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The truth behind 10 winter wedding myths

Winter weddings are growing in popularity, with more and more brides opting for this romantic wedding season. I think these women are really clever, to make the most of this unusual choice to create fond memories.

Planning a wedding in winter shouldn’t be too difficult, if you actually consider it. There are several misconceptions associated with a winter wedding, and this is why many brides don’t even think of the idea.

Let us take a look at some of the most common winter wedding myths that you will most likely hear, if you announce you will be getting married during the coldest time of year. Don’t worry, for we are here to give you the actual facts and tell you if it is indeed something you need to worry about, or just another thing that you let it in one ear and out the other!

1.You cannot choose any wedding dress you want

If you think you should cover yourself up in a full-length, full-sleeve, turtle-neck wedding dress, to keep the cold at bay, you are mistaken. Don’t think too much about the strapless or backless gown that you simply love, just go for it!

The cold is a given factor whether you wear a full-sleeve gown or a sleeveless one. Take a cue from our designer collections for winter and fall. I’m sure you won’t find more than a handful of full-sleeve dresses there. This is because brides love and do wear dresses that expose the neck, shoulders, back and arm. Since you will most likely be having an indoor ceremony in a heated area, you won’t feel cold. And for those valuable outdoor photo moments that you cannot miss, this is the time to add style to your ensemble with a luxurious wrap, stole or jacket. You can view our fantastic collection here.

Shine brighter than any snowflake at your snow-kissed winter wedding with this beautiful Sophia Tolli Mon Cheri wedding gown. The sweetheart neckline adds a touch of romantic to an already ravishing wedding dress design. Check more details about this dress by visiting this link here.

2.Winter weddings are cheaper

Your wedding expenses depend entirely on the type of wedding you have, the number of guests attending and what you choose to have at your wedding. Winter is the off-peak season where weddings are concerned. So, you may be able to get a better rate if you negotiate, or snag a discount that a vendor advertise. You also have a better chance of finding such discounts this time of year, as vendors are more likely to search for clients, and not the reverse. Nevertheless, your wedding expenses will depend on how you plan your wedding. If you go with seasonal fare, choose flowers that are available, and search for the best discounts and deals, you will be able to pull off your wedding on a smaller budget. However, if your wedding menu will have items that are not easily available this time of year, or you want floral décor and bouquets with spring or summer flowers, be prepared to shell out extra.

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3.You have limited options in bridesmaids dresses

Just like with wedding dresses, you may quickly assume that your bridesmaids will need full-length dresses that cover the neck and arms. Well, you don’t! The same rules that apply to you, go for your bridesmaids too. Feel free to choose short, sexy dresses, as long as your wedding is in a well-heated venue. They can always accessorize with a warm jacket, wraps or stoles if they have to spend time in the cold outdoors. Additionally, short dresses give them the chance to look stunning and stylish. Enter snow boots or knee-high boots and a cozy Pashmina shawl, and show me one girl who isn’t excited to wear the short dress that you choose for her.

Don’t you think this 8108S from the Alfred Angelo Bridesmaids collection is a delightful dress that your bridesmaids will love to wear? This cocktail length gown with a stunning sheer halter neckline features necklace beading and ends just above the knee. Not only does it look smart and glamorous, it is also a practical choice that your girls will think of reusing after the wedding. Check this bridesmaid dress out at this link to our collection.

4.An outdoor wedding is off-the-cards

Why should you limit yourself to the indoors when there is so much beauty in the landscape outdoors? We say, plan your event outdoors, and live your dream. It will be a memorable and unique event, when you do. All it takes is a little practical planning. You may have to keep your ceremony short, so its over quickly but is just as memorable, and make sure that the outdoor area is well-heated, so nobody feels too cold. I like this idea on The Knot website to arrange for shawls and hot cocoa for your guests. Additionally, inform your guests that you will be having an outdoor ceremony, so they can bundle up in warm woolens and come prepared for your spectacular event. Since winter weather is often tricky and you can’t predict how it will go, it is a good idea to have a backup plan, in case things don’t proceed in your favor on the day.

