Winter Weddings...
It's nearing my favourite time of year for weddings! Winter weddings offer several unique advantages, making them a great choice for many couples.
One of my favourite ever weddings was the wedding of Adele & Graeme. Their venue, Slindon House, nr The South Downs National Park was the perfect venue with views across the countyside.
Unique Aesthetic...
Winter weddings offer a unique aesthetic. Rich seasonal colors like deep red (Adele's bouquet & bridesmaids dresses) and emerald greens (table runner & Graeme's suit) can make for stunning photos. Couples can also incorporate seasonal elements such as Christmas trees, pinecones, snowflakes, or winter florals.
Availability...
Winter is typically the off-peak season for weddings, so there’s more availability for popular venues and vendors. This flexibility can make it easier to book your preferred location and photographer.
Adele & Graeme fully embracing the season - the 12 ft(ish) Christmas tree really set off the room.
The new Mr & Mrs taking their first steps as man & wife!
The weather...
Unlike summer, when unexpected rain can disrupt outdoor weddings, winter weather is more predictable. Planning an indoor winter wedding can eliminate stress about potential rain.
Adele & Graeme had one of the clearest most beautiful of sunny winter days.
The outdoor space at Slindon House became the perfect setting for all the wedding reception staples. The confetti shots, drinks reception, main group & smaller group photographs.
Festive vibes...
Guests are often already in a celebratory mood around the holiday season. Adele & Graeme served mulled wine at their drinks reception.
The weather really was perfect for Adele & Graeme. As the sun was getting low we opted to have Slindon House in the background of Adele & Graeme's group photographs with family & friends.
Winter sunset couple shots...
Winter sunset wedding photographs can be breathtakingly beautiful, capturing the soft, warm glow of the setting sun against the cool winter landscape.
Golden hour light...
Winter sunsets often create a stunning contrast of warm, golden hues against the cool, crisp whites of snow or frost. The light can add a soft, romantic glow to your photos, making them feel intimate and dreamy.
The sun sets earlier in the winter, giving you the chance to take advantage of the "golden hour" lighting, which creates flattering, soft shadows and a warm atmosphere. It’s an ideal time for couple portraits or outdoor shots.
Silhouette shots...
In my 10 years of being a wedding photographer, I have never had better light to take advantage of... the below image is one of my all time favourite shots!
Take advantage of the setting sun to capture silhouette shots of you and your partner against the glowing sky. These can be especially striking with the contrast between the dark figures and the soft sunset colors.
Festive Decor...
Adele & Graeme had the perfect wedding breakfast room decor... including Christmas crackers for their guests!
Warm intimate space, a romantic atmosphere...
Whether in a lodge, a ballroom, or a candlelit chapel, indoor winter weddings bring people together in a warm and inviting space.
Winter naturally brings a cozy, magical ambiance. With candlelight, twinkling lights, and winter-themed decor, the season creates a warm and intimate environment for a wedding.
Festive cheer...
Christmas crackers, party hats, candles and the drink was definately flowing at Adele & Graeme's wedding breakfast.
Guest availability...
Winter tends to have fewer competing weddings, holidays, or events, so your guests may be more likely to attend. They may also appreciate a fun event during the typically quiet months after the summer.
Adele & Graeme were joined by all of their family & friends to listen to the speeches.
It was a really cozy atmosphere in the wedding breakfast room.
First dance... a magical & romantic moment...
A winter wedding first dance can be a magical and romantic moment, enhanced by the season's cozy and elegant atmosphere.
Spotlight...
At Adele & Graeme's wedding I used a soft spotlight to highlight Adele & Graeme on the dance floor, with the rest of the room dimmed. This gives the moment an elegant, cinematic feel. Adele's dress literally twinkled!
Baby, it's cold outside...
At a winter wedding in the evening, you are less likely to 'loose' some of your guests - people are more likely to stay indoors in the warm, instead of taking five outside! It's too cold!!
In the packed reception room, Adele & Graeme really went for it on the dancefloor!
Can we just have a moment of appreciation for Adele's stunning wedding dress here...
Adele & Graeme hired a live band for the entertainment - literally EVERYONE joined them on the dancefloor!
Just before I left Adele & Graeme to party the night away, I asked them to join me outside where I had set up my off camera flashes. Lighting up the couple and Slindon House, my last photograph of the day at a very beautiful Winter wedding.
Winter weddings are a special choice, offering a unique combination of seasonal charm, intimacy, and elegance.
I think Adele & Graeme nailed it!