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5 Winter Honeymoon Destinations

July 4, 2022 | kailey

Image by Jessica Amber

There’s no one size fits all honeymoon. And while many couples dream of a tropical getaway, this isn’t the case for all newlyweds. If sipping cocktails on the beach doesn’t appeal to you, trade the traditional seaside destination for a romantic winter wonderland. Think getting cozy under blankets, warming up by the fire, or hitting the slopes. No matter what’s packed into your itinerary, there are plenty of locations around the world that’ll warm you up to the idea of a winter honeymoon. 

If you’re ready to ditch the sun and the sea for a chilly, snow-filled getaway, these top winter honeymoon destinations are calling your name. 

1. Edinburgh, Scotland 

A honeymoon in the city or an idyllic countryside? Edinburgh, Scotland is the best of both worlds. You can soak up the rich culture, try authentic Scottish cuisine, and even taste test their famous local whiskeys in the town center. Add an extra bit of romance to your stroll down the cobbled streets by scheduling a tour of the historic Edinburgh Castle, followed by watching the sunset on Calton Hill

Just a short drive outside of the city, you’ll be met with some of the most picturesque highland towns, hikes, and natural waterfalls. It’s the perfect destination for adventurous couples looking to do it all.  

Image by Alex Mabrey.

2. Lucerne, Switzerland 

We’re giving Lucerne, Switzerland the “most romantic vacation destination” award—making it the perfect spot for honeymooners. Being one of the largest cities in Switzerland, it’s rich with culture, enchanting resorts, and of course, the Swiss Alps. 

From their towering snow-capped mountains to the crystal blue glacier waters, this colorful old town is ideal for nature-loving couples. You can take a cozy boat ride on Lake Lucerne, ride on the cog railway to the top of Mount Rigi, or casually stroll the city center, appreciating the medieval architecture. 

3. Breckenridge, Colorado, United States 

This historic mining town has quickly become one of the top ski towns in the United States. If you’re dreaming of a chilly getaway with a slower pace, trade Denver for Breckenridge—a small ski town that’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. 

With the highest snow totals and the highest operating chairlift in North America, Breckenridge Ski Resort is the spot for couples looking to hit the slopes. But, if skiing and snowboarding aren’t on your itinerary, you’re still in luck.  It has many alternatives that make this winter wonderland the perfect winter honeymoon destination. You can go shopping down the historic main street, rent snowmobiles, go dog-sledding, or even take an art course in their Art District

Image by Jessica Amber

4. South Lake Tahoe, California, United States 

With luxurious mountain resorts, crystal blue lakes, and a list of never-ending things to do, it goes without saying that Lake Tahoe is a prime honeymoon destination. Nestled on the border of California and Nevada, this winter getaway location has it all. 

Take a sailing cruise or a private boat charter on the crystal blue Lake Tahoe waters. If you’re looking to take your love to new heights, schedule a helicopter tour or hit the slopes for an all-day skiing adventure. For our ultimate outdoor-loving couples, take the two-and-a-half-hour drive to the Yosemite National Park or soak in one of their natural hot springs like the Grover Hot Springs

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

Northern lights, black-sand beaches, and natural glacier tours—sign us up for a wildly romantic honeymoon in Reykjavik, Iceland. With no shortage of things to do or see, this winter destination can be as opulent or as outdoorsy as you’d like. Take a dip in one of the 25 wonders of the world, the Blue Lagoon. You can also head south towards Reynisdrangar—one of the largest black sand beaches—or spend your time hunting down the Northern Lights. 

Image by Lauren Casino.

5. Banff, Canada 

Finding words that do the beauty of Banff, Canada justice is a tough task. Being the perfect blend of outdoorsy and relaxingly romantic, it’s the honeymoon destination. For those audacious explorers, check out Banff National Park. Surrounded by towering snowy mountains, the crystal blue waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake should also be added to your must-visit list. 

For couples that didn’t bother packing their hiking boots, spice things up with a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, schedule a spa day at the Willow Stream Spa, or take a gondola ride to experience 360 views of the Canadian Rockies. 

You’ve picked a location, now the real planning begins. Before creating your dream honeymoon itinerary, start by booking one of our favorite Airbnb honeymoon homes. Then, it’s time to get packing.

Image by Maya Lora Photo.

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36 Cute Wedding Boots for Fall and Winter Brides

June 11, 2022 | riley

Image by Radu Benjamin. See more of this real wedding here.

Snakeskin, leather, and suede–oh my! We’re huge fans of fall and winter brides rocking booties with their wedding dresses, but we know that it can be intimidating. Which is why we’re here to help you nail the look. Whether you’re searching for western, glam, or adventurous weather-proof styles, our roundup of 36 cute wedding boots is the only resource you need to keep cold feet away on your big day.

