September 2024 - Bridebook

A Touch of Nevaeh x Bridebook: Black History Month Exclusive

In honour of Black History Month, we’re shining a light on a brilliant Black-owned business and its wonderful founder, Tessa Williams, in this exclusive feature.

Meet Tee

Tessa, fondly known as Tee, is the Founder and Director of A Touch of Nevaeh, a luxury wedding and event planning company. Born and raised in the vibrant community of Notting Hill, West London, Tessa’s passion for events led her to graduate from QC Event School, where she gained the expertise to thrive in the luxury wedding and event planning industry. As a certified International Event and Wedding Planning Professional™ (IEWP®), she brings both creativity and precision to every event she touches. When she’s not crafting beautiful experiences, Tessa embraces her most important role—being a mum to her two beautiful children. Read on to discover her story and best advice.

Photo © Eniola Alakija | Jon and Karyn’s wedding, planned by A Touch of Neveah

About A Touch of Nevaeh

A Touch of Nevaeh is a certified International Luxury wedding and event planning company based in Chelsea, London. We provide a first-class luxury planning experience to all our clients. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of curating diverse and multicultural weddings and events. Our in-house team consists of five coordinators: three of my sisters, my daughter, and my best friend. They’re an invaluable part of the team, and we couldn’t execute our weddings and events without them.

“We create astounding experiences that leave guests talking for years to come.” – Tee

Tee’s First Wedding Memory

I remember looking at photos of my parents’ wedding when I was young and being fascinated by it. Maybe it was because they got married a year before I was born, so I wasn’t there, but my two older sisters were flower girls. Their wedding was in the 80s, so it would be considered lavish by today’s standards. They had seven bridesmaids, two flower girls, seven groomsmen, and an incredible five-tier rum/fruit cake, plus two additional plain cakes (a total of seven cakes!). They even had a steel band procession for their entrance into the church—every little girl’s dream!

My parents have been married for 42 years and have seven children—six girls and one boy, who came last—plus nine grandchildren. Coming from such a big family, we’re never short of an event! Years later, my sister Nina and I became the family party planners. Today, we continue planning luxury weddings and events in the UK and internationally.

Tee’s Culture

I’m of Caribbean heritage. My parents were born in Dominica, a small island between Guadeloupe and Martinique (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, which is a common mix-up!). My dad was born in Pointe Michel, and my mum in Scott’s Head, where the Caribbean and Atlantic seas meet. I’ve been told it’s an incredible sight to see the two bodies of water joining.

When it comes to aspects of my culture that are most important to me, I think language is vital—it’s the essence of any culture, and part of a person’s identity and character. While English is Dominica’s official language, most people speak Kwéyòl (Creole), a French-based patois. I understand it well and speak it, especially when I’m conversing with my parents. Holidays and festivals like Independence Day and Carnival are also important, as they carry meaning and significance for our culture.

8 Cultural Traditions of a Caribbean Wedding ‘Then’…

Planning: A traditional Caribbean wedding typically involved the whole village or community where the couple lived. Relatives and community members all had roles in preparing for the ceremony. Today, modern couples seek help from wedding planners like me, but in the past, planning was a shared responsibility by those who knew the couple well.
Cakes: Traditional weddings required elaborate preparations, including vast amounts of food and several cakes. The cakes were covered with white lace so that the bride wouldn’t see them until her wedding day.
Ceremony: Before the ceremony, guests played ring games and enjoyed a variety of food. The festivities lasted until daybreak, when attendees prayed for the couple before they prepared for the ceremony. If the ceremony was held in a church, it usually followed the form of an English wedding. The groom wore a new suit, and the bride wore a white dress, veil, and gloves.
Reception: The wedding reception was usually held at the groom’s house, unlike today’s modern weddings, which are often held in grand, lavish venues.
Food: Dinner typically included dishes like curry goat, mountain chicken, rice and peas, roast yam, and boiled banana, similar to what we serve at weddings today.
Speeches: The speeches were usually full of praise for the couple, followed by dancing. Music was often provided by a mento band or a fiddle.
Entertainment: The highlight at the end of the evening was a dance with music from a fife, banjo, and guitar. Quadrilles were often danced, with one set comprising the bride, groom, their parents, maid of honour, and best man. Today, this is similar to the Candy dance or Electric slide.
Honeymoon: After the reception, the newlywed couple would go to their new home and stay there for about a week. In the past, the couple was excused from working in the fields, and family members would bring them food and offer advice. Nowadays, couples typically go on honeymoons or mini-moons.

