Tag: winter wedding

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The truth behind 10 winter wedding myths

Winter weddings are growing in popularity, with more and more brides opting for this romantic wedding season. I think these women are really clever, to make the most of this unusual choice to create fond memories.

Planning a wedding in winter shouldn’t be too difficult, if you actually consider it. There are several misconceptions associated with a winter wedding, and this is why many brides don’t even think of the idea.

Let us take a look at some of the most common winter wedding myths that you will most likely hear, if you announce you will be getting married during the coldest time of year. Don’t worry, for we are here to give you the actual facts and tell you if it is indeed something you need to worry about, or just another thing that you let it in one ear and out the other!

1.You cannot choose any wedding dress you want

If you think you should cover yourself up in a full-length, full-sleeve, turtle-neck wedding dress, to keep the cold at bay, you are mistaken. Don’t think too much about the strapless or backless gown that you simply love, just go for it!

The cold is a given factor whether you wear a full-sleeve gown or a sleeveless one. Take a cue from our designer collections for winter and fall. I’m sure you won’t find more than a handful of full-sleeve dresses there. This is because brides love and do wear dresses that expose the neck, shoulders, back and arm. Since you will most likely be having an indoor ceremony in a heated area, you won’t feel cold. And for those valuable outdoor photo moments that you cannot miss, this is the time to add style to your ensemble with a luxurious wrap, stole or jacket. You can view our fantastic collection here.

Shine brighter than any snowflake at your snow-kissed winter wedding with this beautiful Sophia Tolli Mon Cheri wedding gown. The sweetheart neckline adds a touch of romantic to an already ravishing wedding dress design. Check more details about this dress by visiting this link here.

2.Winter weddings are cheaper

Your wedding expenses depend entirely on the type of wedding you have, the number of guests attending and what you choose to have at your wedding. Winter is the off-peak season where weddings are concerned. So, you may be able to get a better rate if you negotiate, or snag a discount that a vendor advertise. You also have a better chance of finding such discounts this time of year, as vendors are more likely to search for clients, and not the reverse. Nevertheless, your wedding expenses will depend on how you plan your wedding. If you go with seasonal fare, choose flowers that are available, and search for the best discounts and deals, you will be able to pull off your wedding on a smaller budget. However, if your wedding menu will have items that are not easily available this time of year, or you want floral décor and bouquets with spring or summer flowers, be prepared to shell out extra.

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3.You have limited options in bridesmaids dresses

Just like with wedding dresses, you may quickly assume that your bridesmaids will need full-length dresses that cover the neck and arms. Well, you don’t! The same rules that apply to you, go for your bridesmaids too. Feel free to choose short, sexy dresses, as long as your wedding is in a well-heated venue. They can always accessorize with a warm jacket, wraps or stoles if they have to spend time in the cold outdoors. Additionally, short dresses give them the chance to look stunning and stylish. Enter snow boots or knee-high boots and a cozy Pashmina shawl, and show me one girl who isn’t excited to wear the short dress that you choose for her.

Don’t you think this 8108S from the Alfred Angelo Bridesmaids collection is a delightful dress that your bridesmaids will love to wear? This cocktail length gown with a stunning sheer halter neckline features necklace beading and ends just above the knee. Not only does it look smart and glamorous, it is also a practical choice that your girls will think of reusing after the wedding. Check this bridesmaid dress out at this link to our collection.

4.An outdoor wedding is off-the-cards

Why should you limit yourself to the indoors when there is so much beauty in the landscape outdoors? We say, plan your event outdoors, and live your dream. It will be a memorable and unique event, when you do. All it takes is a little practical planning. You may have to keep your ceremony short, so its over quickly but is just as memorable, and make sure that the outdoor area is well-heated, so nobody feels too cold. I like this idea on The Knot website to arrange for shawls and hot cocoa for your guests. Additionally, inform your guests that you will be having an outdoor ceremony, so they can bundle up in warm woolens and come prepared for your spectacular event. Since winter weather is often tricky and you can’t predict how it will go, it is a good idea to have a backup plan, in case things don’t proceed in your favor on the day.