Neutral Wedding Boots

Neutral boots are going to be the easiest out of all trends to wear with a traditional wedding gown or jumpsuit. Whether you’re looking for a rhinestone-studded pair that will have you feeling like a rockstar or an understated pair of white cowboy boots, these natural wedding boots will go with absolutely every bridal look.

1. Steve Madden Howler Bootie ($99.95); 2. RAID Wide Fit Kola Ankle Boots in White ($50); 3. Chinese Laundry Bonnie Crocodile-Embossed Ankle Boots ($99.95); 4. Vegan Ranch Boot ($78); 5. Steve Madden Aquarius Tan Suede ($139.95); 6. Dolce Vita Stormy H2O Waterproof Chelsea Boot ($75); 7. Ulani Heeled Bootie ($113.99); 8. Marc Fisher LTD Jarli ($188); 9. Pentlee Bootie ($89.99)

Black Wedding Boots

Feeling a little edgy? These black wedding boots will contrast perfectly with a white dress for a more non-traditional look. We think they’d look quite stylish with a pantsuit or make for stunning reception shoes to dress the night (comfortably) away in.

1. Steve Madden Howler Bootie ($99.95); 2. RAID Lexus chunky mid heel boots in black ($64); 3. Loeffler Randall Isla Pointy Toe Bootie ($450); 4. Lulus x Matisse Pointed Toe Ankle Booties ($54); 5. Jaye Ankle Bootie ($49.99); 6. Dr. Marten 1460 Combat Boot ($139.99); 7. Dr. Marten Jadon Black Leather 8-Eye Platform Boot ($180); 8. Caslon Miller Water Resistant Chelsea Boot ($99.95); 9. Unisa Marlie II Bootie ($59.99)

Colorful Wedding Boots

We love it when brides go against the grain and add a pop of color. What better way to add some brightness to your special day than a colorful pair of boots? Choose a color that’s special to you or match them to your bouquet for a more cohesive look.

1. Franco Sarto Tina 2 Block Heel Boot ($169); 2. Jaye Ankle Bootie ($49.99); 3. Betsy Johnson Cady Fuchsia ($149); 4. Sam Edelman Codie Suede Booties ($149.99); 5. Lane Boots Saratoga Western Boot ($249.95); 6. Chinese Laundry Erin Bootie ($89.95); 7. Propét Reese Chelsea Boot ($99.95); 8. Codie Ankle Bootie ($170); 9. Franco Sarto Stevie Bootie ($168.95)

Winter Wedding Boots

Last but not least, these winter wedding boots are perfect for the adventurous bride looking to scale the mountains. Whether you’re eloping on the top of the Alps or tying the knot in the middle of a snowstorm, these boots are not only cute, but they’ll keep you nice and warm.

  1. UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Boot ($249.95); 2. Timberland Kinsley Boot ($109); 3. Redrock Women’s Ankle Boots ($24); 4. Kamik Sienna 2 Boot ($119.95); 5. Sorel Caribou ($170); 6. Cliffs by White Mountain Hallett Snow Boot ($59.99); 7. Marc Fisher LTD Izzie Genuine Shearling Lace-Up Boot ($259); 8. Hunt Pac Deluxe Boot ($119); 9. Sorel Whitney™ II Short Lace ($120)

Now that you’ve got your dress and wedding boots picked out, it’s time to finish the look off with a jacket and accessories!

Image by Wild Connections Photographer. See more of this real wedding here.

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Stunning and Cozy Winter Wedding Decorations

June 8, 2022 | kailey

Image by Maggie Grace Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

Winter weddings are highly underrated. In fact, winter is actually one of the dreamiest seasons to tie the knot. With chilly weather, seasonal blooms, and holiday-themed decorations, a wintertime celebration is the perfect excuse to incorporate cozy, show-stopping details ideal for those cooler months.

If you’re ready to trade your sweltering summer soirée for chilly winter nuptials, let the planning begin. Keep scrolling for cozy winter wedding decorations that add warmth and personality to even the coldest celebrations. 

A Moody Color Palette

Creating a mood board is one of the top ways to kickstart your wedding planning process. This means it’s time to think about your desired theme, style, and color palette. These are  important because they will influence every decision you make moving forward. 

With various shades of  rich reds, forest greens, and deep blues that beautifully represent winter, putting together a color palette can be difficult. If you’re still not sure where to start, check out these winter wedding color palette ideas

Winter Wedding Decorations

Twinkle Lights And Candles 

Wedding lighting is a finishing decor detail that helps set the overall mood on your big day. To create a cozy atmosphere inside your venue, consider incorporating fairy lights and candles—a stunning, cost-effective way to light up any space. You can drape twinkle lights over your outdoor reception space, and use candles to dress the ceremony aisle or even your reception tables.

Images by Laura Zorman. See more of this styled shoot here.