In modern times, many of these folk customs and traditions are no longer observed, and new practices have been introduced, but the old ways are still remembered fondly and respected.

8 Tips to Consider When Planning Cultural Weddings ‘Now’…

Research, research, and research again: Before planning any cultural wedding or event, do thorough research on the cultures and traditions involved. Understanding these details ensures that the day is meaningful and respectful.
Incorporate both cultures: Whenever possible, integrate both cultures into the wedding. Families can feel left out if their traditions aren’t represented, so we always encourage our clients to include elements from both sides, whether through decor, music, food, attire, or even the cake flavor.
Communicate with both families: Include parents, grandparents, and elders in discussions about cultural elements. These conversations can sometimes be daunting, but they make family members feel valued and included. We’re here to help facilitate these conversations and guide you through all the decision-making.
Embrace your partner’s culture: This is an important step in building a strong foundation with your partner and their family. Educating yourselves about each other’s cultures is key, and these discussions will continue, especially if you plan to have children one day.
Understand your budget: Be transparent about your budget from the beginning. Sometimes couples have amazing ideas, but financial limitations can prevent them from being realised, which can lead to stress or disagreements between families.
Respect other cultures: It’s essential to respect the cultures of both families, and this applies to wedding professionals as well. Listen carefully to clients’ requests and do your best to meet them while respecting their cultural preferences.
Venue and vendor selection: Choose venues and vendors who can accommodate your cultural needs. Some venues may have restrictions, like not allowing open flames, or may require a license for outdoor entertainment like fire dancers or fireworks.
Inform your guests in advance: Prepare your guests for the big day, especially if there are specific attire requirements. For example, in some traditional weddings, family and guests may need to wear clothes made from the family’s tribal fabric. Give guests enough time to source materials and find a tailor or seamstress.

The Impact of Systematic Biases in the Wedding Industry

One area where we still see bias is in venue-preferred supplier lists. Most venues don’t have many, if any, Black-owned businesses on their preferred supplier lists. This has a big impact, as it limits opportunities for Black-owned businesses to work in established venues across the wedding industry. When clients are looking for vendors, they usually start by checking the venue’s supplier list. How are Black-owned businesses supposed to be seen if they aren’t on these lists? Black businesses are largely underrepresented in most venues.

When we’ve attended meetings with couples, the teams are predominantly Caucasian. Sometimes our Black clients find it difficult to navigate these meetings without me present. In the last couple of years, I have seen more Black-owned businesses added to preferred supplier lists, but there is still room for improvement. It would be beautiful to see more diversity in the wedding industry, especially when it comes to race.

Venues need to make a real effort to reach out to Black-owned businesses and provide them with the tools to get onto their preferred supplier lists. It’s important that venues cater to all races. For example, why is it that many venues don’t have Caribbean or African caterers on their preferred supplier lists? Imagine a Black couple wanting to book a venue but finding that it doesn’t offer Caribbean or African cuisine, and then being told they can’t bring in their own catering team either. Do you see the problem? The message is already clear: “We don’t cater to you.” It’s disappointing, and some couples end up settling for whatever cuisine the venue offers, even though it doesn’t represent their culture.

I’ve seen this firsthand. I remember being asked to organise a styled shoot for a venue through a recommendation. Everything was great at first—friendly phone calls with the venue manager, everything running smoothly. But when I showed up for the site visit, the energy changed completely. I walked in with a smile, and the first person I saw— the same venue manager—looked taken aback and asked if I was lost. I told him I was there for a site visit, and he seemed surprised. His whole attitude shifted. From being warm and welcoming over the phone, he became cold and distant in person. He even said, “You sounded different on the phone,” which I brushed off. Then, when the Caucasian photographer arrived, he was all smiles and much more talkative with him. At that moment, I knew it was because I’m a Black woman. Thankfully, the photographer and I had worked together before, and he praised my work, which visibly shocked and embarrassed the venue manager. It was a small victory, but the underlying issue was still there.

Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Environment

I can’t stress enough how important it is to include parents, grandparents, and elders from both families when discussing cultural elements for the wedding day. This applies to couples and other planners in the industry when working on multicultural weddings. These meaningful discussions help identify what’s important to each family, making it easier for the couple to make their final decisions. We also see it as an opportunity to learn about both cultures. By including everyone, we all gain a better understanding of each family’s traditions, which ensures support from both sides.

Challenges with Couples from Diverse Backgrounds

I remember planning a wedding for a beautiful couple from two diverse cultures. The bride was set on having a Black female harpist for their special day. The groom was happy with any harpist but understood how important this was to his soon-to-be wife. It sounds like a simple request, but I can tell you, it was a challenge (Oh, how we love a good challenge!). We searched far and wide to find exactly what they wanted. I emailed several harpists, but most Black female harpists are based in the U.S., and no one responded.

We eventually found the perfect match, but again, no response—this harpist was in the entertainment industry, not weddings, and was travelling internationally. So I started going through her old posts, commenting and asking her to reach out to us, but still no reply. Finally, we saw a picture of her with her boyfriend, whom she had tagged… Yes, we went that far and DM’d him to help track her down. Long story short, she contacted us, laughing, saying she loved our determination! We actually ended up hiring her for a different wedding later that year. Confused yet? So were we! In the end, our couple went with a European harpist. Sometimes you just have to meet halfway.

Meet Jon and Karyn

Meet our beautiful couple, Jon and Karyn Strachan-Zahedieh. Jon is of Iranian heritage, and Karyn is of Jamaican heritage. We absolutely loved planning their wedding. They didn’t hold back when it came to making their special day unforgettable. We made sure that every vendor we chose was able to deliver and bring the couple’s vision to life.

Quick story from the day. The day before the wedding, we found out that the mother of the bride had ordered another cake—a 3-tier traditional Caribbean rum fruit cake that needed to be displayed. The other cake was a 4-tier modern abstract design that would be constructed on the day. One thing I knew for sure was that both cakes couldn’t fit on the same table! I explained the issue to the couple and told them not to worry, we’d sort it out.

I called our decor stylist, Bukky from Beautiful Things Events, who had already packed her van for the day, but she assured me she’d figure something out. Long story short, our amazing stylist woke up extra early, stopped by her warehouse, and picked up another cake table that matched the first one perfectly. I also called the catering team to let them know we now had two cakes to cut, so they wouldn’t be confused.

Fast forward to the room reveal: our couple was absolutely blown away when they saw that we had managed to get a second table. It was another magical moment! The guests couldn’t stop talking about it, as they had never seen two wedding cakes displayed at a wedding before. Both cakes were not only stunning but also tasted delicious.

Plan Your Cultural Wedding

In celebration of Black History Month, Tessa Williams exemplifies how the wedding industry can honour and integrate cultural heritage into every celebration. Through her work with A Touch of Nevaeh, Tee highlights the importance of embracing and respecting diverse traditions, making each wedding a unique reflection of the couple’s backgrounds. Her and her team’s dedication to creating meaningful, culturally rich experiences underscores the impact that thoughtful planning can have on celebrating heritage and fostering inclusivity.

“What I enjoy most about weddings now is that I love meeting new people, learning different cultures, and bringing my clients’ visions to life.” – Tee

Credits

Author

Tessa Williams IEWP at A Touch of Nevaeh

Website: www.atouchofnevaeh.com

Socials: @atouchofnevaeh

Photography

Eniola Alakija

Website: www.eniolaalakija.com

Socials: @eniolaalakija

Happy Planning!

50 Best Winter Wedding Ideas

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and if you’re dreaming of a sparkling, cosy, and festive big day, look no further than a winter wedding. From twinkling lights and warm fireplaces to rich, velvety textures and seasonal blooms, winter weddings offer a magical atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, there’s no shortage of ways to make your big day feel like a winter wonderland. So grab a hot chocolate, wrap yourself in a fluffy blanket, and let’s dive into the best winter wedding ideas that will make your special day unforgettable!