snow wedding
Image Credits: Corrinne Allen, via Flickr

5.You have limitations when choosing your winter wedding décor

Unless there are budget constraints that restrict you from planning the wedding of your dreams, there is no other reason for a less-than-picturesque winter wedding décor. In fact, winter being closer to the holidays, you have plenty of festive options available than at any other time of the year. Look around the shops during winter and you will see that there are more décor choices than ever before. It is also likely that you will come across sales that you can make the most of. Make the most of the available and hot décor items like candles and baubles. With some creativity, you can easily transform them into any dream design you want, without looking like it was built for Christmas. So, if you aren’t keen on having a snowy winter wonderland wedding, just think of how you can use what is available and customize it to look different, but interesting. And, if you are a fan of snowy landscapes and dancing fairy lights that warm up the wintry scene, you will have no difficulty finding exactly what you want.

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6.Most guests won’t look forward to a winter wedding

In our experience, the opposite is usually true. Most guests are bored with attending weddings in spring and summer. However, winter weddings are far fewer, and offer a welcome respite to look forward to, during the cold months. Also, not all your guests are bundled in at home throughout the day. Winter doesn’t prevent them from going to work and school. So, your wedding is just another occasion that they have to attend, despite the cold. Since it will usually be closer to the time when they are planning Christmas and Thanksgiving, it will give them a chance to relax and enjoy themselves at a party that they don’t have to do much at. Also, with the festive season on it’s way, most people are cheerful and happy. This allows them to enjoy your wedding, take part in the fun and return home with cheer.

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7.Reduced daylight hours will dampen the party spirit

Not if you set the ambiance at your venue right. It has to be exciting, thrilling and full of party spirit. True that the shorter days may make it necessary to have a short outdoor ceremony. Nevertheless, you can continue the party inside with full pomp and show till late into the night, when you have a venue that is nice, warm and well-lit. The good thing about winter weddings is that it is easy to fashion a warm, glowing atmosphere with plenty of candles and soft yellow lights. It is a double bonus if you have snow; the image is simply spellbinding. If your venue has a roaring fireplace, it would add to the festive atmosphere. Make sure that the venue is properly warmed before the guests arrive, so they can quickly settle in. Activities like dancing and eating will do the rest of the job to heat up the atmosphere, and help everyone enjoy the beautiful event.

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8.Your food choices are limited

Just like with décor, your menu choices are only restricted by your budget. Although you may have to spend extra to get items that are off-season, it is possible if you are prepared to pay for it. However, you needn’t worry about a boring menu at all, even if you go with what is seasonally and locally available. Winter has it’s own rich bounty of natural ingredients. All you need is a good caterer, who can whip up a gastronomical feast with what is readily available. The cold weather outside makes this the perfect time to consider hearty family-style comfort food, which will warm palates but not strain your pocket. So, do your research in advance, and plan out your options. Also don’t forget that hot cocoa stations and s’more bars are great ideas that are best executed in winter than in any other season.

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9.Your photos will not look great

It is actually quite the opposite. If your wedding has light snowfall, imagine how romantic and beautiful your winter wedding photos will be in the outdoors. Although you may have to limit your outdoor shoots to when there is sunlight, indoor photography will not suffer on this account. Just make sure that your photographer has enough experience covering nighttime events, and brings the apparatus required for it. If there is a good flash light, and enough lighting at your venue you can get fabulous shots. Playing with light and shade will also give you some unusually impressive pictures, as well. Remember to tell your photographer in advance, if you want a soft, glowy and dreamy effect in your photos. It would be perfect to capture the winter wedding scenery in such a setting.

10.It is difficult to pull off a colorful palette

Many brides worry that they will have to either settle for a winter wonderland theme or a Christmas inspired palette, to keep it nice and attractive. This isn’t necessary. Warm, bright tones and metallic shades look wonderful in winter wedding palettes. This is the time when you can add bling to your décor to have sparkle and shimmer. Deep jewel tones like sapphire, emerald and berry colors make beautiful color palettes. If you are fond of patterns, you can even use this at your wedding. In fact, choose any color combination and any theme that you want, and find the right balance so you can pull it off successfully. Take a look at this Pinterest board for some glamorous and interesting combinations to inspire your wedding planning.

