Living in the Chicago-land area, most of us dread the winter season. It alludes to darkness, clouds, arctic-like temperatures, snow, slush, and indoor hibernation. HOWEVER, what most may not realize, is that the winter season can be one of the most magical times for a wedding (if you plan accordingly).
Let’s talk about photography. Natural light photography when there is snow on the ground gives the perfect light reflection. From a planners stand point it’s important to plan the wedding photos/formals early enough in the day (a few hours before sunset). This then can mean that an early ceremony time is IDEAL if you can adjust it that way. It also means you can likely start the reception a bit earlier as well since the sun typically sets by 4:30 or 5:00. Why not have the cocktail hour begin then with the formal reception at 6:00? Working with these times will result in some beyond beautiful natural light photos. If you can brave the cold for a bit, I HIGHLY suggest getting a few outside.
Now let’s address booking vendors. As a wedding planner I can tell you that I book up (along with basically every other vendor in this industry) about a year in advance for summer/fall weddings. When I hear a client is particularly interested in having a winter wedding/Christmas wedding I get excited because I know that’s “slow season” and therefore most of the vendors I enjoy working with are likely available as well. I’ve mentioned before that it’s important to have an “A”, “B”, and “C” wishlist when booking both the venues you look at as well as your wedding vendors. Having a winter wedding puts you in a good position to book a lot of your first choice options. OOOOLALA!
Last but not least, having a winter wedding can sometimes mean you'll have a higher turn out of guest attendance. Summer and fall weddings are so popular in the Chicago-land area that guests often have to choose which wedding they'll be attending if two happen to fall on the same date. Having a winter wedding (as long as it's not Christmas weekend) often results in more of your loved ones there to share your magical night with you.
If you're newly engaged and dabbling around the idea of booking your big day over the winter months feel free to reach out to me and I'd be happy to go over what that could entail with an initial consultation.
xx,
kell
So chic winter wedding inspirations! All these photos are so impressive. Gratitude for sharing the pictures here. At one of domestic New York wedding venues I just tied the knot and want to have winter wonderland themed ceremony. Hoping to find easy DIY ideas soon!!
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