snow wedding
Image Credits: Corrinne Allen, via Flickr

5.You have limitations when choosing your winter wedding décor

Unless there are budget constraints that restrict you from planning the wedding of your dreams, there is no other reason for a less-than-picturesque winter wedding décor. In fact, winter being closer to the holidays, you have plenty of festive options available than at any other time of the year. Look around the shops during winter and you will see that there are more décor choices than ever before. It is also likely that you will come across sales that you can make the most of. Make the most of the available and hot décor items like candles and baubles. With some creativity, you can easily transform them into any dream design you want, without looking like it was built for Christmas. So, if you aren’t keen on having a snowy winter wonderland wedding, just think of how you can use what is available and customize it to look different, but interesting. And, if you are a fan of snowy landscapes and dancing fairy lights that warm up the wintry scene, you will have no difficulty finding exactly what you want.

bouquet

6.Most guests won’t look forward to a winter wedding

In our experience, the opposite is usually true. Most guests are bored with attending weddings in spring and summer. However, winter weddings are far fewer, and offer a welcome respite to look forward to, during the cold months. Also, not all your guests are bundled in at home throughout the day. Winter doesn’t prevent them from going to work and school. So, your wedding is just another occasion that they have to attend, despite the cold. Since it will usually be closer to the time when they are planning Christmas and Thanksgiving, it will give them a chance to relax and enjoy themselves at a party that they don’t have to do much at. Also, with the festive season on it’s way, most people are cheerful and happy. This allows them to enjoy your wedding, take part in the fun and return home with cheer.

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7.Reduced daylight hours will dampen the party spirit

Not if you set the ambiance at your venue right. It has to be exciting, thrilling and full of party spirit. True that the shorter days may make it necessary to have a short outdoor ceremony. Nevertheless, you can continue the party inside with full pomp and show till late into the night, when you have a venue that is nice, warm and well-lit. The good thing about winter weddings is that it is easy to fashion a warm, glowing atmosphere with plenty of candles and soft yellow lights. It is a double bonus if you have snow; the image is simply spellbinding. If your venue has a roaring fireplace, it would add to the festive atmosphere. Make sure that the venue is properly warmed before the guests arrive, so they can quickly settle in. Activities like dancing and eating will do the rest of the job to heat up the atmosphere, and help everyone enjoy the beautiful event.

bright

8.Your food choices are limited

Just like with décor, your menu choices are only restricted by your budget. Although you may have to spend extra to get items that are off-season, it is possible if you are prepared to pay for it. However, you needn’t worry about a boring menu at all, even if you go with what is seasonally and locally available. Winter has it’s own rich bounty of natural ingredients. All you need is a good caterer, who can whip up a gastronomical feast with what is readily available. The cold weather outside makes this the perfect time to consider hearty family-style comfort food, which will warm palates but not strain your pocket. So, do your research in advance, and plan out your options. Also don’t forget that hot cocoa stations and s’more bars are great ideas that are best executed in winter than in any other season.

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9.Your photos will not look great

It is actually quite the opposite. If your wedding has light snowfall, imagine how romantic and beautiful your winter wedding photos will be in the outdoors. Although you may have to limit your outdoor shoots to when there is sunlight, indoor photography will not suffer on this account. Just make sure that your photographer has enough experience covering nighttime events, and brings the apparatus required for it. If there is a good flash light, and enough lighting at your venue you can get fabulous shots. Playing with light and shade will also give you some unusually impressive pictures, as well. Remember to tell your photographer in advance, if you want a soft, glowy and dreamy effect in your photos. It would be perfect to capture the winter wedding scenery in such a setting.

10.It is difficult to pull off a colorful palette

Many brides worry that they will have to either settle for a winter wonderland theme or a Christmas inspired palette, to keep it nice and attractive. This isn’t necessary. Warm, bright tones and metallic shades look wonderful in winter wedding palettes. This is the time when you can add bling to your décor to have sparkle and shimmer. Deep jewel tones like sapphire, emerald and berry colors make beautiful color palettes. If you are fond of patterns, you can even use this at your wedding. In fact, choose any color combination and any theme that you want, and find the right balance so you can pull it off successfully. Take a look at this Pinterest board for some glamorous and interesting combinations to inspire your wedding planning.

party table

So, that brings us to the end of our discussion. Didn’t we tell you that you didn’t have to worry much about planning a winter wedding. It isn’t a compromise, and you needn’t settle for anything if you plan it properly. In fact, when you do plan it properly, winter weddings are one-of-a-kind. The best thing is that it is the perfect romantic start to the rest of your life with your partner. Now tell us, do you think you are more inclined to be a January bride, or would you take the safe route and get married in spring?