Winter Wedding Wreaths And Seasonal Blooms

Florals are one of the biggest decor elements of a wedding—yes, winter weddings included. Wreaths are a popular holiday decor piece that can double as wedding decor. It’s an easy and stylish way to incorporate winter greenery and blooms in both indoor and outdoor celebrations—a truly whimsical touch to your winter affair.

Seasonal Cake Toppers 

Subtle details often make the biggest impact. This rings true for the smallest, often overlooked wedding decor elements like a cake topper. Adding a pop of festivity to your wedding cake design is sure to make your dessert that much sweeter. Think pinecones, seasonal berries, and snowflakes.  

Image by Elle Studios. See more of this real wedding here.

Shop similar: Winter Wedding Cake Topper ($23.82); Three Clear Acrylic Laser Cut Snowflake Cake Toppers ($18); Snowflake Mr & Mrs Wedding Cake Topper ($21.50); Snowflake Cake Topper ($12.75); Metallic Gold Deer Cake Topper ($23.95)

Hot Chocolate Bar 

A tasty treat that keeps your guests warm and doubles as  reception decor—a double win. During your chilly reception, set up a hot chocolate bar packed with marshmallows, candy canes, and all the toppings that’ll keep your guests cozy all night. Decorate your warm-up station with unique signage, wintery florals, and a whole lot of candles. 

Throw Blankets For Guests

Throw blankets are guaranteed to upgrade your winter wedding. Not only do they keep your guests warm, but it’s also an excuse to add yet another personalized detail to the mix. Drape blankets over your ceremony or reception chairs or have them available in a basket for guests to pick up at their own leisure. They’re great wedding favors that your guests are sure to love for years to come.

Faux Fur Details

Your wedding day fashion is all about making a statement and incorporating a faux fur jacket is a wintery way to elevate your look. 

Image by Iskra Photography.See more of this real wedding here.

Celestial Elements

When it comes to wintertime weddings, you’re not bound to holiday-themed decor. Celestial elements also add warmth to any celebration in a stylish and unique way. Think stars, moons, and a whole lot of gold. You can light up your space with star lanterns, add a golden star cake topper, or include a galaxy menu on your place setting. 

From fashion down to table decor, there are various ways to add festive flairs to your wintertime celebration. And while these cozy winter wedding decorations are a great start, there are many details beyond your decor that you’ll need to sort out. 

From your venue style to your portrait location, continue your planning journey by checking out these unique winter wedding ideas that’ll tie up those loose ends.

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Striking Wintery Mount Rainier Micro Wedding

April 20, 2022 | riley

Lukas and Mallori already had their hearts set on their dream wedding location years before getting engaged, and when it came time, they tied the knot exactly where they envisioned they would years prior. From the snow-covered landscapes and enchanting pine forest backdrop to the picture-perfect Longmire Bridge ceremony and cozy cabin reception, this Mount Rainier micro wedding is magical all on its own. 

The couple started the day with a first look, and it was the sweetest way to kick off such a romantic day. The bride had a standout moment in her burgundy wedding dress while the stylish groom donned a light gray suit with a matching deep red tie. Although it was chilly, they wandered around the mountain for a private toast and epic portraits after saying, “I do.”.

Even with the constraints of the pandemic, they managed to pull off an unforgettable and safe weekend-long affair with their closest family and friends. And Junebug member Maggie Grace Photography captured every moment of it. Scroll through for gorgeous winter wedding photos guaranteed to make you swoon!

The Couple:

Mallori and Lukas

The Wedding:

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA

What Led Them To Have A Mount Rainier Micro Wedding

We chose our venue years before we were engaged. We were on a snowshoeing hike when we came across the bridge. At that moment, I turned to Lukas and told him this was where we would get married. 

Having All Their Guests Tested So They Could Enjoy Their Wedding Weekend Without Worry

We are most proud that we had a very intimate wedding weekend in the middle of the pandemic and that we kept everyone safe and healthy. Our wedding was before vaccines, so we had everyone get tested. Because of this, we were able to provide a weekend full of laughter, hugs, and connection for the first time in what felt like an eternity.

Ways They Personalized Their Ceremony

We personalized our ceremony by walking down the aisle together. We also asked Lukas’s dad to be our officiant and wrote our own vows and spoke them to one another. And lastly, our ceremony was only about ten minutes in total.

A Surprise Stop By A Park Ranger Before The Ceremony

Our one wedding day surprise was when we got stopped by a park ranger in the middle of our ceremony. He asked for our permit, which we had, but told us the permit shouldn’t have been approved because we were technically on a public roadway. He let us continue with our ceremony, but it was a good thing that our ceremony and vows only lasted ten minutes.