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So, that brings us to the end of our discussion. Didn’t we tell you that you didn’t have to worry much about planning a winter wedding. It isn’t a compromise, and you needn’t settle for anything if you plan it properly. In fact, when you do plan it properly, winter weddings are one-of-a-kind. The best thing is that it is the perfect romantic start to the rest of your life with your partner. Now tell us, do you think you are more inclined to be a January bride, or would you take the safe route and get married in spring?

Every winter bride needs the perfect wedding dress to look the part. Whether you prefer glamorous and sexy, or elegant and classic, we have hundreds of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Come visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride and make your pick today. Don’t forget the rest of the beautiful women in your bridal party. With dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and mothers of the brides, as well as evening gowns and cocktail dresses for all your pre-wedding celebrations, we have you fully covered. So, what are you waiting for? Begin your wedding shopping experience right away.

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Fixing the date: The advantages and disadvantages of weddings in each season

Weddings can take place anytime of the year! Today, it is possible to be a winter bride, just as you can be a spring or summer bride. While this flexibility is great for some brides, others may end up being more confused with the availability of more choices.

If you are currently in this situation; having trouble deciding the best time of year to have your wedding, here is some help. Take a look at our list to compare the pros and cons of getting married in any season. Hopefully, this will help you pick the option that is just right for you.

Spring

spring

Now every field is clothed with grass, and every tree with leaves; now the woods put forth their blossoms, and the year assumes its gay attire.”

The Roman poet, Virgil captures the essence of spring in the above quote. Spring is a season to rejoice, and nature shows us how to. As Mother Nature marks this season with welcome warmth after a chilly winter, pops of color begin to appear everywhere. As flowers bloom and the green grass sprouts in bounty, the air feels fresh and alive. Associated with fresh scents, cool weather and beautiful natural backdrops, many couples find spring the best season to get married. So, here are the advantages and disadvantages of picking a date in this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Just the right temperature: Neither is spring stifling and warm like summer, nor chilly like autumn or winter. The temperature is just perfect to relax and enjoy. So, your guests will look forward to attending a ceremony and not complain about making the trek in bad weather. Plus, the right temperature makes it possible to plan an outdoor wedding
  • Season when colors pop: Take the cue from nature itself. Spring is when fresh buds bloom and create a cascade of beautiful colors in the natural landscape. The lush greenery makes it the right time to plan an equally colorful, warm wedding. So, if you must have bright colors at your wedding, this is the season to choose.
  • Plenty of flowers to choose from: A stunning variety of flowers blossom in spring, making it easy for you to find flowers of every color and texture for your wedding décor, bouquets and more.
  • The season for most vegetables and fruits: If you want to make the most of seasonally available bounty for your wedding, spring is the right choice. This is when most vegetables and fruits are easily available. This will allow you to plan a menu that you fancy, without having to search or arrange for the ingredients at extra cost.

Disadvantages

  • Allergy season is on: With most flowers in bloom, this is the time when allergies are at their worst. Guests with allergies may prefer to stay away from your wedding, especially if it is an outdoor affair, for health reasons.
  • Prices are highest: Since most couples prefer to be married in spring, this is the time when you will be spending most on wedding expenses. Venues will be priced higher during this peak season, so you can either shell out more for your dream venue or settle for a weekday wedding to get a better price.
  • Higher competition for vendors: Just as the prices go up, so does the demand for quality wedding services. Since most vendors can cater to only limited number of weddings at a time, your will have to book your wedding services early to ensure you get the ones you prefer.
  • More holidays this time of the year: Easter and school graduation happens in spring. So, if your guests have holiday plans or other events to attend at the same time, they may be unable to make it to your wedding. Nevertheless, you can always plan your wedding, adjusting for dates that do not clash with these holidays.

Summer

summer

I almost wish we were butterflies and liv’d but three summer days – three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain.”

John Keats wrote these mesmerizing lines for his beloved Fanny Brawne, and it conveys romance, excitement and joy; all that is Summer!