What is a winter wedding?

Photo © Andi Watson Photography | See their Bridebook profile

A winter wedding can either be a wedding thrown in the winter or a wedding with a winter theme. Christmas weddings, new year weddings, and winter wonderland weddings are all also examples of winter weddings.

The crisp chill of winter makes for the perfect backdrop for your special day. It may not always snow in the UK, but our winters are always full of charm, cosy moments, and that unmistakable festive spirit. Keep your guests fed; keep your guests warm; and make sure your guests feel the love! After all, it’s the little touches that make a winter wedding truly memorable.

Winter wedding venue ideas

Photo © Dundas Castle | See their Bridebook profile

The best place to start when planning your winter wedding (or any wedding, in fact) is the venue. The venue is one of your biggest expenditures and will set the tone for the whole day. Keep reading for 10 beautiful winter wedding venue ideas.

1. Library

A library is a beautiful setting for your winter wedding. Nothing says ‘warm and cosy’ like being surrounded by stacks of classic books, warm lighting, and a crackling fireplace in the corner. Whether you and your partner are classic bookworms or you simply like the aesthetic of old bookshops, a library offers a unique, intimate atmosphere that’s full of charm.

Pro tip: Bookshops are unlikely to be kitted out with everything you need to throw a wedding reception. Work closely with your caterers and venue to ensure your guests are well fed and well watered. You may need to organise a separate catering tent, if necessary!

2. Historic castle

Always dreamt of getting married in a historic castle? You’re spoilt for choice in the UK. Did you know there are more than 4,000 castles on our little island? Granted, not all of them will be suitable for a winter wedding, but of those that are, you’ll find some of the most magical, fairytale-like venues imaginable.

A historic castle wedding brings elegance and romance to a whole new level, giving you the perfect backdrop for a truly royal celebration.

Don’t forget: Historic castles aren’t known for their warmth. Remind guests to dress warmly, light fires in fireplaces (if you can), and offer hot drinks throughout the day. Don’t be afraid of using a space heater of two if you need them!

3. Glass greenhouse

The juxtaposition of the lush life inside the greenhouse and the frosty world outside makes a glass greenhouse a stunning choice for a winter wedding. It’s like being in your own little tropical bubble while winter works its magic outside! A greenhouse offers the perfect blend of nature and elegance, all while keeping you warm and cosy. Plus, greenhouses are known to be warm, meaning guests can be more creative with their wedding attire.

4. An art gallery

Art galleries are another warm, cosy, and aesthetic choice for winter wedding receptions. With their sleek, minimalist design and ever-changing exhibitions, they offer a chic, modern backdrop for your special day. Be sure to check with the gallery about any restrictions on decorations or food and drink around the artwork. Many galleries may require specific catering setups, so work closely with your vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly.

5. A stately home

Stately homes are a classic choice for wedding receptions. They’re grand, timeless, and perfectly kitted out for hosting a wedding reception.

Due to their popularity, many stately homes offer in-house wedding planning services, meaning you’ll have a helping hand throughout the planning process. You’re still able to plan your own wedding; it just takes a little bit of the pressure off when you have someone to bounce ideas off and guide you through the logistics.

6. A candlelit church

There’s no need to go outside when there’s frost on the ground! If you plan to get married in a church, enquire as to whether you can hold your reception in the same church. This saves your guests having to venture out into the cold, and it will likely save you some money in the process! A candlelit church brings an extra layer of warmth and romance to your winter wedding, with the soft glow of candles creating an intimate and magical atmosphere.

7. Museum function room

Tons of museums have started offering their services as wedding venues. Whether you fancy hosting your guests under the skeleton of a blue whale or simply love the architecture of these classic buildings, a museum is a fantastic choice for a winter wedding.

Hosting your reception in a museum adds a sense of grandeur and culture to your day, with the exhibits serving as unique conversation starters for your guests. Plus, many museums have stunning architecture that requires minimal decoration — perfect for a low-key celebration where the building itself can do a lot of the work!