Every winter bride needs the perfect wedding dress to look the part. Whether you prefer glamorous and sexy, or elegant and classic, we have hundreds of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Come visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride and make your pick today. Don’t forget the rest of the beautiful women in your bridal party. With dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and mothers of the brides, as well as evening gowns and cocktail dresses for all your pre-wedding celebrations, we have you fully covered. So, what are you waiting for? Begin your wedding shopping experience right away.

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Cool wedding accessories for the winter bride

Cool wedding accessories for the winter bride

Winter weddings are no longer unusual or nerve-wracking. There are plenty of brides who choose to get married in winter, making the most of the discounts during this off-season and thus having a fantastic wedding at a fraction of the original cost.

Nevertheless, winter weddings involve a certain level of planning, since the harsh weather may throw up some extra challenges. The bride has to choose her attire and accessories so that they are both practical and good-looking. Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there to consider.

If you are a winter bride, you do not have to worry about compromising your style. Instead, you can look fetching and perhaps even more glamorous than a spring or summer bride, when you plan your look properly. Here are some cool winter accessory suggestions we are sure you will love.

Winter wedding hair accessories

Elegant winter has a cool and crisp white charm to it. To make an impact in this striking white canvass, you need some sparkle. So, your winter wedding jewelry choice should essentially sparkle and shine. This is the right time to go with oversize wedding necklaces and earrings and not look overwhelming. Crystals, zirconia and diamonds are all options to consider. If you want to nail the fairy tale look, don’t hesitate to choose a tiara as your headpiece. Winter is one season when the tiara looks right, and it isn’t everyday that you can walk around wearing it. So, make the most of it when you can.

Here are two suggestions from our accessories collection at Best for bride.

This dazzling beauty is a head piece that can be considered a crown. With one that is so spectacular in size and details, you do not even need a veil to accompany it. Whether you pair it with your hair let down or with a bun, we think it will undoubtedly be a beautiful accessory. Find out more about this beautiful tiara by visiting this link.

If you felt the first one was a little too sparkly for your taste, here is a headpiece that is elegant and sophisticated, but much smaller in size. This headpiece features both sparkling stones as well as pearls, thus bringing together two different elements to fashion an elegant and pretty design. With this design, you can pair it with a matching necklace and ear studs as is featured here and complete your look perfectly. Check out this headpiece by visiting this link.

Winter Veil

Though not all brides choose to wear veils today, winter is a time when you should really consider this wedding accessory, simply for the added impact it can create. A wedding veil that is placed beautifully can transform you into a snow queen, and once again this is the season when even the longest and thickest veils will not look out of place. We love layered veils, not just for the added material it contains, but for the layered look that is so mysterious.

Here is a short double layer veil from our collection at Best for Bride. Simple in its structure, but with huge impact from the ruffled up layers in it, this is a beautiful choice that will complement almost any wedding gown. Whether you pair it with a sparkling headpiece, or wear it by itself, it will be an attractive accessory that will improve your overall bridal look.

Boleros or jackets

When you get married in winter, there will certainly be few minutes during the day when you will have to step out in the cold. It could either be during your entry into the venue from your vehicle, or when you go outdoors to take photographs in the cold. However brief the time spent outdoors may be, you will have to cover your shoulders and arms to keep from feeling too cold.

Many brides choose full-sleeve wedding dresses for winter weddings, as these usually cover up the shoulders and arms. However, there are brides who do not like this look at all. If you are a bride who has your mind set on a strapless or sleeveless design, do not worry. You can still wear this dress, and simply find an accessory like a bolero or jacket that allows you cover up when outdoors. A bolero is a short jacket that basically covers only your arms, shoulders and upper back. A jacket is longer and gives more significant coverage. It would be a good idea to choose either of these in white, as it will go well with your wedding dress.

Take a look at the jacket with this dress from our in-house collection at Best for Bride. The strapless satin gown can be worn by itself, or with this beautiful jacket that adds instant style to the otherwise simple design. With full-sleeves that start high at the neck and extend into a Juliet-style sleeve that later flares out at the base, this jacket is a beautiful accessory. Don’t you think it is a great choice for a wedding in the cooler months, when that little coverage is essential to stay away from the chilly breeze? If you want to check out this wedding dress and accessory, you can do so by visiting this page.

If you would like to look at something warmer and a little more dressy, we also have this beautiful fur cape with fine Tulle lace lining the sleeves and Peter Pan collars and further covering the edges along the entire length. The neckline can be drawn close with the little woolen tassels and keep you smug for as long as you have to spend in the outdoors. It is a great choice to wear with both lace wedding gowns and satin gowns, as the style works well with both vintage and modern styles alike.

