Picking the Right Barn Venue

The right place for your wedding sets the mood. New Hampshire has a lot of different kinds of barns that mix old fashioned charm with modern comforts. Think of places like The Barn at Merry Hill Farm. With its beautiful views and old fashioned feel this place captures the spirit of New Hampshire's countryside.

When you pick a barn think about how big it is and what it can do. Winter can be full of surprises so your venue should be able to host both indoor and outdoor events. Look for barns that have ways to keep guests warm and comfortable. Also ask about things like bridal suites kitchens and bathrooms to make sure they are easy to get to.

The place where it is is also very important. You want a place that is easy to get to but still feels like a secret winter wonderland. If your guests can stay on site or close by their stay will be better especially in the winter. Spend a weekend checking out possible venues the time you spend will help you create the wedding atmosphere you want.

Using themes for seasonal decorations

Winter and comfort go together and your decorations should show that. You can make barn venues look more rustic and classy at the same time. Think about colors that are warm and textures that are natural. Soft lighting like fairy lights and candles can make the inside of a barn look magical.

Make focal points with things that are in season. Pinecones evergreen branches and decorations with snow themes are a quiet way to show that it's winter without making the room too busy. Adding plaid blankets and thick velvet fabrics can make seating areas warmer and more fun to look at. A roaring fireplace can literally and figuratively warm your guests if you have one.

It's also very important how you arrange your flowers. Amaryllis and camellias are two flowers that do well in the cold. They are great for winter weddings. Use seasonal plants and berries to add some color. In the winter the most important thing is to make your barn feel warm and welcoming. It should feel both comfortable and full of life.

Getting used to the logistics of a winter wedding

For winter weddings there are some special logistical problems to think about. Of course the weather is the most important thing. New Hampshire winters are lovely but they can also be hard to predict. Ask the place where your event is how they get rid of snow and how easy it is to get there. If snow blocks the main roads give your guests other ways to get around. You might also want to think about providing shuttles from hotels to make it easier for people to get around.

The time of day is also very important. You might want to have your ceremony earlier in the day because the days are shorter in the winter. This time of year is also great for taking pictures of sunsets with snowy backgrounds.

The most important thing is that your guests are comfortable. During the outdoor parts of the ceremony rent heaters or give out warm blankets. You could even set up a "hot chocolate bar" with marshmallows and cinnamon sticks to make it more fun. It will be fun for kids and adults.

Putting together a menu with love

This is especially true at a winter wedding the way to someone's heart is through their stomach. Think about foods that are rich warm and comforting for the body and soul. There are a lot of different foods in New England like clam chowder pot roast and roasted root vegetables.

Talk to your caterer about making a menu that uses fresh local foods. Serve filling appetizers and choose a family style dinner to make everyone feel like they belong and are close to you. The drinks are just as important. During the winter you can drink warm ciders spiced wines and special cocktails that will make you think of the magic of New Hampshire.

Instead of just one wedding cake why not have a lot of different desserts? Pies warm bread puddings or chocolate fondue are all great ways to make someone feel welcome and spoiled. It's not just about feeding your guests it's also about making them feel welcome and giving them a sensory experience that fits with your winter wonderland theme.

Capturing the Magic in Pictures

The winter scenery in New Hampshire is always a great place to take pictures. But there are problems with taking pictures in the winter. There aren't many hours of daylight so it's important to use the light you have well. You can get help planning a session that captures the magic of the season from experienced photographers like Aurora Photography.

Be ready for problems that might happen like the cold making the battery last less long or the snow changing how light looks. Candid shots are where the real emotional magic happens. Take pictures of your guests laughing how the snowflakes sparkle against the barn or how close a simple look or touch can be.

Your photography package should include both planned and unplanned shots. Tell your photographer to take pictures from a few different angles. The barn's loft is a great place to do this and pictures taken from the ground can use falling snow to frame a moment in time.

Your winter wedding is all about warmth and connections in the cold. This spirit should be present in everything you do from where you hold the event to what you serve. Enjoy the unique charm and closeness that the season brings. For generations people have celebrated many winters in New Hampshire and each one is unique and memorable.