8. Lakeside lodge

Lean into the frozen aesthetic by hosting your reception in a lakeside lodge. With any luck, the lake will freeze over and create a breathtaking, frosty backdrop for your special day. A lakeside lodge offers that perfect mix of rustic charm and natural beauty, making it a cosy, intimate choice for a winter wedding. Think wooden beams, roaring fireplaces, and twinkling fairy lights reflecting off the icy lake — pure magic!

9. Grand ballroom

If you’re looking for your Beauty and the Beast moment, look no further than a grand ballroom to host your special day. With its timeless grandeur, a ballroom provides the ideal backdrop for a winter wedding that’s dripping in romance and glamour. Plus, the space is usually large enough to accommodate all your guests in one beautiful room — perfect for those larger winter celebrations.

10. Theatre

All the world’s a stage, and your wedding day is the performance of a lifetime. Why not make it official by tying the knot in a beautiful theatre? A theatre wedding offers drama and elegance, with velvet curtains, dramatic lighting, and tiered seating perfect for your guests to enjoy the show — your love story, of course! Imagine saying “I do” under the spotlight, with your nearest and dearest watching from the audience. It’s a venue that truly brings out the magic of the moment.

Winter wedding attire ideas

Photo © Rachel Lamb Bridal Design | See their Bridebook profile

You’ve found the perfect venue, now you need the perfect outfit. Check out these 10 ideas for winter wedding attire. We have ideas for brides, grooms, and guests, so no one is left out!

For brides

11. A high neck gown

Keep as much heat in as you can by covering up from top to toe. Long sleeves, high neck, and a dress that boots the floor will not only keep you warm but also give you an elegant, timeless look. A high-neck gown exudes sophistication, and when paired with long sleeves and a floor-length hem, it’s the perfect balance of style and practicality for a winter wedding.

12. Sparkling gloves

Live your Elsa dream while keeping toasty with a pair of sparkling gloves! Not only do they add a touch of winter magic to your look, but they also keep your hands warm during those outdoor photos or while greeting guests.

Choose gloves with delicate beading or sequins for that extra bit of shimmer, perfect for a winter wonderland wedding vibe.

13. Detachable overskirt

A detachable overskirt gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to fashion and warmth. It adds an extra layer of elegance for your ceremony, giving you that dreamy, princess-like silhouette. Then, when it’s time to hit the dance floor, simply remove the overskirt for a more streamlined, comfortable look. It’s practical, fun, and lets you transform your style effortlessly throughout the day.

14. A cape

Wearing a wool cape instead of a veil will really add a unique and magical touch to your winter bridal look. A wool or faux fur-lined cape not only keeps you warm but also brings a fairy-tale element to your outfit. It’s perfect for those dramatic outdoor photos and adds a regal vibe as you walk down the aisle.

For grooms

15. Festive bow tie

Lean into your chosen winter theme with a festive-themed bow tie. From Christmas to New Year vibes, and sequinned to plaid, there’s no better way to drive home a theme than with customised attire.

16. Double breasted suit

Stay warm while looking sharp with a double breasted suit. It adds a touch of sophistication, perfect for winter weddings where you want to look dapper without sacrificing comfort. The extra layer across your chest not only keeps the cold at bay, but also gives you a timeless, polished look.

17. Boots and thick socks

Keep your tootsies warm in the frosty winter weather by layering thick socks and polished boots. Not only will they keep your feet warm and dry, but they’ll also add a stylish, rugged edge to your wedding day look. Polished leather boots can be just as sharp as dress shoes, and the added comfort and warmth will be a lifesaver during those outdoor photos or snowy walks.

For guests

18. Wool wrap dress

A wool wrap dress is a perfect blend of comfort, style, and warmth. It’s the perfect way to stave off the cold while looking elegant and seasonal. Pair it with statement jewellery, tights, and pumps or heeled boots for a polished look.

19. Patterned tights

If you want to stand out against the crowd and support the newlyweds with their theme, consider wearing patterned tights. Not only will they keep you warm, but they’ll also add a fun and unique twist to your outfit. Whether you go for subtle polka dots, lace, or a bold geometric design, patterned tights are an easy way to bring a bit of personality to your winter wedding look.

