Snowbound brides are in vogue this season, for sheer necessity if nothing else. Winter storms have meant school closures, road closures, and towns buried under feet of snow - unfortunately, Mother Nature failed to take into account your wedding date. If you're finding yourself gathering your nearest and dearest to you in the midst of a nasty blizzard, don't fret, this winter wedding is survivable. Here are some challenges to keep in mind as you near the date of your winter wedding, and ways to face them.
1. If snow is expected the day of your ceremony (especially if you're having a destination wedding), consider handing out umbrellas to guests to keep them from getting snow-soaked. They'll appreciate your thinking ahead, and you won't end up with a wet wedding party.
2. Suggest snow chains, or if you can afford it, hire drivers to chauffeur your guests from their homes/the hotel to the wedding venue. Winter driving in blizzards can be dangerous, and while your wedding is certainly worth everyone's attendance, it's not worth your loved ones getting into a car accident.
3. Better even than offering everyone a driver, keep them out of inclement weather altogether by hosting your wedding in a nice hotel where everyone can stay. The commute from the elevator to the ballroom will be much easier to undertake in heels than even a walk from the car to the wedding hall.
4. Let this be the wedding of snow boots instead of stilettos - bridesmaids insistent on Manolos would do well to keep in mind that snow-covered ground easily disguises mud, grates, random trash and other debris that can be dangerous to those who totter along in high heels.
5. You've probably scheduled in an outdoor photo session to take advantage of all the pretty snow; just be sure that your barely-dressed bridesmaids don't get frostbite. The best thing to do is spring for heat lamps, or find a venue that has some in a convenient and still attractive place. If you don't want the unattractive metal pole in your wedding photos, it's still nice to have for your wedding party to crowd around to warm up between shots. Better still, dress your wedding party up - permit scarves and thicker jackets for the men, and make sure your bridesmaid's dresses include a pretty matching shawl or fake fur stole.
6. Include all the best elements of winter to outweigh the less fun parts. Your guests will appreciate catering stations for winter classics like hot apple cider and hot chocolate, as well as mulled wine at the bar. If one is available, choose a venue with a fireplace for authentic winter warmth, and fill your reception room with cushy chairs and loveseats for comfort. Your guests have come out from the cold to be with you on your big day - now is the time to remind them of all the best parts of this season as you offer your thanks for coming to all your friends and family.
