A winter wedding in Canada can be charming and marvellous. From a world blanketed in white snow, to the cozy feelings of being together. There’s nothing quite like a Canadian winter. Selecting an off-season date also has it’s benefits (read about it in our blog post here). We find that Canadians feel only one of two ways about our winters: they either detest them or absolutely adore them. If you’re part of the latter, you may envision your day as a Winter Wonderland. And, if you are considering a winter wedding in Canada, here are our top Do’s and Don’ts!
DO HAVE A SNOWLESS BACKUP PLAN
Fluffy white snow gently falling is always part of the winter wedding in Canada vision. However, it’s not always the case. Make sure you have an indoor location prepared for photographs!
DON’T FORGET TO DRESS FOR THE WEATHER
This goes primarily for the bride and bridesmaids. While strapless or thin strapped dresses may be beautiful, if you’re bride or bridesmaids are practically blue in colour they’ll also be feeling pretty blue. Think ahead to shawls, faux fur jackets, and most importantly footwear. No one will be able to tell that you’re wearing a warm pair of boots under those long dresses! Undoubtedly, the groom and groomsmen will stay warmer thanks to their suits/tuxedos!
DO A FIRST LOOK!
Here’s why. We know that a first look isn’t for everyone, but light is limited in Winter. If you opt for a first look, you’ll most likely get at least a few photos in daylight of the bride and groom. As the day carries on you may not have as much light as days are shorter in the winter. While glowing light can be stunning and set a romantic mood, depending on the timing of your ceremony and reception it’s worth a second thought.
DON’T CREATE A TIGHT DAY OF SCHEDULE
This one is crucial! Leave enough buffer time between getting ready, the ceremony, photographs and the reception. Indeed winter weather is anything but predictable. It doesn’t take much in the winter months for uneasy driving, terrible conditions and traffic. Something to consider for the wedding party and guests alike.
DO MAKE SURE YOUR SPACE IS HEATED/TEMPERATURE APPROPRIATE
Depending on the location of your weather don’t forget that temperature is important. If you have an indoor venue, ensure the temperature isn’t too hot. Once guests have arrived and the party has started, things will heat up! On the other hand if you’re opting for any outdoor activities, prepare for the cold and have a contingency plan for temperature ranges.
DON’T FEEL LIKE YOU NEED TO GO TRADITIONAL ON COLOURS
Winter weddings tend to stay fairly traditional in regards to colour schemes and palettes. Especially, around the holidays you’ll see plenty of greens, reds and golds. Nevertheless, it’s your big day! Choose a scheme that compliments the season all while staying true to you and your style. Take a look at our Pinterest Boards for inspiration!
DO BRING MOISTURIZER AND POCKET HEATING PADS
Last but certainly not least, pack some heat and moisturizer. You won’t regret it. No one wants to look back on wedding photos to see dry and cracked hands. As for the pocket heating pads, they’re inexpensive but they’ll feel like gold on a cold winter’s day.
If you have your sights set on a winter wedding then we invite you to take a look at our Portfolio where you can see why you’ll soon be checking off Wedding Photographers from your To-Do List.
