Taylor Swift summed up the charm of winter in her words: "I love the scents of winter! For me, it's all about the feeling you get when you smell pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread and spruce."

Winter offers rich sensory experiences, which is why it’s becoming a popular season for brides and grooms — and with good reason. There’s something about winter that brings people together in intimate settings and allows for the most romantic of occasions. Hosting a winter wedding is a great idea and we’ve listed some ideas for a memorable winter wedding that will leave your guests with goose bumps — for all the right reasons!
 

Venue

Your first consideration is the venue for your ceremony and reception. Most wedding venues in the Western Cape (and South Africa) are multifunctional venues with indoor and outdoor facilities. You might like to consider those with romantic stone chapels or wine cellars, for a particularly atmospheric setting for your winter wedding ceremony.

Choose an equally cosy venue for your reception. We’re thinking of candlelight, firelight, and ambient lighting reflected in crystal glassware and wrapping your guests in throws to create a romantic and intimate affair.  And if you choose to celebrate your wedding in the winelands, you’ll have the bonus of the vineyards, which turn from green to burnt orange and deep merlot. Picture the rich colour palette you could choose for your décor and wedding theme.

Décor & Design

Another lovely idea for a winter wedding revolves around an all-white theme for décor and flowers; a White Winter look and feel with accents drawn from a rich spectrum of burgundy, plum and gold. 

Food and Beverage

Winter is also the time for comfort food; rich and hearty food your guests can tuck into. Think of warm cheese appetizers, soup shooters and creative food bars. And you can warm your guests at a cocktail bar serving port and sherry from cut glass decanters. Swap champagne for mulled wine (glühwein), flavoured with cinnamon bark and cloves. Or serve hot chocolate and coffee from a coffee station or barista.

 

Wedding Dress and Dress Code

Many brides avoid the winter season because they worry that the cooler weather will limit what they can wear. But there are many exquisite styles and fabrics you can choose for a sumptuous winter bridal gown. Think ivory, cream or old gold in luxe fabrics such as lustrous velvet and brocade, antique lace or heavy satin. If you're considering a ball gown, winter is the perfect time for full skirts. If you’re set on wearing lace, opt for a heavier variety like Battenberg lace. Pick up jewel colours such as garnet and ruby, carnelian and rose gold in your accessories or bouquet. Or wrap up in a faux fur or opulent cashmere stole for a look that exudes warmth and elegance.

Another reason to consider a winter wedding is the availability and cost of services and facilities. Many wedding service providers offer attractive rates during the winter season. Venue hire, accommodation rates, photography packages and décor hire usually cost less than in the summer ‘busy season’ months.  
Indian author Anamika Mishra wrote: "Winter is not a season, it's a celebration." We couldn’t agree more!

Shelley at Where's My Wedding