Junebug Member Maggie Grace Photography Instantly Put Them At Ease 

Our photographer Maggie Grace was amazing. We had connected via Instagram years ago and became internet besties. On the first night of our wedding weekend, when our friends and family were meeting for the first time, Maggie was playing games and hanging out with all of us. Everyone thought that Maggie had been a lifelong friend they’d just not met yet, but it was actually our first time meeting Maggie too. That’s who Maggie is–the warmest best-friend-energy and your biggest hype woman. Working with her was natural and easy. She gave us direction while also letting us act how we naturally act. It resulted in natural, beautiful, authentic images that we will adore forever.

Wedding Planning Advice From The Newlyweds: Focus On What’s Important To The Two Of You

Don’t worry about convention and tradition when planning your wedding. Create an environment and an atmosphere that you are going to enjoy. Worry more about what it feels like rather than what it looks like. We are so proud of ourselves for sticking to our vision. For us, it was a weekend-long experience with our friends and family in the mountains, everything else didn’t matter that much.  Our guests have all said what a unique and awesome experience it was.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Maggie Grace Photographer
Venue – Mount Rainier National Park
Floral Design – Capital Blooms
Wedding Dress – BHLDN
Rings – Valerie Madison

 

Congratulations to Lukas and Mallori on their striking wintery Mount Rainier micro wedding. And a special thank you to Junebug member Maggie Grace Photography for capturing every special moment and happy memory of the best day of their lives. To see more of her talent, check out her profile in our directory of brilliant photographers from around the world.

If you and your partner are an unconventional couple like Lukas and Mallori, then an alternative wedding venue like this one might be right for you. No matter what the season, a national park wedding is perfect if you want an epic wedding day and even more epic photos to prove it. From incredible glacial lakes to beautiful mountain peaks, find the perfect spot for your intimate wedding with our guide of the prettiest national parks!

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Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses for Fall and Winter Brides

March 21, 2022 | kailey

Image by Fotomagoria. See more of this styled shoot here.

Fall and winter brides have a tough choice when it comes to their wedding day outfit—warm or stylish? Newsflash, you can have both! If you find yourself in the same situation, long sleeves are the way to go. A long-sleeve wedding dress—or jumpsuit—keeps you warm but also makes for a unique stylistic element that adds some dramatic flair to your big day. 

Keep scrolling for a roundup of long sleeve wedding dresses that’ll capture the eyes of your guests and light up every room you enter. 

Puffy Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses

1.Willowby by Watters Cameron Gown ($1,298); La Lune Balloon Sleeve Open Back Maxi Dress ($739); REVOLVE Willow Gown ($786); Catherine Deane Uno Topper ($395.00)

Short Dress, Long Sleeves

Reformation Isaac Dress ($298); Odessa Long Sleeve Cocktail Dress ($495); Melody Long Balloon Sleeve Cocktail Midi Dress ($450); HUISHAN ZHANG Reign feather-trimmed crepe mini dress ($2,845)

Minimalistic Long Sleeve Wedding Gowns

Reformation Briarwood Dress ($598); Off-Shoulder Button Back Plus Size Wedding Dress ($499.99); Feeling of Forever White Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress ($99); Tadashi Shoji Maven Gown ($895)

Mesh and Lace Long Sleeve Dresses

Illusion Sleeve High Neck Plus Size Wedding Dress ($244.99); BHLDN Isla Gown ($1,795); Tadashi Shoji Cedar Gown ($750); Romance Dreamer White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress ($109)

Long Sleeve Jumpsuits And Pantsuits

We’re seeing more and more soon-to-be newlyweds choosing jumpsuits and pantsuits over the traditional white wedding dresses. And if you’re in search of the perfect outfit for your unique “I do’s,” these bridal alternatives are for you!

Image by Loop Studios. See more of this real wedding here.

 

When it comes to wedding day fashion, there are many cozy fall and winter wedding ideas you can incorporate for a unique and special celebration. And now that you’ve selected the long sleeve wedding dress of your dreams, it’s time to complete your ensemble. Warm up your wedding look with these personalized jackets that make getting hitched in chilly weather totally worth it!

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Magical Big Husky Lodge Winter Wedding

November 14, 2021 | kailey

Bonnie and Jen wanted a nontraditional day that authentically represented their love for family, furry friends, and each other. And from the unique fur fashion to the evening fire display, that’s exactly what they got. By dropping all traditional expectations they were able to prioritize the wedding day elements that were important to them. 

Big Husky Lodge—a cozy holiday rental in Scotland—was the perfect small, intimate wedding location. It allowed the couple to fully personalize the space and incorporate meaningful DIY decor. This included the bouquet flowers made from book pages and the handmade centerpieces that doubled as thank you gifts at the end of the night. 

Junebug member and photographer Nikki Leadbetter Photography beautifully captured images that prove a wedding doesn’t have to be expensive or traditional for it to be show-stopping. If you’re in search of inspiration you haven’t seen plastered all over Pinterest, look no further. 