 

After spring, summer is the next most popular wedding season. Although the weather is usually warmer than in spring, in some parts of the world, this is better as it makes the climate very pleasant. Summer is also the best time to plan a destination wedding. The days become longer and you have plenty of time to party. This makes it perfect for an exciting, fun occasion. Let us look at the pros and cons of this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Flowers still in season: Come summer, and you still have plenty of flowers to choose from. So, you needn’t compromise on having a spectacular bouquet or plenty of floral elements in your décor.
  • You can have a long wedding day: The best thing about summer is that with extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to party. You could even plan the ceremony later in the day than would be necessary in any other season, if needed.
  • It is holiday season: Summer is the season when schools close for holidays, people take time off work and enjoy a break. So, it is usually convenient, especially for those who have to travel from far for your wedding.
  • Everything is saturated with color: Just as the sun shines brightest, everything in summer looks vibrant and colorful. This is the perfect ambiance for a wedding where you want lots of natural color.
  • Outdoor weddings are still possible: Unless the place you stay is unbearably hot, it is possible to have the outdoor wedding you always wanted.
  • Perfect time for a beach wedding or destination wedding: If you always wanted to get married in an exotic location like a beach in the Bahamas, summer is when you should plan it, to enjoy the best experience.

Disadvantages:

  • Your wedding may clash with your guests’ holiday plans: Like two sides to a coin, having your wedding during the holidays will be convenient for many. However, there may also be others who have planned a vacation at this time, and it may not be possible to reschedule their plans to accommodate your wedding.
  • Chances for rain: Summer showers are nature’s way of surprising everyone, including to-be-married couples. So, if you have an outdoor wedding, you cannot rule out the possibility of rain. Having a back-up plan, like an alternate venue in case of rain, can turn out to be expensive, but necessary.
  • Extra precautions to stay and keep things fresh: When the temperatures soar, flowers wilt quickly and people tend to look tired sooner. From choosing hardy flowers and wearing water-proof makeup, you will have to take more precautions when you get married in summer.
  • The competition for venues and vendors continues: Just like spring, summer is also popular wedding season. So, the competition for quality vendors and great venues continues. The prices are also quite high this time of year, for the same reason.

Autumn

autumn

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower”—Albert Camus

When the leaves turn color, and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful with orange, brown and red tones everywhere, when the breeze begins to blow and beckon snow, Autumn is here!

The backdrop of autumn is spectacular, and romantic, making it a great time to get married. Nowadays, autumn weddings are very popular. Temperatures dip, but it is still comfortable. So, weddings in this season are convenient and pleasant.

Advantages:

  • Beautiful nature: The stunning foliage that is fall’s own feature, punctuates the air with romance. This backdrop is unique, perhaps, even more than spring. The refined sophistication of nature during this season makes it a wonderful time for an elegant, classic wedding.
  • Pleasant weather: The weather is comfortable and pleasant during the first half of autumn, making it easy for people to travel or even attend an outdoor wedding if that is what you have planned.
  • A variety of menu options: Fall is associated with pumpkins, squashes, spices like cinnamon, chocolate, apples and berries. These are all treats for the taste buds, and comforting when served at meals. So, hearty meals at your wedding couldn’t get better, than in this season.
  • Interesting décor options: With the scenery so beautiful, it would be a shame to not incorporate the signature elements of fall into your wedding day. Turn to nature itself, and you have plenty of inspiration to set up magnificent centerpieces and attractive décor at your venue.

Disadvantages:

  • Unexpected frost: Autumn is often unpredictable, with some days too chilly to even step outdoors. There is also the risk of frost. So, this can be a damper for your wedding plans.
  • Not holiday season: With the holiday season approaching, people are busy at work and school this time of year. So, it may not be convenient for all guests to make it to your wedding, especially those who have to travel from out-of-town.
  • You will need an indoor venue: Although an outdoor ceremony is possible in fall, dancing into the night may be a problem as temperatures fall drastically, after sunset. So, you’ll have to either find a venue where you can have the rest of the reception indoors, or settle for an indoor venue for the whole function.

Winter

winter

“The color of springtime is in the flowers. The color of winter is in the imagination.” – Terri Guillemets

There was a time when winter weddings were rare. It is not so much now! The cold season is perhaps the most romantic, as this is the time everyone yearns to cozy up and feel warm and loved. Isn’t that just perfect for a wedding?

