Winter Wonderland

I received this update in my email today and I thought it was fitting -- I've mentioned most of these reasons before, but it's nice to have a reminder as to why being a winter bride is a positive!

This past weekend has given us a glimpse in to the chilly weather that is soon to be upon us. Winter is looming, and for most it marks the end of the'wedding season' and the beginning of the holidayseason. While the cold is a major deterrent for a winter wedding, there are quite a few wonderful benefits that Eventurous wants you to know about if you are thinking this may be the time of year for your wedding!

The winter season, above all else, offers you options! With the wedding season past, you are much more likely to snag the venue of your dreams. Rentals are usually less slammed in the winter time so you have much more buying power and you may be able to work a deal with the chapel, rehearsal dinner space, or reception venue. Its always easier to plan your wedding when others are willing and able to work with your budget. Another great benefit of a winter wedding is that many of your guests can

likely attend. Lets be honest, everyone is constantly busy throughout the summer. Your guests social agenda is likely much less overwhelming in the winter time and more of your loved ones will likely be able to be with you on your special day.

Another fantastic benefit of a winter wonderland wedding is that decor is already started for you. Chapels are always overflowing with flowers and rental spaces are often set up for the holiday season. You can save quite a bit of money with some of the decor already in place for your wedding. When working with a budget, this can be a great way stay on track with your spending.

Perks of being a Winter Bride

As mentioned previously, being a Winter Bride sort of just happened to me... it wasn't intentional. BUT, I have found out that it comes with MANY perks... here's my Top 5 list:

1. Winter Weddings are a break from the ordinary - every summer when "wedding season" rolls around, even those of us who love weddings get a little tired of having a wedding every weekend. Having a wedding in the Winter is a little different in that you most likely won't be planning your wedding at the same time as 5 of your friends, and the winter wedding ambience is totally different than summer weddings.
2. Better venue options -- while most awesome venues tend to fill up at least a year in advance for spring/summer weddings, there are usually a relatively good amount of openings in the Winter for most venues. So you get better pickin's!
3. Vendor discounts -- Not only will you likely get better venue options, but you can usually negotiate for better venue pricing! In my experience, not only did I get my venue for much less than the cost it rents out for in the summer, but I also was offered "off-season" discounts from other vendors as well photographers, caterers, florists, hair & makeup, etc
4. Unique pictures -- I am loving the unique pictures that can be captured in the winter -- brides in the snow, brides in lovely boleros and capes, couples making snow angels in their formal wear, couples walking down streets in town that have holiday decorations, etc
5. You can use seasonal decorations at your ceremony or reception site as part of your wedding decorations! For instance, since I'm getting married Jan 2, the decorations from the Holidays will still be up at the church (loads of red flowers, yay!), at the hotel where the reception is taking place, and on the street lanterns in the downtown area so that I can get some fabulous night time shots!!