8 Hot Winter Wedding Trends for 2015

A clean color palette of wintry whites and soft ivories looks sophisticated and glamorous when contrasted with natural elements. Eucalyptus garlands, full foliage arrangements and lush blooms create a refined feel.

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Including a jewel-toned contrast color (think: sapphire or violet). The deep hue will make a statement and add serious definition to flowers and décor.

White wedding cakes with clean lines and minimalist designs are elevated with floral accents (like an oversize topper or middle-tier arrangement) and glamorous gold embellishments (a foil applique or hand-painted metallic color). Colder temperatures mean you can indulge in richer flavors that might seem too heavy in the warmer months, like caramel spice or chocolate ganache.

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Styled cake stands and gorgeous presentations are musts for any season. In winter, we’re talking a tree ring cake stand finished with fresh evergreen branches or a Lucite platform filled with sparkly silver ornaments.

Winter is the season for layering. Billowing table linens soften hard lines and add visual interest to a landscape of tables and chairs. The combination of floor-to-ceiling fabrics can transform a plain venue into a totally cozy, customized space.
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Make the space even more inviting with mood lighting—a few strands of bistro lights or a spread of tall taper candles go a long way in creating a charming ambience.

Full white or ivory flowers accented with lots of greens are hot for winter. For a soft look, go for dusty sage lamb’s ear (the leaves feel velvety) or silvery dusty miller. For a more rustic style, ask your florist to use ferns or evergreen.

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Wintertime calls for branches. Some of our favorites include curly willow, eucalyptus (it smells great) and pepper berries. They’re all seasonal and will add dimension to even the simplest arrangements.

Nature is the big inspiration for wedding invitations this season. From garland motifs to rugged-looking, totally mesmerizing strokes of calligraphy.

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Stand-out stamps. Whether it’s adding a picture, custom illustration or finding vintage postage within your wedding color palette, stamps are another opportunity to add personalized style to your suite.

Comfort foods are popular year-round, but something about winter makes them taste even better. For your menu, consider your favorites—like grilled cheese and tomato soup, chicken and waffles (a Southern staple) or a sweet bite like individual pies. You could even serve a warm cheese course before dinner or with the cake. (Think: baked Brie with dried cranberries paired with a citrus mulled wine.)

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Hot cocoa bars are popular for winter weddings. Put a personalized touch on your cocktails with calligraphed drink sleeves, and don’t forget the gourmet marshmallows and peppermint-stick stirrers. Or, warm guests up with a warm cocktail like bourbon-based hot toddies or a spiced apple cider.

‘Tis the season for shimmer and shine, and bridesmaid dresses are no exception. If you’re going the mismatched dress route, a subtle sparkle in each dress will help add a sense of coordination.

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Keep the shine going strong with metallic and neutral hues like champagne or pewter. These colors allow the sequins and beading to take center stage, plus, they’re flattering on multiple skin tones.

Whether you want your hair pulled up and out of the way, or a relaxed half-up, half-down look, braiding is the way to go for winter. Get creative with hair accessories like a glitzy headband, haircomb or flower crown.

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Wine-colored beauty products are inspiring dark, moody looks (think: matte nail polish, velvety lipstick or berry-kissed cheeks).