Advantages

  • Have a memorable wedding: With fewer couples tying the knot in the cold months, it is the best time to plan a memorable wedding that everyone will remember. The scenery is amazing. Not only will your vendors work at a more relaxed pace, you have better chances of getting all that you need to plan your big day, without much competition from other couples.
  • Everything is cheaper and available: Being the off-season, you will not face much trouble getting the venue you desire, or booking vendors you like the most. Also, the prices will be better, as wedding services are ready to slash their prices upon negotiation.
  • Everything will look like it ought to be: With the temperatures being so low, you needn’t worry about your bouquet wilting, or centerpieces looking tired by the end of the day.
  • Most guests can attend: If you plan your wedding around the holidays in winter, like Christmas and Thanksgiving, your guests will find it convenient to attend your wedding. They will mostly be taking time off work or school at this time of year, and so it won’t be a big deal adding your wedding into their holiday plans.

Disadvantages

  • Low temperatures: In this weather, not everyone would be excited about driving to your wedding on a weekend, when they would rather be snug at home. An outdoor wedding is out of question.
  • Shorter days: You will have fewer hours of daylight, and so your wedding would have to be run on a tight schedule, so you can make use of the sunlight while it lasts.
  • Nature’s unpredictability: Unexpected heavy snowfall, blizzards and cold waves are the different ways in which nature can wreak havoc on your carefully thought-out winter plans. It can be very difficult to change plans at short notice.
  • Guests may be on tight budgets: With buying gifts for the holidays and vacationing in summer, your guests may feel the pinch, when getting you a wedding gift or putting aside funds for travel and dressing up to attend your wedding.

So, that wraps it up! Tell us, which of these seasons would you love to get married in?

For more tips, tricks, wedding advice and more, keep visiting us here, at http://www.bestforbride.com/ —your one-stop destination for everything bridal!

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Tips to plan a Christmas Wedding

Whether you love the idea of a Christmas-inspired wedding in spring, or want your holidays to be very merry with the added bonus of a wedding at the time, Christmas weddings are a delightful idea. Steeped in tradition, with so many festive elements, there are a few ideas we can borrow from Christmas and rock at your wedding.

With Santa’s visit scheduled in just a few days, this is the best time to take a look at how you can plan a fantastic Christmas wedding! So, bring on the holiday cheer and get ready to be inspired.

Christmas table decorations
Table settings with red napkins, red glass candles, glasses, and a floral centerpiece with small miniature vases of carnations tulips and holly
Image Credit: ProFlowers, via Flickr, [CC BY 2.0]

Let the tables at your wedding be elaborate masterpieces of red, gold, silver and white. Be generous with candles and throw in the seasonal signatures like fir, pine cones and holly. We love the idea of adding cute mini Santa hats and stockings with a scattering of snow for authenticity. Consider mixing in striped straws in red and white, cupcake cases that match the theme. Let the table linen be in red with white or gold accents. Or if you have a colorful centerpiece, opt for stark white table linen, instead.

Bouquets and floral decorations

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The logical choice would be to choose a bouquet of red roses and have more of them throughout the décor. However, if you don’t want to limit yourself to reds and greens, you may like to consider colors like plum, purple and berry colors. A bouquet with berries alongside flowers would look fantastic, and perfectly Christmas-y! Add lavish doses of green into your floral décor and bouquets, and it will look more refreshing.

Festive wedding accessories

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A flower crown would be festive and interesting. Or you could add tiny roses into your hairdo, and match the festive atmosphere with bright gold accessories. Add colors like berry or scarlet red into your makeup, or through your accessories to make sure you match the theme that’s going on. Skip the French manicure and do your nails in bright red. You could also consider a contrast waistband or deep red shoes for a pop of color.

Misty cool wedding dress

Choose a wedding dress that is snowy and exudes the holiday feel. Dresses with layers of misty tulle or with frothy ruffles would help you nail it. The other option is to dress yourself up in a vintage lace gown, complete with full sleeves and a high collar.

Bridesmaids in vibrant holiday colors

Experiment with reds, purples, green, silver and gold for your bridesmaids dresses. Marsala, which is the color of the year, would also be a great choice. If your wedding is in the winter, make sure you choose long gowns or find warm footwear, so your girls feel cozy. For dark dress shades, do the bouquets in white for a welcome contrast.

Make your pick from the best bridesmaids dresses and wedding dresses for your holiday wedding from our collection at Best for Bride. Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping!