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?
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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