Stylish wrap

Some wedding dresses have elaborate and exquisite detailing in the neck and shoulder regions, that wearing a jacket or bolero may conceal it completely. Another factor is that boleros and jackets aren’t very versatile, and there are very few ways in which they can be styled. If this factor makes jackets and boleros less attractive to you, the winter wedding accessory you should consider is a stylish wrap. Just as warm as a jacket, but one that allows you a lot of flexibility in the way you wear it, a wrap is perfect for a winter bride. It can be worn around the neck and shoulders, and the accessory can be used to keep the arms warm when outdoors. Depending on the fabric and thickness, there are different ways in which it can be worn. Wraps can be styled either as shawls or as scarves, and are a functional as well as good-looking accessory.

Featured here is a fur wrap, that is very comfortable and cozy to wear on a cold snowy day. The other options you can consider are wraps in materials like silk or made from pashmina, that are warm but not too bulky. It is a good idea to match the wrap to your wedding dress color, as this will add to your overall style.

White wedding boots

One of the most important things to remember when choosing your wedding shoes is that they should be comfortable. You will be spending long hours standing in them, and it should keep your feet snug and warm. In winter, you can always go with the traditional wedding shoe styles. However, they may not really be cozy if you have to spend even a short amount of time outdoors. The better option is to choose shoes that are appropriate footwear for the cold weather. Don’t worry that you’ll have to skimp on style because of this. There are great choices in white boots that are both fashionable and practical too.  

Pair of Woman's Boots (Wedding) LACMA 40.29.1a-b

Image Credits: Ashley Van Haeften, via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Shoes like the ones featured in the picture here are very stylish, and they can make sure you look gorgeous from top to toe. The special button-up design featured in the front makes it exquisite and attractive, and nobody could possibly question your fashion sense when you choose a pair like this. While you can always change into a pair of boots when stepping outside and wear your regular wedding shoes for the rest of the time, we think that you needn’t even do that when you have a splendid pair like these. There are also shoes that are lined with fur and can keep you warm.

Glittering ear pieces and bracelets

We’ve already mentioned about how sparkling jewelry is a must-have for a winter bride who wants drama and glamour. Here, we should specially mention over-size ear pieces and bracelets, as these are necessary to creating the perfect bridal look with maximum impact. Chandelier earrings, drops and large hoops are all great choices for winter wedding accessories. When the sparkle is not spared in any way, the effect is really beautiful and noticeable.

Take a look at the accessories this bride has chosen for her winter wedding day. The oversize earrings have a striking effect, and they work well with the dazzling neckline of the wedding gown, also scintillating from the intricate crystal elements scattered over it. All these details make it a good idea to skip a necklace for this dress, as it could create a cluttered look. Instead she has chosen to wear two bracelets, again with plenty of sparkle, to dress up her slender arms. We think it is altogether fantastic, don’t you agree? If you decide to skip the oversize earrings and choose something subtle, like a ear stud, don’t hesitate to add more sparkle to your overall look with a beautiful necklace. We have also found that  jewelry with deep dark gemstone looks particularly grand in the winter wedding scene. Stones like blue sapphire and deep red rubies are perfect to create this effect.

Glamor with gloves

Just like we found warm and snug winter boots to warm your feet, you need something to cozy up and keep your hands warm too. Bring back the charm of vintage style with a pair of fantastic white gloves, that will double up by keeping you perfectly snug. Whether you choose to wear them throughout the day, or only when you step outdoors, it will still be a ravishing style statement. You can choose them in material like suede, leather or even fabric, depending on what matches your style. If you do not want to cover your entire wrist and hand, you can also consider wrist warmers that leave your fingers exposed. You can wear this throughout the ceremony, as it is possible to use even during the exchange of rings.  

bride with a mirror

Image Credits: mahmoud99725, via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

If you want something truly vintage, forego the modern short glove that ends at the wrist, and instead choose long gloves that extend all the way from your fingertips to the elbows. Imagine how classic the pairing of these style of gloves would be with a strapless or sweetheart neckline.

We hope these ideas will help you accessorize your wedding dress to stay warm and still stylish at your winter wedding. To select from an extensive collection of accessories that are just perfect for your personal style, visit our online shop at Best for Bride and choose your favorites. We also have bridal dresses in all sizes and from leading design houses, wedding party outfits, décor, photography, cakes and more to offer you. Find out all about the different wedding services we offer, by visiting our website today.