Photographer’s Thoughts On This Big Husky Lodge Wedding

I was so excited to shoot this wedding, as the Big Husky Lodge is such a magical place in the winter months. As we ventured into the woods after the ceremony, it started to snow—creating the most romantic winter wonderland vibe. There were so many special touches in the day, showing that you can create a real sense of individuality without a large budget. The flowers were made out of book pages and Jen put her entire outfit together herself after trawling the internet for inspiration and creative tips and tricks!

The Couple:

Bonnie and Jen

The Wedding:

Boat of Garten, Scotland

Planning A Day Authentically Yours 

The most important part of planning was creating a day that was us. We honored who we are and created something that was right for us, rather than being driven by perceived expectations.  We were worried that no one would enjoy our day but people left telling us it was the best wedding they’d ever experienced. We even had one family member tell us privately that he finally understood same sex marriage—when he saw the love we had for each other, he couldn’t understand why anyone would want to stand in the way.

DIY Details Save Money And Add Personality 

We did a huge amount of DIY projects when it came to the venue decoration. It was just a holiday home that we rented so we did the entire space ourselves. We rented tables and chairs and laid them out around the space, we moved couches, hung fairy lights—you name it! Bonnie also handmade our centerpieces, which were wood and resin lazy susan platters for each table, which became gifts at the end of the wedding. 

 

The Impact Weather Can Have On Your Big Day 

The one thing we were most grateful for was the weather! When we woke up that morning the weather was beautiful with bright blue skies but we were disappointed to see no snow. As we started to get ready, a blizzard blew in. Suddenly the idea of being married outside seemed impossible and we were sadly accepting the reality of Plan B. Just as we decided that we had to get married inside, the snow stopped. The wind died and the clouds drifted away to reveal blue skies. In a matter of moments our outdoor winter dream became a reality and we stepped out into the garden to stand in the stone circle surrounded by our friends and family. We couldn’t have asked for more.

 

 

Prioritize A Photographer In Your Budget 

Whatever the budget, don’t skimp on the wedding photographer and get a videographer too. We were trying so hard to keep costs down because we had so little money to create what we wanted. The photos and the videos will be what stays with you though. These wedding vendors will capture the moments that would otherwise be lost. Invest, interview, and don’t settle. You won’t regret it.

One Venue For Both Your Ceremony And Reception 

We wanted a wedding venue that would create the “amazing house party plus vows” feeling with space for everyone. We also didn’t want to have to move between two venues so we needed one that could accommodate everything we had planned. Big Husky Lodge was beautiful, rustic but high end, spacious enough to accommodate everyone with a perfect garden and stone circle. Add to that, it had “husky” in the name and we were sold!

Working With The Photographer

Nikki Leadbetter Photography  is simply the best we could have possibly asked for. She took the time to completely understand our style and what was important to us. She was so personable that she perfectly fit into our wedding group and she felt like one of the guests. It wouldn’t have been the same day without her.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Nikki Leadbetter Photography
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Big Husky Lodge
Live Music – Tweed Ceilidh Band
Videography – Revolve Films
Makeup Artist – Ampla Vella Hair and Beauty
Hair Styling – Ampla Vella Hair and Beauty 
Parter #1 Outfit – 21st Century Kilts

 

Congratulations to Bonnie and Jen on their nontraditional Big Husky Lodge wedding! And big thanks to Junebug member and photographer Nikki Leadbetter Photography for capturing every unique element of this celebration that made it one for the books. 

If you’re feeling inspired to let go of traditional wedding expectations—much like Bonnie and Jen—we don’t blame you. If this sounds like you, kickstart your planning process by checking out our guide to planning a unique wedding—packed with the top tips for planning a nuptial that’s unlike any other.

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Elegant Winter Wedding With A Disco Ball Ceiling

October 15, 2021 | kailey

Sleek black and white attire, disco balls, and a dramatic reception outfit change—everything about this elegant winter wedding is stunningly epic. With the help of wedding planner Bubbly Events, Cassidy and Keenan we’re able to bring their dream reception to life after an intimate ceremony months before. Talk about the best of both worlds. 

Wrightsville Manor—a historic venue located in North Carolina—created an enchanting atmosphere. It was complete with towering oak trees draped in twinkle lights and a cozy fireplace lined with floral arrangements by Designs by Dillon. To add a pop of color to their black and white fashion, this couple incorporated soft pink and yellow florals in the bouquet, along the fireplace mantle, and on the candle lit reception table

This cozy celebration is packed with inspiration that couples will want to use as influence for their own chilly winter weddings. Don’t believe us? We’ll let these images from The Family Films speak for themselves. But make sure to have your Pinterest boards ready. We guarantee you’ll want to revisit these unique ideas. 

The Couple:

Cassidy and Keenan

The Wedding:

Wilmington, North Carolina

Family Involvement Makes For a Personalized Day 

My brother in law officiated our ceremony and he made it incredibly personal. He’s like a brother to me and very close with my husband so it was an honor to have him up there on our wedding day. We also had my dad do our communion which was an intimate moment to share together. Including our family during our ceremony was really important to us and helped make it feel more personal.

