an average of about 112 inches each year.

Because Warren is the epitome of a winter wonderland, it’s got several choices of wedding venues, including the Sugarbush Resort where you can take your wedding pictures on a chair lift and dance the night away in one of their luxurious cabin-style event spaces. Another lovely option would be The Inn at the Round Barn, which is located right in the Green Mountains and provides an idyllic, farm-style setting to say “I do.”

Park City, UT

Park City, Utah is home to several ski resorts, and was the home of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and has plenty of beautiful views of the Wasatch mountains. Not only are the views amazing, but the amenities that Park City has make it the perfect winter wedding destination for a long weekend. You and your guests will never run out of things to do from skiing at the Park City Mountain resort to taking a hot air balloon over the city to shopping on historic Main street.

The wedding venues in Park City are as stunning as the surrounding scenery, and especially at the Empire Canyon Lodge in Deer Valley, which is located at the base of the chutes and offers sweeping views of the mountains. The venue itself is rustic and cabin-like, but with modern slate and granite fixtures, cedar walls and vaulted ceilings.

South Lake Tahoe, CA

If you’re looking for unbelievable winter wedding photos, South Lake Tahoe, California is your safest bet. In addition to the average 143 inches of snow per year, the lake itself is crystal blue and serene, making for a spectacular winter wedding background. Although Lake Tahoe feels remote, about three million people visit each year for the skiing, lakefront activities, and the beautiful scenery, so it’s safe to say you’ll have all the amenities you need.

South Lake Tahoe wedding venues all definitely have that wow factor, but Heavenly Mountain Resort is easily one of the most breathtaking spots to get married in the country. With the option of two mountain-top ceremony spaces, your wedding will not only have views of the mountains, but also Lake Tahoe below.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park may be one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets. Located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is comprised of over 30,000 acres of rolling hills, waterfalls, and stunning river views. Although Cuyahoga is amazing in the autumn with magnificent views of the changing foliage, winter in this national park is sure to not disappoint with lake-effect snow from nearby Lake Erie.

If you wish for your wedding ceremony to be inside the park, you’ll need to secure a special-use permit and work with the National Parks Service to arrange for vendors and seating. You could also opt to have your ceremony and reception at the Happy Days Lodge, which is run by the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A former youth camp, this rustic lodge has views of the nearby meadow and hiking trails, which would be the perfect backdrop for a quiet winter wedding.

Taos, New Mexico

Home of the famous Angel Fire ski resort, Taos is a mountain gem in northern New Mexico. Although it’s known for its many ski resorts, Taos is also a city filled with art, culture, shopping, and food, which would make it a perfect destination wedding for you and your family and friends. Whether it’s the remarkable architecture of the adobe haciendas or the views of the Sangro de Cristo Mountains, you can be sure there won’t be a bad seat in the house if you choose Taos for your winter wedding destination.

For a truly scenic and snowy wedding, choose the Taos Ski Valley resort, which offers magnificent views of the mountains and a rustic alpine atmosphere at The Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant for your ceremony and reception. Frolic out in the snow by the resort or hit the slopes after you say your vows.