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How to choose the perfect winter wedding gown

Winter weddings may not be standard fare, but they are unique in their own way. When you decide to get married when it is cold, you are set for adventure and excitement. Unlike a summer or spring wedding, when most wedding dresses work, you have to plan your winter look in detail to stand out as a stunning bride.

After all, there are more challenges to overcome; like staying warm in what you wear. Here we shall look at some factors that will help you feel good, without compromising on style when choosing your wedding gown.

Style with sleeves

via Best for Bride

Find a wedding dress with sleeves to stay warm. You can choose from stylish cap-sleeves to three-fourth length sleeves, butterfly sleeves or even full sleeves. While these do not have to be thick fabric, even lace or embellishments on sheer fabric can add a touch of drama to your look, making you a perfect winter princess.

Accessorize appropriately

If you have your heart set on a strapless gown, do not despair. You can pair it with a befiting shrug, stole or wrap, so you do not shiver when exposed to the cold. If you have a snow wedding planned, you will be the epitome of style in such accessories. Your outdoor photographs will be splendid, and undoubtedly frame-worthy when you flaunt your style in a stunning cashmere wrap or warm winter jacket. Pay attention to your footwear; a stunning pair of snow boots will not only keep you cozy, it will also be appropriate for the winter theme you are hosting.

Look lovely in layered skirts

Be a snow princess in luxuriously layered ball gown skirts. The cold weather will make this choice perfect, and you will benefit from the added layers that keep you cosy and snug. Don’t hesitate to choose poufy princess gowns in heavy lace or pretty embellished mermaid skirts, as this is the perfect weather to feel comfortable in these patterns.

Choose luxurious silk, satin and velvet

via Best for Bride

These fabrics drape well, but can weigh you down in warm weather. Fortunately, they work to your advantage when you wed in winter. Larissa and Duchess Satin gowns look elegant and sophisticated against the natural backdrop of white. Pair it with a fur wrap and you will be a vision in white.

Embellishments and ruffles for drama

via Best for Bride

When the natural background is white, your gown should have some special feature to make it stand out. This is what embellishments achieve. Sparkling details in crystal and metal can help you shine and shimmer through the wedding ceremony. Another superb choice for a winter wedding is a mermaid gown with ruffles in the skirt that imitate the grace and splendor of snow – it will make the perfect complement for the beauty of the landscape outside.

Be bold with color

via Best for Bride

When everything around you is white, why not choose a wedding gown in a different color? Stunning gowns in plush dark colors will help you stand out, or you can go for subdued colors like baby blue or blush. Make a statement with patterned fabric or gowns with contrasting colors in classic designs to look delicate and dainty.

Now you know what to look for to look romantically delightful on your winter wedding day. To find the perfect wedding dress for the occasion, or for more wedding tips and advice, check dresses on Best for Bride.

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5 Reasons We Love Winter Weddings

Winter isn’t usually a brides ideal time to get married, but there are so many reasons why we love winter weddings that it was hard to pick just five! If you aren’t sure when to hold your wedding, check out why we think a winter wedding is not only elegant, but festive and magical.

Many Vendors to Choose From

Not only will most vendors, suppliers and reception halls be available for any winter date you are thinking of, you’ll likely get a great price reduction as well. The winter months are a great option for the couple that is on a budget, but even if you aren’t, saving a little money by picking a wedding date in December, January or February will give you even more to spend on other things.

Seasonal Decor Looks So Chic

Think crystals, bare trees covered in ice and snow and even snowflakes. Place holders could be made out of a pinecone with a piece of sparkly paper with your guests name on it. Use lighting to your advantage and even add some blue lights to make everything feel like a warm ice palace.

Bridal Accessories Are Endless

Remember to think warm: there are so many choices when it comes to winter bridal accessories! Capes, faux fur stoles, hand warmers, gloves and so much more immediately come to mind as the perfect accent for a winter bride.

Any Color Palette Works

It’s true! You don’t have to think just blue or black for a winter wedding; any color palette works! Whether you want to keep with the winter theme and use black as a standout amongst white and cream colors and crystals, or heat everything up with a gorgeous red, the choices are completely up to you.

Comfort Foods

Serving (and eating!) comfort foods at your wedding will never feel so right! Your bar could offer after eight hot chocolate (that’s a hot chocolate with a shot of creme de menthe, topped with whipped cream!) and you could think about serving a creamy soup or stew, lasagna, shepard’s pie or casserole.

Ready to start planning your winter wedding? Head on over to Best For Bride and check out the wealth of winter accessories we have, as well as bridal dresses and more!