Winter weddings are special in their own way. A barn in the middle of a winter wonderland is something special. By mixing rustic elegance with the warm, cozy feel of winter, you can create a magical and memorable setting.
First let's talk about what winter is really like the clear air the peaceful blanket of snow and the warm feeling that seems to surround everything. When planning a winter barn wedding you should think about these things.
The first step is to choose a color scheme. Think of soft whites icy blues and silvers along with deep greens and the warm tones of real wood. These colors not only go well with the natural beauty of winter but they also make the barn look classy which goes well with its rustic charm.
Use textures like faux fur throws woolen table runners and lace details to add warmth and depth. The lighting is also very important. Guests will love the soft warm lights that are hung from wooden beams or put in mason jars. They make the room look magical. You could add some lanterns or candles to the space to make it feel cozier.
It might seem like winter is hard on flowers but it's really just about choosing the right ones. Many flowers and plants do well and look great in the winter. Amaryllis anemones hellebores and evergreens like pine and fir are all good examples. These can be used to make beautiful centerpieces and bouquets that add class without taking away from the barn's natural beauty.
Adding berries or pinecones to arrangements can change the way they look and add color. These things make the indoor wedding space look more like the outside world which is cold and natural.
You can use garlands of greenery to dress up beams make backdrops for photos or even make beautiful displays that hang down. Don't be afraid to use these things in new and interesting ways. The Royal Horticultural Society has a great guide to seasonal blooms if you want to learn more about winter flowers.
One way to make sure your guests remember your winter wedding is to make them feel at home and welcome. Putting different textures on top of each other can make things feel more comfortable. You could hang soft fabric drapes on the walls or even set up a lounge area with comfy chairs and warm blankets for guests to use during cocktail hour.
The wood beams and big rooms of a barn naturally welcome the warm textures of winter. Your guests will remember the event better if you add personal touches like a hot chocolate station or a spiced cider bar. This tastes good in the winter and keeps you warm when it's cold outside.
If you want your guests to be able to enjoy the beautiful barn surroundings even after the sun goes down think about adding outdoor heaters or fire pits. Visit Better Homes & Gardens for more suggestions on how to make your home feel warm and inviting. They can help you decorate your home for events as well as everyday life.
Winter weddings are better for clothes because they let you wear rich textures and cover ups that would be too hot in the summer. You might want to think about getting satin or velvet bridesmaid dresses. They look nice and keep you warm.
Sleeved gowns are a great choice for winter weddings because they look good and are comfortable for the bride. Capes or fake fur stoles can make you look more dramatic and keep you warm. The groom and his groomsmen can also wear suits made of heavier fabrics like wool or tweed.
Shoes should look good and be useful. Pick boots or shoes with closed toes if you need to walk on paths that might be icy. Don't forget about accessories they can keep you warm and make a statement at the same time. Scarves mittens and hats not only keep you warm but they can also be color coordinated to make pictures taken outside look better. If you need help deciding what to wear to a wedding What to Wear in London During Winter – Heat Holders® has professional advice on how to dress for different seasons.
Lastly remember how well photography can capture the mood of a winter barn wedding. The light in winter is different the soft diffused light can make very romantic pictures. "Golden hour" is the time just after sunrise or just before sunset when the light shines beautifully on snow. Work with your photographer to make the most of this time.
Tell your photographer that you want to show off how beautiful the barn is and how close your event is to it. Pay attention to the rustic beams the snow and the little things you worked hard to add to make the day special.
Pick pictures that were taken both inside and outside. It may be cold but there are great photo ops in a winter wonderland. Check to see that your photographer can take pictures in any kind of weather. For more tips on how to take the best wedding photos in different situations visit National Geographic's Photography Tips.
You're well on your way to planning a winter wedding at a barn that will be more than just a day to remember if you think about these things. It will be a memory you will cherish for the rest of your life. Remember that every part adds to the overall feeling of warmth elegance and happiness which makes your day truly unique and special.