20. Cashmere shawl or scarf

Stave off the cold while keeping it classy with a cashmere shawl or scarf. Perfect for all genders, a cashmere shawl or scarf adds a touch of cosy luxury to your outfit. It’s soft, warm, and lightweight, making it easy to wrap around yourself during chilly outdoor moments or in draughty venues.

Winter wedding entertainment ideas

Photo © Rich Reynolds Magician | See their Bridebook profile

Entertainment is key at a winter wedding. Guests won’t be able to sit outside and enjoy the nice weather, so you’ll need something fun and exciting for them to do in their down time. Check out this list of carefully curated ideas and get the party started!

21. Carol singers

Beautiful and classic, asking a group of professional carol singers to attend your wedding will really set the festive mood. Whether they’re singing during cocktail hour or serenading guests during dinner, carol singers add that magical winter touch that makes everyone feel cosy and joyful.

22. S’mores station

Pimp your s’mores! Everyone loves a good s’more, and what could be s’more fun than crafting your very own custom treat? Set up a s’more station with digestive biscuits, white and milk chocolate, marshmallows, and toasting sticks. You’ll need a small, constrained fire for guests to roast their s’mores, as well a range of toppings. You could offer chocolate syrup, peanut butter, crushed candy canes, hazelnuts, or whatever you prefer. Your guests will have the best time mixing and matching their favourite ingredients to create the ultimate s’more experience.

23. Firework send off

End your night with a bang with a spectacular firework display. A firework send-off is the perfect grand finale for your winter wedding. Not only will it give your celebration that extra sparkle, but it’s also a beautiful way for everyone to gather together and share in the excitement one last time before the evening wraps up.

24 .Hot toddy station

This is perfect for any whiskey lovers or those with Scottish or Irish heritage. A hot toddy is a deliciously warming cocktail made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water — perfect for fending off the winter chill.

Set up a hot toddy station where guests can customise their drink with different types of whiskey, spices like cinnamon or cloves, and even a splash of ginger, apple juice, or orange peel for a citrusy twist. It’s a cosy, crowd-pleasing option that will keep your guests toasty and happy throughout the night.

25. Make your own snow globes

Get those creative juices flowing by setting up a snow globe station! Provide clear globes, glitter, mini winter-themed figurines, and fake snow so your guests can craft their own little winter wonderland to take home. It’s a fun, interactive activity that adds a personal touch and doubles as a memorable wedding favour. Plus, who doesn’t love a cute snow globe?

Pro tip: Go eco-friendly and recycle as many elements as you can. Instead of clear globes, offer jam jars. Instead of winter figurines, offer sprigs from a plastic Christmas tree. Reusing as many elements as you can will not only lower the cost, but also reduce your carbon footprint!

26. Ornament-making station

Encourage guests to make their own Christmas tree decorations with an ornament-making station. You’ll need some simple supplies like clear baubles, paint, glitter, ribbons, and small holiday-themed trinkets. Guests can design their own personalised ornaments, which they can either hang on your venue’s Christmas tree or take home as a festive keepsake. It’s a creative, hands-on activity that everyone can enjoy, and adds a personal touch to your winter celebration.

27. Live artist

Having live artists as entertainment is all the rage at the moment, and that won’t be any different at your winter wedding. Live artists can draw doodles of guests, offer an artistic snapshot of the day, or even create a beautiful live painting of the ceremony or reception in real time. It’s a unique and memorable way to capture the magic of the day, and your guests will love watching the artwork unfold throughout the event.

28. Silent disco

Create a boogie wonderland at your winter wedding by hosting a silent disco. If you’ve never heard of a silent disco, it’s where guests wear wireless headphones and can choose from different music channels to dance to. It’s a quirky, fun twist that keeps the party going without the noise. It’s a sure-fire way to get everyone talking and laughing as they switch between channels and dance to their own beats!

29. Christmas karaoke

This idea won’t be for everyone. But, if your guests love a good sing-along, Christmas karaoke could be a hilarious and festive addition to your winter wedding. Set up a karaoke station with all the holiday classics—think Jingle Bells, All I Want for Christmas Is You, and Last Christmas. Whether it’s a group performance or a solo serenade, karaoke is a guaranteed way to get everyone in the holiday spirit, and it’ll create some unforgettable (and likely hilarious) memories.