 

 

Watching Your Dream Become A Reality 

We’re proud of the way the design came together. From disco balls to table settings, to the hanging tinsel, to my glitter pant suit—it just felt like us. We knew we wanted disco balls hanging in the clear tent for dancing but worked really hard to pull that detail into the ceremony and dinner while still trying to keep a romantic, elevated feeling. Overall the whole day was so aesthetically pleasing and while attention to detail drove us crazy some days, it paid off on the wedding day. We know weddings are about so much more than the design but watching your vision come to life is so special. Our talented wedding vendors really took our ideas and made it happen. They worked so hard for us and it definitely didn’t go unnoticed.

 

A Postponed Reception That Didn’t Disappoint 

We didn’t really know what to expect for this “second” wedding. We didn’t think anything could top our intimate ceremony in March, but boy were we wrong! The most memorable part of the day was how overwhelming it all was—in a good way. We felt so loved by our friends, family, and vendors. It was really intimate still but we had the time of our lives. Everyone knew everyone and the day was full of emotion. 

 

Working With The Family Films 

Our photographer is so special to us. We consider her family. This was our second wedding because of COVID and in March after we had to postpone everything, we decided to still get married at the beach with our immediate families. Our photographer offered to come in March so that we could have those memories on camera, which meant the world to us. By the time December came around Beks and her sister Anna (our videographer) just felt like family to all of us. Keenan and I felt so comfortable in front of them and their presence is truly such a gift to their couples.

Plan A Day That Authentically Celebrates You 

I think my biggest piece of advice would be have a little fun with it! Don’t be afraid to do something you haven’t seen before. I think people thought I was crazy when I told them my idea, but disco balls brought me joy and my mom and I had so much fun envisioning the day together. It just doesn’t matter what everyone else thinks—if your dream day is disco balls and tinsel (like mine was) then just go for it!

A Surprise That Made This Elegant Winter Wedding Special

Since this was a COVID wedding a lot of our family members couldn’t be there. My sisters surprised us with a slideshow of videos from all of our favorite people who couldn’t be there. They wished us well and toasted with us. There wasn’t a dry eye for that portion of the day. 

Dancing Under The Stars And Disco Balls 

We danced for hours under a clear tent, with these beautiful hanging disco balls. It just felt like a dream. Everyone who was there was simply so happy to be together and were genuinely excited to finally get to celebrate Keenan and me so it felt really special. 

 

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – The Family Films
Event Planning – Bubbly Events
Reception Venue – Wrightsville Manor
Floral Design – Designs by Dillon
Catering – Middle of the Island Catering
Cake – One Belle Bakery
Cotton Candy – Spinning Cotton
Makeup Artist – Dollface by Melissa
Hair Styling – Set Blow Out Bar
Rentals – Party Suppliers and Rentals
Signage – Wholesomely HanMade
Live Painter – Hannah Faith Creations

 

Congratulations to Cassidy and Keenan on their elegant winter wedding. And big thanks to photographer The Family Films for preserving these intimate wedding day moments that’ll be cherished by this couple forever. 

Cassidy and Keenan’s main piece of advice was to not “be afraid to do something you haven’t seen before” and we couldn’t agree more. If you’re wanting a wedding that’s unlike any other, we’re here to help. Kickstart your wedding planning process by checking out this guide for planning a unique wedding.

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Beautifully Blue Backyard Winter Wedding

October 11, 2021 | riley

With winter only a couple of months away, we’re soaking up as much winter wedding inspiration as possible. Ali and Joseph’s beautiful backyard wedding may have been small in size, but it had everything they asked for. From fur shawls to a stunning blue color palette perfect for the season to a decadent s’mores station.

Despite planning a wedding during COVID and having no wedding planner, the two transformed their backyard into a romantic backdrop, perfect for a micro wedding. But they did have some help from their friends and family! The team came together and tackled some serious DIY projects–including the flowers, the wedding lighting, and even the bride’s hair and makeup. 

Photographer Sopheak Smith did an amazing job of capturing how this ordinary space was converted into the perfect venue for the laid back couple. If you’re searching for creative ways to turn your own backyard into your dream venue, then keep scrolling!

The Couple:

Ali and Joseph

The Wedding:

Tulsa, Oklahoma, US

Simple Vibes At This Beautifully Blue Backyard Winter Wedding

Our backyard wedding was an eclectic boho chic blend of COVID-friendliness, child-proofness, convenience, whimsy, and low-stress beauty. As it was the second wedding for both of us, our main focus was our seven children becoming family with us. We transplanted a flowerbed, installed fence panels we found on Facebook marketplace, hung a lot of lights, ordered flowers online, and incorporated a lot of personal touches.

