Summer Weddings VS Winter Weddings: Things to Consider

Seasonal wedding planning - it can be tricky to know which time of year will best suit your big day. Whether you’re a hot weather fanatic who thrives in the summer months, or you prefer to wrap up warm and toasty while it’s cold outside in winter, here are some key things to consider before taking the plunge and choosing the right season for your wedding.

What do YOU prefer?

Consider your own personal preferences before anyone else. After all, it’s yourself and your partner that matters most on this momentous day for you both!

Think about what time of year you feel most comfortable in terms of temperature and surroundings. Do you hate cold weather and having to be out in it? If so, an outdoor winter wedding isn’t a good idea, but a cosy winter lodge with an open fire could be the perfect venue.

If you’re worried about the possibility of rain dampening your big day, then we suggest opting for a summer wedding as you’re less likely to be faced with bad weather.

Or maybe you feel a bit too hot and bothered in summer? Consider planning your wedding for a cooler month, such as the end of spring or start of autumn.

What’s your desired colour palette?

Have a particular colour theme in mind? Think about how this might work with the typical weather conditions and seasonal colours you might have around you, especially if your wedding is outdoors.

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For example, shades of rust, burgundy, deep purple and chocolate brown can work really well against autumn leaves and early sunsets. Whereas pastel shades look best in spring and summer months. If you’re having a winter wedding, why not play on the element of snow and use icy white and blue tones along with pops of red for that seasonal ‘Christmassy’ feel.

How do you want to look?

Do you have a particular dress, suit, hair or makeup style in mind? Will these work well with the weather conditions you might face at this time of year?

Be sure to take care of your skin for those perfect glowing photos, whatever the weather! SPF will keep your skin radiant throughout summer and lip balm and moisturiser will protect you from harsh winter weather conditions that can dry out your skin.

What will the lighting be like?

Think about the desired look of your venue and how you want this to come across in your wedding pictures. Is your venue quite open with large windows ready to boast plenty of light? Or are you looking for a more moody and glamorous effect so that you can decorate tables with candles and have dimmer lighting?

If you’re wanting sunkissed photos, a summer wedding at a venue with plenty of open space will do just the trick. But if you’re looking for dramatic sunsets or a softer glow, perhaps with some rain for added effect, a winter wedding in a cosy and intimate venue might be a better option.

Do your research and ask photographers to show you examples of their work that they have taken in similar lighting conditions as what you are after. Be sure to book your photographer accordingly, as a photographer who has techniques that work well in daylight might not work as well at dusk.

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Also, make sure to visit your venue ahead of the big day, preferably in the same weather conditions as you hope to have your wedding in, so you can see whether the venue holds up well all things considered - this way, you can ensure that it won’t be too hot or too cold, which could result in an unpleasant experience.

What’s your budget?

Take a look at your list of suppliers and selection of potential venues. Do they have peak periods throughout the year? Are they likely to be busier during warmer or colder times of year due to their style and aesthetic?

Typically, there’s often a much higher demand for summer weddings due to the weather being more pleasant and there being a lot more variety available, in terms of outdoor or indoor options. Be sure to book your venue and suppliers well in advance if you’re planning to have your wedding during a busy season as this can help to reduce costs.

Consider bank holidays and whether these dates will hike up the price due to higher demand. However, a bank holiday can also work in your favour as many of your guests won’t have to be at work the following morning.

You might find that venues are cheaper in low seasons such as autumn and winter, so, if you’re not too fussy about the weather, you might get a better deal and be able to stretch your budget even further. Shopping around is key! Ask suppliers whether their quotes change throughout the year so you can price up a variety of options.

How many guests do you have?

If you want a really big turn out at your wedding, it’s probably best to avoid booking your big day in the heat of summer as many of your guests are likely to be taking their families on holiday during this time. Close to Christmas might be a difficult time to plan for too, as guests might be trying to save their cash after spending money on gifts.

If you’re only wanting close friends and family at your wedding, try asking them if they have any big commitments coming up that could prevent them from attending. One surefire way to stop your guests from bailing is to invite them well in advance so they have the opportunity to arrange time off from work and childcare if needed.

Is there anything that you could theme your big day around?

Consider meaningful dates that have some significance to you and your partner and see whether this would make your wedding extra special.

Could you take advantage of overlapping events? For example, bonfire night could make for some spectacular photos with fireworks in the background. You could even give your guests some sparklers for that extra touch of magic.

Do remember that the day after bonfire night tends to be a little foggy, so perhaps avoid booking this date as your wedding photos might look a little washed out!

What are the plans for after your wedding?

Usually, this element will be at the back of your mind, but it’s important to think about once the big day is over. Where do you go from there?

Where do you plan on honeymooning? Is it somewhere that is best visited at a certain time of year? Not everyone has their honeymoon straight after their wedding, but if you’re planning to get whisked away right after your big day, this is definitely something to consider.

Think about seasonal flowers.

Think about the flowers you’d like in your bouquets and buttonholes, will they be readily available at this time of year or will you be struggling to find them?

Don’t forget about your food and drink options.

Think about your menu and how you can complement it with the season. For example, in winter your guests will be expecting more hearty foods like stews, soups and roast dinners. Whereas in summer, guests will want lighter options like salads that won’t leave them feeling as full. You can apply this theory to your drinks options too! Refreshing cocktails for summer or opt for mulled wine in winter months.

Any important details to add?

There are many small details that can make your big day that extra bit special. However, they might not always be as easy to find at some times of year than others.

Longer summer days are usually much hotter and exhausting than shorter ones, make sure your venue has somewhere for your guests to shelter from the sun and refreshments at the ready throughout the day for your guests to cool themselves down with.

If it’s cold, try incorporating blankets and warm drinks such as mulled wine/cider into your wedding. It will add an extra element of cosiness and encourage guests to come together.

Ready to plan your big day? Check out our list of suppliers for some inspiration. You can find more helpful blog posts here.
Still not sure quite what you’re after? Why not attend one of our upcoming wedding fayres? They’re fun, free to attend, and everyone is welcome, no matter how far along your wedding journey you are!