30. Gingerbread house contest

Set up a gingerbread house decorating competition to bring out the creativity in your guests. Provide pre-assembled gingerbread houses, icing, boiled sweets, jelly sweets, hundreds and thousands, and anything else they’ll need to go all out with their designs.

Whether it’s a traditional festive look or a wacky, sweetie-covered masterpiece, guests can team up to build the ultimate gingerbread house. You can even have a small prize for the best creation — just make sure everyone gets to nibble on some of the decorations as they work!

Winter wedding food ideas

Photo © Dine | See their Bridebook profile

Guests expect to be well fed at a wedding — especially a winter wedding. Read on for 10 fun and creative ideas for winter wedding food.

31. Roasted chestnuts

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, jack frost nipping at your nose…

Roasted chestnuts are a winter classic for a reason. They’re warming, delicious, and a healthy snack choice. Set up a chestnut roasting station and let guests enjoy the delicious scent and the satisfying crunch of freshly roasted chestnuts as they mingle.

32. Hot chocolate bar

Similar to the hot toddy station from earlier, you could set up a hot chocolate bar with all the trimmings. Think whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, crushed candy canes, and flavoured syrups like caramel or hazelnut. For an adult twist, offer Baileys or Kahlua for guests who want to spike their chocolate. It’s a sweet treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

33. Stew cup canapés

Trust us, little paper cups of stew will be an absolute hit during your wedding reception. Whether you fancy a classic scouse, ham hock and split pea, or even a rich beef and ale stew, serving these hearty mini portions in small, handheld cups will keep your guests warm and satisfied. The great thing about stew canapés is that they’re comforting, filling, and easy to enjoy while mingling.

34. Warm pretzel bites

Warm, chewy, and salty, pretzel bites are a criminally underrated wedding snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like warm cheese, mustard, or even a sweet cinnamon glaze for a twist. Pretzel bites are perfect for keeping things casual yet delicious, and your guests will love munching on them while they chat and celebrate.

35. Fondue station

Whether it’s chocolate, cheese, or even caramel, fondue is a cosy winter classic that adds a bit of interactive fun to your wedding. Guests can dip bread, fruit, or veggies into warm, gooey cheese, or indulge their sweet tooth by dunking marshmallows, strawberries, and pretzels into rich melted chocolate. It’s the ultimate winter comfort food with a social twist!

36. A full roast

What could be more festive than serving a full roast dinner as your main course? Whether it’s turkey, beef, nut roast, or unseasonable lamb, a full roast dinner is the ultimate winter feast. It’s hearty, comforting, and will definitely hit the spot on a chilly winter’s evening.

37. Gingerbread favours

Sweet, crisp, and festive, gingerbread wedding favours are sure to be a hit with your guests. You can personalise them with icing to include your initials, wedding date, or cute winter designs like snowflakes or Christmas trees. Not only are they a delicious treat, but they also double as adorable, edible keepsakes that your guests can enjoy at home (if they don’t eat them right away, of course!).

38. Soup starter

Keep your guests warm and toasty by serving a soup starter with crusty bread and fresh butter. Whether you’re a fan of the classic leek and potato, roasted red pepper and tomato, or even butternut squash and sage, a warm soup starter will set the perfect tone for a cosy winter meal.

39. Cheese board dessert

Cheese boards are another winter classic. We’re thinking a cranberry wensleydale, a sharp cheddar, and a creamy brie, paired with seasonal fruits like figs, grapes, and perhaps some candied nuts for that extra touch of indulgence. Add honey, chutney, and a variety of crackers and breads, and you’ve got a cheese board that will have your guests swooning.

40. Baked Alaska

The 90s called; they want their dessert back.

In all seriousness, Baked Alaska is making a comeback, and it’s the perfect show-stopping dessert for a winter wedding. Never heard of it? Picture layers of ice cream and cake, covered in a beautifully toasted meringue, served as your grand finale. Not only is it a nostalgic throwback, but it’s also dramatic and delicious —guests will love the mix of warm and cold, soft and crunchy.

