Are you considering hosting a dreamy winter wedding lakeside? The beautiful setting of having a lake View combined with the stunning backdrop it can offer will surely make it a unique occasion for you and your guests alike. Here’s everything you need to know to host the perfect wedding at the shoreline.
Choose the Right Location
The first step in having a winter wedding is choosing the right location. Many venues and hotels offer packages specifically for winter weddings at the lakefront, making your wedding planning process seamless. Make sure you walk the property and take note of any potential photo locations, catering facilities, and any other services that the venue can offer. Doing so can save you time and effort while organizing the entire event.
Create the Perfect Ambiance
A lakefront wedding in the winter offers the perfect scenery for an intimate setting. Utilize the natural elements of the land and backdrop of the lake to create a rustic yet elegant atmosphere. Consider adding in some colorful elements that tie into the theme and design as well for a unique experience for your guests.
Warm Your Guests Carefully
November and December can be chilly months so make sure you stay well-prepared when hosting a winter wedding. Keep your guests comfortable with a warm beverage of choice, woolen throws, or perhaps a fire pit for guests to warm themselves by. If you want to go a step further, consider preparing a hearty and seasonal menu—this will not only offer guests a culinary treat, but also serve to keep them warm and satisfied throughout the evening.
Choose the Right Color Palette
When choosing a color palette for a winter wedding, try to go with a pallet that consists of warm and natural colors—such as browns, burgundies, and tans. Additionally, integrate some pops of color (such as gold, pale blue, or perhaps even a pastel shade) to lighten up the overall look. By doing so, you can achieve a classic and elegant style that will ensure your special day stands out.
Make Sure the Lighting is Just Right
Great lighting can make or break your wedding reception. The good news is that lighting is relatively easy to adjust and can be used to create the perfect ambiance for a winter wedding at the lake. Consider fairy lights or string lights to help brighten the room, as well as candles to create a romantic setting. Ensure that your lighting fixtures match your overall theme and that there are plenty of lamps and lanterns available to keep the room warm and inviting.
Take Advantage of the Scenery
Whether you’re hosting an outdoor wedding or a wedding indoors with a lakefront setting, take advantage of the natural scenery around you. Depending on the venue you choose, you may have an expansive shoreline, trees, wildlife, or even a dock to use as a backdrop. Spend an afternoon prior to the wedding taking photos to determine the best locations and angles to take advantage of the stunning scenery.
Entertain Your Guests
Winter weddings at the lakefront can be particularly romantic and intimate, so consider incorporating some unique entertainment options for your guests. One great idea is to have a bonfire by the lake with s’mores and hot cocoa—this can serve as a fun and interactive way to enjoy the scenery. Additionally, consider hiring a jazz band or string quartet to play some beautiful background music throughout the evening.
Memorable Photos
A winter wedding at the lakefront offers the perfect backdrop for stunning and memorable photos. Take advantage of the natural scenery and the unique light that a winter sunset offers to capture some beautiful shots. Utilize the
photos in your wedding album as well as for thank you cards and even for personalized wedding favors.
An Enjoyable Day for All
With the perfect setting, beautiful ambiance, delicious food and drinks, memorable entertainment and photos, and the warmth of your friends and family, a winter wedding at the lakefront can be an enjoyable day for all. Now all that’s left for you to do is sit back and enjoy each moment as you become husband and wife. Congratulations!