10 Tips for a winter wedding in the snow

Is your dream to get married in a snowy, winter wonderland? Colorado and other snowy destinations already make the perfect place to tie the knot, but add a fresh foot of white powdery snow, and it’s even more magical.

Winter weddings or ceremonies aren’t for everyone, but as a wedding photographer in the mountains of Colorado, I think they’re pretty dang special. If you’re planning an indoor or outdoor winter wedding, here are a few tips to make it even more perfect!

1. Incorporate a winter activity you love

Want to take a few laps with your partner after you get married? Schedule it in! Consider getting married at a ski resort like Copper Mountain where you could take a lap from your venue.

Mulled wine by the fire? Splurge on an amazing dinner or private breakfast? Make time for what you love and make it memorable.

Maybe try something new like dogsledding, a snowmobiling tour, tubing, extreme sledding, or a private sleigh ride.

2. Have an earlier ceremony time

Winter brings early sunsets so be sure to Google what time the sunset will be in your location. This can affect pictures and dinner start times with the sun setting before 5PM.

Pro tip: you can look at what time the sun will be setting in your location on Google Earth Pro (on desktop)

3. Go with the weather

Winter in the mountains brings in all sorts of weather from powder days to bright, sunny, bluebird days. Sometimes the views will go out of range, freezing temperatures, or wild driving conditions. Regardless of what the weather may bring, you won’t be disappointed!

Go with the flow and give yourself plenty of time to transition as needed! We may move from doing pictures with mountain views to a setting with snowy trees. Whatever the weather, we’re ready for it! It always brings something magical!

4. Dress warm and cozy!

The obvious. Layers on layers. Winter *slip resistant* boots, long johns under your dress or pants, hand warmers, foot warmers, gloves (bonus points for heated.) I find the warmer I dress, the happier I am if I’m spending lots of time outside.

Most will opt for having either a coat or a faux fur shawl. You can always remove it for a portion of photos if you’re unsure! It will typically snow in the mountains October-May so be sure to plan accordingly.

5. Plan extra time for travel.

Give yourself a little wiggle room just in case there’s wild weather. I-70 in the mountains of Colorado is notorious for closing if it snows with accidents. Not to worry, they are always quick to clear it and snow doesn’t stop anyone here.

Don’t plan much on your travel days and just take some time to settle in! Find vendors that are in the town you’re in rather than having to drive in from a distance.

Is there a drive from your ceremony to the reception? Are people driving from out of state? These are all things to consider adding a little extra time for!

6. Provide Heaters & Blankets!

How can you make it a better experience for your guests? A bar with hot chocolate or warm cocktails? A basket with hand warmers, outdoor heaters, or maybe have blankets as your wedding favor.

7. Find seasonal flowers!

Greenery or dried florals will help with the cost of flowers during the winter season! Or consider muffs in lieu of bridal bouquets.

8. Capitalize on the holidays or do the opposite!

Always dreamed of a Christmas wedding in December with holiday lights and decor around town? It makes the perfect backdrop! Consider your guests and guest count. Holidays may be busier and more expensive for all of your guests.

Looking for a little winter wedding inspiration? Check out this gorgeous winter wedding in Vail!

Choose the right winter boots or shoes!

Don’t forget about footwear. Most mountain or ski towns at higher elevations are going to be snow-covered for most of winter. Be sure to have boots or shoes that will keep you warm and cozy! You’ll also want some traction on the bottom so you don’t slip.

Having the right shoes will give you more flexibility to move freely in your photos and look and feel confident. You don’t want to look super stiff if can only stand still in one spot because you’re slipping.

One of the most popular elopement locations, Sapphire Point can be SO icy in the winter! The more you’re prepared, the less you’ll stress!

Packing list for a destination winter wedding

• Slip-resistant boots
• Men’s shoes *with traction*
• Faux Fur or a layer to keep you warm during or after the ceremony
• Cute & cozy gloves (for wedding day)
• Waterproof gloves – out of all the expensive winter gloves I’ve bought, these are my favorite and keep my hands so warm! They are mittens with a glove lining so they’re extra warm.
• Cute hat
• Warm boots – these are my favorite winter boots! Great for activities and just walking around. Clunky and not cute, but they keep me warm!

Are winter weddings cheaper?

I think this will depend on your location! I would say in Colorado, likely not as winter is a prime time for ski vacations and Christmas and holiday trips. Often, you might find the prices to be more expensive. You may be able to find some winter discounts in certain areas or try planning outside December or January which can be popular times for winter weddings.

You need to add in additional costs like renting an SUV with 4-wheel drive VS. the cheapest sedan.