5 enchanting ideas for a dreamy winter wedding
Are you planning a winter wedding? We've got some big news for you.
Here at Gonville Hotel, we've recently been granted a civil ceremonies licence. This means you can swap 'I dos' right here in our beautiful boutique hotel.
We're sure you're already dreaming up ideas. We certainly are – and, in the spirit of celebration, we thought we'd share a few here.
Keep reading to discover five of our favourite winter wedding ideas, direct from our in-house marriage maestros. And stick around until the end for a personal invitation you won't want to miss.
1. Go cosy
Outdoor weddings in the cold months… They're possible – but they're a gamble. Bear in mind that it rains more in winter than any other month. In the UK, that's saying something.
Our advice? Go cosy. Embrace the indoors. Make hygge your handbook. Let your love weave a big, warm blanket that will make guests feel like they've landed in a snug slice of paradise.
Cosiness is your goal – but there are thousands of ways to get there.
One option: au naturel. You'll be indoors most of the day, so why not invite the outdoors in? We're thinking dried flowers, evergreen sprigs and rustic wooden décor.
Fairy lights are plug-in hygge machines. Choose cascades of twinkling bulbs for a grand yet rustic effect – or drape vintage-style lights with large bulbs to ramp up the nostalgia.
This is just the tip of the snug-berg. How about rows of candles? Or sheepskin throws? Or full-blown chill-out zones, complete with mood lighting and blissful music?
Here at Gonville Hotel, we have several bright indoor wedding spaces that can transform into cosy, intimate dens at the drop of a veil. Just let our in-house wedding coordinator know what you want, and we'll do everything to make it happen.
2. Embrace seasonal food
For most, a winter wedding is all about embracing the best of the season – in the décor you display, the clothes you wear and the food you serve.
And nothing says 'winter' more than hearty, homespun comfort food. Think root veg, tender meats and familiar, nostalgic flavours.
The safe option, of course, is a good old-fashioned roast. But there are countless ways to taste the season. Brussels sprout lollipops with a jammy bacon glaze. Vegetable soups with a hint of winter spice. Light and colourful salads flecked with cranberries, figs or other seasonal fruits.
Again, our in-house wedding coordinator is your friend. While our wedding packages come with sample menus attached, they're just that – samples. Our coordinator will work with you to create a menu that brings your culinary dreams to life. We can't wait for you to taste it.
3. Get on board with the floral dress trend
Some of the latest wedding trends are a little out there. (Ice sculptures, anyone?)
But floral wedding dresses are classic glamour, through and through. This is a trend that anyone can get behind – from staunch traditionalists to catwalk connoisseurs.
The trend has two main strands. The first is all about bold, punchy colours – think hand-painted flowers and 3D appliqué. Great for a summer ceremony, perhaps – or for those who want to break free of seasonal expectations. Not so good for a traditional cool-weather wedding.
The second strand, however, is ideal for the season. Delicate lace flowers and embroidery abound on classic silhouettes. White as frosting – pure as snow. Perfect.
4. Glitz up your colour scheme
Winter wedding colour schemes tend to focus on, well, wintry hues. And for good reason – reds, greens and frosty whites feel as wintry as a woollen scarf and a warm mug of cocoa.
But there's a growing trend for glitzy metallics – and we can't help but love it. It's a great way to add a touch of glamour (and a touch of frost) to a tried-and-true winter palette.
And it couldn't be easier to put it into action. Dreaming of slate greys and evergreens? Add some silver accents – a glittery table runner here, a silver-rimmed platter there – and voila. You've got instant ice-flavoured chic.
Royal blue is another winter classic. Throw in some gold accessories and it will look even more opulent. Or how about creams and greens against handsome copper? Or rich jewel shades with a deep, decadent bronze?
If you've got the germ of an idea, share it with us. We'd love to help you make it happen.
5. Choose flowers that last
Planning a wedding is about sharing a special moment – of course. But it's also about making memories that last forever.
That's one reason why dried flowers are such a great choice for a winter ceremony. Not only do they reflect the crisp, muted hues of the season, but they also last long beyond the big day itself.
And they work everywhere. Brides and bridesmaids can rock dried-flower bouquets bursting with burnt orange and forest greens. Gents can sport dried-flower buttonholes, complete with sprigs of delicate gypsophila. Your venue can wear them, too – think plump dried garlands and wildflower table centrepieces.
When your big day is over, you can take a few home for souvenirs. A dried flower bouquet should last up to three years with proper care.
Say 'I do' to our wedding venue in Cambridge
Ideas like these can make your big day feel even more momentous. But when it comes down to the 'I dos', there are only three essential ingredients for a dreamy winter wedding: you two and a venue.
Yes, the right venue can make all the pieces fit. That's why we're inviting you to tour our stunning wedding venue in Cambridge. Our range of wedding packages are designed to make your special day in Cambridge effortless and unique. Book your showround today at the Gonville Hotel.