Winter wedding decor ideas

Photo © The Rustic Wedding Company | See their Bridebook profile

Whether your theme is overt or understated, the decor in your winter wedding is the icing on top of the cake. We’ve collated our top 10 favourite winter wedding decor ideas to inspire your big day.

41. Pinecone place names

Simple but effective, pinecones make for the perfect natural, wintery place name holders. Simply slip a name card into each pinecone, and voilà— you’ve got a charming, rustic way to guide guests to their seats. You can even dust the edges with a little faux snow or glitter for an extra festive touch.

42. Twinkling fairy lights

Fairy lights are the perfect decor for weddings of all seasons, but they look extra special in the winter. Draped across ceilings, wrapped around trees, or woven through centrepieces, twinkling fairy lights add a warm, magical glow to any winter wedding. They mimic the sparkle of fresh snow and help create a cosy, romantic atmosphere. Plus, you can never have too many — trust us on this one!

43. Snowflake confetti

Opt for confetti cut in the shape of pretty snowflakes. Whether it’s tossed during the ceremony or as you leave the reception, snowflake confetti adds a whimsical, festive feel. Bonus points if you mix in a bit of biodegradable glitter to make it sparkle as it falls!

Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, not every snowflake is completely unique. But, most snowflakes are between .02 and .5 inches wide — much smaller than people think!

44. Velvet table runners

Velvet table runners will add a touch of glamour and opulence to your tablescapes. You can find velvet table runners in a variety of colours, thicknesses, and textures, allowing you to match them perfectly to your wedding’s colour scheme.

Deep winter tones like emerald green, burgundy, or navy add warmth and elegance, while lighter shades like silver or blush give a softer, more romantic feel.

45. Snowfall projector

If you really want to hammer home the winter theme, you can find projectors that cast gentle, moving snowflake patterns across your venue. It’s a brilliant way to create the illusion of a snowy winter wonderland without the cold! Whether you use them during your ceremony or as part of your reception lighting, this subtle yet magical touch will bring a festive sparkle to your big day. Plus, it’s a great backdrop for photos!

46. Candles, candles everywhere

This one’s a real showstopper. Don’t underestimate the beauty of the humble candle. All you’ll need is a collection of short, medium, and tall candles organised at different heights throughout your venue to create a warm, glowing ambiance. Place them along the aisle, around the reception tables, or even on the windowsills. The flickering light adds an intimate and cosy vibe that perfectly complements a winter wedding.

47. Christmas trees

Whether you choose to decorate them, or keep them plain and beautiful, Christmas or fir trees are the ultimate festive winter wedding decor. You can decorate them with simple white lights for an elegant touch, or go all out with ornaments that match your colour scheme.

48. Bauble centrepieces

Bowls filled with baubles make for a simple and beautiful table centrepiece. Choose baubles that complement your wedding colours or go for metallics like gold, silver, or copper for a sophisticated winter feel. You can mix them with a bit of greenery, pinecones, or even fairy lights to add some texture and sparkle.

49. Eucalyptus centrepieces

Eucalyptus stems are a simple but beautiful way to add some greenery to your special day. Place them in vases, weave them into garlands, or drape them down the centre of your tables. Pair with candles or fairy lights for a fresh touch that will make your decor pop without overwhelming the space.

50. Floral ice buckets

This one will take a little forward planning. You’ll need big ice moulds, flowers, and a ton of water. Freeze pretty, edible flowers like pansies, roses, or even sprigs of rosemary into large ice blocks, then use them as ice buckets to chill wine or champagne at your reception. Your guests can pop them in their drinks to keep them cool, or simply admire their beauty throughout the day.

Plan your perfect winter wedding with Bridebook

A winter wedding is the perfect mix of romance, sparkle, and cosy vibes. Whether you’re planning a subtle winter wonderland theme or a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, winter really is the most wonderful time of the year.

So, don’t wait — start planning your perfect winter wonderland celebration today! Grab that checklist, enquire with venues, and let the festive magic begin. With a little bit of planning and a whole lot of love, your big day will be one to remember forever. Oh, and don’t forget to download the free Bridebook app — it’s a lifesaver when it comes to wedding planning!