 

 

DIYing The Decor And Flowers

The florist–Joseph’s sister–could not come due to COVID, so my Matron of Honor stepped in to arrange the flowers and blew me away. Also, it became my Herculean task to hang lights around the backyard leading up to the wedding. I had attempted to hang–and ended up bursting many strands–of lights. The morning of the wedding, I asked my neighbor if we could bum some electricity from his outlet, and then realized we would have to rehang all the lights the opposite direction. I had to get ready, so I asked Joseph if he could do it and–amidst everything else he was doing–he didn’t even hesitate. He and a groomsman created the perfect ambiance for our post-sunset celebration. 

A Team Effort For The Bride’s Look

I love both a classy and earthy style. I ordered the dress online because I loved the look and shape, and I had a tailor add material under the lace because when it came in, it was see-through! I looked like a mermaid and it turned out perfect. I made the faux-fur wraps for the girls and myself because it was a winter outdoor wedding and we needed something warm. One of Joseph’s sisters is a hair stylist and took my naturally wavy hair to another level. And my Matron of Honor created my hair piece with hot glue and leftover flowers about 20-minutes before the ceremony began. I did my own makeup and had to send my sister-in-law to purchase some waterproof mascara for me since I figured I’d need it.

A Wide Selection Of Tasty Foods

Joseph is a taco enthusiast and his friend and business partner catered our reception with amazing tacos from his local restaurant. I own a business making locally-sourced bone broth, and we served it at the wedding, which was perfect for the cooler temperatures. Along with the wedding cake from Ludger’s, our groom’s cake was a cinnamon roll “cake” prepared by the owner of Missy’s Bakery–my family friend (who incidentally was also Joseph’s first boss)–and assembled by my mom. We also had a s’more station around a fire pit that was the kids’ favorite feature.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Sopheak Smith
Catering – Taqueria Escondido
Cake – Ludger’s Bavarian Bakery
Officiant – Shane Hatfield
Invitation Design – Templett
Rentals – ABCO Rentals

 

Congratulations again to Ali and Joseph on their blue backyard winter wedding. And big thank you to Sopheak Smith for capturing the beauty of the day. To nail your own backyard wedding planning, be sure to check out our ultimate guide!

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Luxuriously Opulent Switzerland Winter Wedding

October 9, 2021 | riley

We’re dreaming of the snowy winter days ahead and weddings like Mélanie & François’ opulent Switzerland winter wedding has us ready to break out our skis and snowboards. The couple–who have always had a love for winter sports and the Swiss Mountains–knew that when it came time to tie the knot, it had to be at The Chedi Andermatt.

With the help of Junebug member and planner All You Need About, the two exchanged vows in front of the hotel’s fireplace for a cozy, intimate ceremony that was the epitome of winter. Even the floor looked like it was covered in fresh powder. All of these details paired beautifully with the carefully curated white and baby blue dried florals that made up the backdrop.

They then took portraits on ice skates with their photographer, Jessica Amber. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that! So keep scrolling if you’re looking for icy inspo because this one’s love at frost sight.

The Couple:

Mélanie & François

The Wedding:

The Chedi Andermatt, Andermatt, Switzerland

Memorable Wedding Moments

The first memorable aspect was the location. For those who have never been to the Chedi in Andermatt, Switzerland, it is a cocoon of softness and calm nestled in the middle of a landscape shimmering with white. Our second most memorable moment was the “pre-wedding” evening with our closest friends and family in the hotel bar. The relaxed atmosphere, the delicious cocktails, the laughter, the sharing, and the wonderful emotions made it a memory engraved forever in our minds.

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Recommended Reading: Ultimate Guide to Planning A Destination Wedding

Choosing To Host A Switzerland Winter Wedding

We love the Swiss Mountains and everything that goes around it–skiing, hiking, and the calmness of nature. It was the natural choice for our wedding venue.

Recommended Reading: Jaw-Dropping Winter Wedding Destinations Around The World

 

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Jessica Amber
Event Planning – All You Need About
Venue – The Chedi Andermatt

 

Congratulations again to Mélanie & François on their Switzerland winter wedding! Big thank you to Junebug member and planner All You Need About for making this magical day come to life. And thank you to Jessica Amber for capturing every detail of the snowy affair. If you’re looking for a planner in Switzerland, check out All You Need About’s profile in our directory of wedding planners around the world

And be sure to check out these other jaw-dropping winter wedding destinations around the world!

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5 Unique Winter Wedding Ideas

August 11, 2021 | morgan

 

image provided by Amulet Weddings and Events

When most couples picture winter weddings they think of icy landscapes, big fluffy coats, and warm drinks by the fire. While those fairytale conditions make for perfectly romantic wedding ceremonies, they aren’t the only options available. Hosting a unique winter wedding is easier than it sounds with these ideas.

