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Avoid the #1 relationship mistakeShape up for your wedding: 15-minute at-home workouts >
If you think there's no setting more romantic than a blanket of snow, then consider planning a winter wedding! Rich seasonal colors make this a great season for weddings -- but there are potential winter wedding problems you need to keep in mind. The first potential pitfall for weddings in most parts of the country is, obviously, the chilly temperatures. Your first line of defense is dressing your wedding party weather-appropriate. You can still choose strapless dresses or bridesmaids dresses with shorter hems, but consider incorporating wraps in an accenting color or even opaque tights if they will be spending a significant amount of time outdoors. (They can always take them off later if things heat up at the reception.) And while you probably won't want to plan an outdoor winter wedding reception (especially if you live in an area that gets plenty of snow and ice), there are still lots of ways to bring the beauty of the season indoors. Hang garlands of greenery or icicle-like crystals to highlight your dance floor or cake table, and incorporate plenty of candles, pinecones, and glittery details into your centerpieces. Another way to create a cozy reception is by using plenty of lush, soft textures -- like velvet, chenille, or tweed -- into your decor. You can even bring the best of the season with winter wedding catering ideas -- serve tasty soup shooters during the cocktail hour, hearty comfort food during the dinner, and pass out shortbread cookies and spiced cider for your midnight snack. Your guests will love the toasty treat -- especially before they have to head back into the cold. Another great option? A decked out coffee bar with extras like whipped cream and chocolate shavings will warm everyone up.
Planning a winter wedding? Get ideas for wedding dresses and cakes perfect for a wintry affair.
Photo: Bharat Parmar Photography
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Sierra & Andre in New York, NY
Libbey & Adam in New York, NY
Annie & Scott in Los Angeles, CA
Lauren & Andy in Naples, FL
Fresh takes on comforting favorites and a generous helping of white M&Ms.
Our favorite winter wedding flowers for December through February.
What's cool this season? From flowers to fashion, click below to find out more about these winter wedding trends.
Make sure you look your best with these winter wedding beauty tips.
Need a gorgeous idea for your winter wedding cake? Check out our favorites.
Our Winter Weddings Editor, Anja W.