The holiday season is a magical time for weddings, but it can also be a bit hectic with all the seasonal festivities, travel, and unpredictable weather. If you're planning a wedding in December or around the holidays, here are some last-minute tips to make sure everything runs smoothly and your special day sparkles! Magical Holiday Wedding
1. Prepare for Winter Weather (and Have a Backup Plan!)
Embrace the winter wonderland! A pair of snowshoes can make navigating a snowy aisle both fun and practical.
- Outdoor Wedding? Make sure you have heaters, blankets, and a cozy indoor backup option in case of snow, rain, or extreme cold.
- Transportation Plan: Arrange for extra time in case of weather-related delays, and consider having a shuttle service for guests if there’s snow or ice.
- Vendor Flexibility: Confirm with vendors that they have contingencies for winter weather, like covering flowers or having backup vehicles for transportation.
Wedsure offers Wedding Cancellation and Postponement coverage just in case something unplanned prevents your from holding your wedding on the planned date.
2. Embrace Holiday Decor (and Save Money!)
Many venues come beautifully decorated for the holidays, like this poinsettia-lined staircase, giving your winter wedding a festive, enchanting feel without extra decor costs
- Venues with Built-In Decor: Many venues are already decorated for the holidays, which means you can save on decor costs. Check if you can incorporate or enhance the existing holiday lights, wreaths, and garlands.
- Festive Touches: Think about adding holiday-inspired elements like poinsettias, evergreen branches, candles, and even a hot cocoa or mulled wine station. Small touches can create a warm and inviting winter wonderland.
3. Double-Check Guest Accommodations and Travel Plans
Winter roads can be unpredictable! Remind your guests to plan ahead for possible delays and double-check their travel and accommodations. A little extra preparation can go a long way in ensuring everyone arrives safely.
- Hotel Block Reminders: Many hotels are busy during the holiday season, so confirm your guest block and send a reminder to guests to book rooms early.
- Travel Delays: Remind guests to check for weather-related travel updates, especially if they’re flying in. Consider including emergency contact information for a friend or family member who can help guests with last-minute changes.
4. Choose Seasonal Flowers and Menu Items
Rustic elegance for a winter wedding. This bouquet combines pinecones and pine sprigs—perfect for a cozy, seasonal vibe
- Seasonal Bouquets: Winter florals like holly, pinecones, and red roses add a festive touch. Ask your florist for seasonal options to avoid high costs associated with out-of-season blooms.
- Holiday Menu: Work with your caterer to add holiday-inspired dishes or drinks, like roasted vegetables, cranberry-stuffed meats, or spiced cocktails. This can add warmth and flavor to your celebration.
5. Plan for Cozy, Stylish Attire
Embrace the snow with warm layers, boots, and a touch of faux fur to stay comfortable and chic for those outdoor photos.
- Wedding Couple: Consider layering up! A faux fur wrap, velvet jacket, or winter boots (for outdoor photos) can keep you comfortable without sacrificing style.
- Wedding Party: Let your bridesmaids and/or groomsmen know if they’ll need extra warmth for outdoor photos or travel between venues. Matching scarves, shawls, or gloves can add a cute, coordinated winter touch.
6. Prepare for Extra Busy Vendors
A quick follow-up with your vendors can make all the difference during the busy holiday season.
- Follow Up Regularly: The holidays are a busy time for everyone, including your vendors. Double-check timelines and follow up with each vendor to confirm details, especially if they’re juggling multiple events.
- Have Contact Info on Hand: Make sure you have contact information for all vendors on the day of the wedding in case of any last-minute hiccups. An organized contact sheet can help things run smoothly.
7. Set Expectations for a Festive Atmosphere (or Not)
Holiday spirit can mean different things to different people. Make sure your vendors know exactly how festive you want the vibe—from a subtle winter theme to a DJ dressed as Santa!
- Holiday Music or Classic Tunes? Decide if you want a holiday-themed playlist or prefer classic wedding music. Let your DJ or band know ahead of time.
- Avoid Over-The-Top Festivities: If you want a subtle holiday vibe, communicate that with your decor team and vendors. There’s a fine line between festive and overly Christmas-y!
8. Give Thoughtful, Seasonal Favors
Nothing says winter wedding like warm drink favors! Treat your guests to jars of hot chocolate and holiday spice tea for a sweet send-off.
- Winter-Themed Favors: Send guests home with mini jars of hot chocolate mix, holiday cookies, or small ornaments. Seasonal favors can be budget-friendly and appreciated!
- Donation in Lieu of Favors: Consider donating to a local charity in your guests’ honor, especially during the season of giving. A holiday card at each place setting explaining the donation can be a beautiful touch.
9. Purchase Wedding Insurance to insure the unexpected
Liability insurance for hosts and vendors covers the unexpected—keeping your day focused on celebration, not complications.
- Winter Weather Coverage: With unpredictable winter conditions, wedding cancellation insurance can be a lifesaver if severe weather forces you to reschedule. Cancellation and postponement insurance not only protects you in case of inclement weather but also covers situations where an essential member of the wedding party gets injured or your fiancé gets unexpectedly deployed. This valuable coverage safeguards your deposits with venues and vendors, allowing you the flexibility to reschedule without facing major financial losses.
- Wedding Liability is essential: Whether you’re hosting your wedding at a venue or in a relative’s backyard, Wedding Liability insurance is essential. It protects the host from potential risks, such as a guest accidentally getting injured or damage to property. Quote & Buy Wedsure Wedding Insurance Online and Get Instant Proof of Insurance.
- Vendor Coverage: Confirm that all your vendors have their own liability insurance. This way, you won’t be responsible for property damage or injuries that might result from a vendor’s actions. Having insured vendors adds an extra layer of protection, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.
10. Remember to Relax and Embrace the Season’s Magic
Tables filled with candlelight, fairy lights, and winter greenery create a cozy, enchanting ambiance—perfect for capturing the season’s magic.
- Enjoy the Holiday Glow: There’s something uniquely magical about a December wedding—the natural decor of the season, the warmth of candlelight, and the twinkling of holiday lights. Let these elements add to the beauty of your day, knowing that every moment will feel just a little more enchanting in this festive time of year.
- Celebrate the Season’s Joy: The holiday season is a time for warmth, love, and togetherness. Let the spirit of the season enhance your wedding day. Focus on the joy of gathering with loved ones, and don’t stress over the little things—what matters most is celebrating your love surrounded by family and friends.
A holiday or December wedding can be incredibly magical, full of warmth and seasonal charm. With these last-minute tips, you’ll be ready to handle any surprises while making the most of the festive season. Cheers to a memorable and joyful wedding day!