1. Change Up Venues For Indoor and Outdoor Moments

Keeping your wedding guests cooped up indoors or outdoors in these stunning settings won’t do you any good. Plan a mixture of outdoor and indoor activities throughout the day to keep your guests engaged—and moving! We love the idea of hosting your cocktail hour as a warm welcome indoors, then moving your ceremony outdoors before heading inside for dancing and dinner. Of course, our Junebug members had great tips for activities and how to change up the locations.

Winter weddings are stunning but that doesn’t mean the weather always cooperates. If the temperature is dropping, don’t be afraid to move the party inside. You can still keep the outdoors feel by surrounding your indoor venue with sheer white tent drapings, elaborate greenery, and even candles or an indoor fire pit for extra warmth.Nikk Nguyen, Junebug photographer

Have a snowball fight on your wedding day! It’s fun, it breaks up the stress of the day, and—bonus—it’s an awesome way to decide who gets the wedding cake smashed in their face later in the evening. If you’re not into real snowballs, opt for fake snowballs instead.Adrian Steinbach Photography, Junebug photographer

Take Your Wedding Portraits Outdoors

Embrace the weather of the season for your wedding portraits. Find some local decorated spaces for your images and don’t be afraid to break out the snow boots or get a little wet!Zac Wolf Photography

2. Decorate With Winter Elements

Winter weddings typically have a certain look, for good reason. It can be difficult to get florals and other decor elements that grow in warmer months. Instead of trying to fight for hard-to-get florals, try utilizing cotton, pinecones, dried florals, and other winter-friendly options. If you’re unsure about how to decorate a winter wedding, look no further than tips from our Junebug members. 

Pair off your place cards with pinecones. You can decorate them to match the theme of your wedding, add some sparkle, or leave them bare for a more natural look.Nikk Nguyen, Junebug photographer

Lean Into Classy Christmas Trees

Even if you don’t want to theme your wedding around the season, some seasonal elements can make beautiful additions and will be kinder on your wedding budget. Fairylights on a Christmas tree, for example, can be used at its most minimal look to bring the outdoors in, or go full glam and decorate it to the brim within your colour scheme. Christmas tree decorations are typically cheaper than a floral arrangement of the same size. Or use one to display escort cards/place names as a feature.Revelry Events, Junebug planner

3. Add Warm Drinks To Your Bar And Events

Keep warm drinks available at all times for your unique winter wedding. If guests get chilly, offering a hot chocolate bar or even simple teas throughout the day will keep everyone warm and ready to hit the dance floor. 

Add to your drinks offering something that will keep people warm when they arrive at your cocktail hour. A hot cocktail, maybe something with a little whisky, and ask if you can add a tea and coffee service earlier in the day to keep people warm before the ceremony or dinner.Revelry Events, Junebug planner

Incorporating a hot cocoa bar with the addition of custom marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and wintery mugs will bring plenty of satisfied smiles to go around.Nikk Nguyen, Junebug photographer

image by Jessica Amber | see more of this wedding here

4. Decorate With Warmth In Mind

Speaking of keeping your guests warm, while they are likely to bring their own coats for the winter wedding festivities, make sure that you have backup sources of warmth to keep everyone nice and cozy.

Buy some blankets in bulk and make a little display of them to let guests know they can grab one if they get cold—this is especially useful for older guests. If you booked your venue because of the stunning grounds or outdoor elements, it would be a shame to keep people cooped up indoors. Tempt them outside with fire pits and warm drinks in their bellies.Revelry Events, Junebug planner

5. Consider Unique Winter Wedding Destinations 

Hosting a unique winter wedding can also come down to the location. 

Amulet Weddings And Events Suggests Bold and Unforgettable Activities

If you’re seeking bold, unforgettable activities to make incredible memories with those you love at your wedding celebration, Lapland, Iceland, and Scandanivia has it all. Starting with the famous Aurora Borealis, following it up with husky and reindeer sledding, wild horse riding, ice cave trekking, mountain hikes, and snowmobile expeditions across the stunning scenery. 

There are also opportunities for wildlife safaris to encounter wild orca, humpback, and sperm whales. Or, opt for a drinks reception cruise on the Norwegian Fjords. If you’re feeling more adventurous an expedition to Antarctica for a glacier wedding with penguin guests.  – Amulet Weddings and Events, Junebug planner

image by Henry Tieu | see more of this wedding here

All You Need About Loves Higher Altitude Destinations 

A truly unique winter wedding can take place by going up in altitude for photos and skiing. Meet with your guests for a weekend in a mountain destination. This will also give you the chance to have fresh snow and enjoy this dreamy setting. All You Need About, Junebug planner

Now that you’ve got unique winter wedding ideas ready, it’s time to get your unique wedding planning going! We’ve got the ultimate wedding planning guide to help get you started. 

image by Jessica Amber | see more of this wedding here

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