I'm so thrilled to introduce to you Kelsey, my dear friend and wedding planner with Kelsey Ann Events. She is a wedding planner located in Hampton Roads, Virginia. I asked her to write a blog for me about planning the perfect winter wedding in Hampton Roads, and she has some amazing venue and décor ideas for brides planning weddings in December, January, and February.
When Maria asked me to write a blog on winter weddings… I was absolutely thrilled! Despite the bad rap that winter gets from most people, I am its biggest fan. In fact, I am finishing up this blog post in the midst of our own “snowpocalapse” and I am loving every second of it! To me- winter is the season for snow, snuggling and staying home. Does it get any better than that? Yes it does- because winter is simply the BEST when you get to experience it with that special someone. Bring all of the best elements of winter to life with an intimate and elegant wedding! The place to start planning is to pick the ideal venue for the occasion…
Venues
Founders Inn and Spa. This gorgeous resort is full of grace and glamour. It’s a garden views are decked with Christmas lights galore and will add some Christmas magic into your wedding atmosphere. It offers an indoor ceremony, cocktail hour and reception space- all of which are in prime locations! Also, this resort can house all of your guest’s comfortably- so no one has to travel after the party! Oh, did I mention that there is a luxurious spa at the resort? You deserve to be pampered before you take that life-changing walk down the aisle!
Fords Colony- If you had your heart set on a sunny, country club wedding but don’t want to break the bank- get married at Ford’s Colony in the winter! Fords colony offers a year-round outdoor-tented reception. That doesn’t sound pleasant in the winter? Well, the tent is enclosed and fully heated! You can still enjoy the marvels of the beautiful Williamsburg golf course without freezing your bridal buns off! It also offers a beautiful ceremony spot in the club, so your guests won’t have to travel during your celebration! Wins all around!
Norfolk Waterside Marriott - If you love the city in the wintertime, this is your venue! The city of Norfolk is filled with traditional charm, and the Marriott is no different! Located right on the Elizabeth River, this hotel is equipped with a grand staircase, chandeliered ballroom and an experienced staff. Again, your guests can take a short walk up the steps to their rooms after the celebration so no travel is required. If you prefer to get married in a church, Norfolk is home to some of the most enchanting city churches that are just a short distance from the hotel. You can have it all at this venue!
Décor and Dining
Jewel Tones
Winter is the perfect time to pair bold hues with softer whites and creams. Also, don’t be afraid to throw in some metallic’s as well- maybe even mix a few DIFFERENT metallic’s together! After all, winter is the season of silver and gold, am I right?
Bold colors to choose from: marsala red, emerald green, safire blue and amethyst purple Metallics: silver, gold, copper and rose gold
Neutrals: snowy whites and creams, London grays, snowflake blues and Birchwood tans
My ideal winter palette: Deep, velvety marsala red, snowy whites and creams with silvers and gold accents. This keeps it simple and elegant but emphasizing the red will make it pop!
Deck the Bar
Make sure a fireplace or bonfire pit is nearby at all times! Use these to keep your guests warm but also mix it up by adding in a s’mores or hot cocoa bar to satisfy the sweet tooth! Ask your bartender to keep the wintery-vibe alive by serving Moscow Mules or Cranberry and Mint Sangria. The bar should also be stocked with festive drink garnishes such as cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs and mint candy canes. Trust me, the way to your guests’ hearts is through their stomach!
Fashion
Winter wedding dresses demand one thing: sophistication. Make this your day to be anything but casual and dress to impress! The word “princess” comes to mind when searching for a winter dress with long sleeves, lace trim, and top it all off with a luxurious fur wrap that hangs off the shoulders. Make your man look equally as stylish by suiting him up in a fitted black or navy tux and a pop-of-color bow tie! Or, if you are going for a more “vintage” look, ask him to put on a dapper tweed suit. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t look ravishing.
So, consider designing your own winter-wonderland wedding! The prices for this wedding “off-season” are always a perk and your vendors will be more available for hire! Park your perfect day right in the middle of everyone’s winter blues and give yourself and your guests something to look forward to! You won’t regret choosing this magical season as the backdrop for your big day!
View more from the Wedding Planning Series:
Planning a Fall Wedding
Planning a Summer Wedding
Planning a Spring Wedding
Hey y'all! My name is Kelsey Ann and I am the owner and lead coordinator of Kelsey Ann Events, LLC! My husband and I grew up all over the world but have settled down in Newport News, Virginia (for the time being). We are both teachers by day and entrepreneurs by night- and we love every second of it! Along with my passion for planning, I have a deep appreciation for European architecture, fluffy flowers, Kate Middleton, traveling, wine, nights in with my husband and anything with stripes! I can't wait to chat with you over coffee- I'll bring my laptop if you'll bring your smile and event dreams!
Winter Wedding Inspiration
Chris + Sarah
Charlottesville
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Newport News
