There’s a wealth of reasons for engaged couples to love the idea of getting married in winter. They can serve comfort foods like macaroni and cheese and soup at the wedding. They’ll likely have their choice of vendors, and there’s also less of a chance that guests will have competing weddings on the same weekend. Winter weddings are unique in the best way. If you just got an invitation to a wedding that’s being held in December, January, or February, here are a few things worth keeping in mind.
Don’t overcommit yourself
The holidays are both incredibly fun and incredibly stressful. If a friend from college asks you to be in her wedding that’s being held two weeks before Christmas, think long and hard about your other holiday obligations before you say yes. It’s better to be upfront and honest about your time commitments rather than take on responsibilities that will require you be in three places at once.
It’s hard to say no to friends. You may feel guilty and anxious at the slightest idea of turning down your close friend who’s been with you since you were both getting an Associate’s Degree in nursing. If your friend cares about you, though, she’ll understand that you can’t drop everything and devote your whole life to being a bridesmaid or maid of honor. If possible, try to find a happy medium. Commit to going dress-shopping if you know the rehearsal dinner conflicts with your family’s Hanukkah get-together. The bride can also have you serve as an usher or have you do a reading during the service, if you’re unable to commit to the full responsibilities of a bridesmaid.
Dress for drama (and warmth)
Winter is often cold and hard, a wedding can be a fun opportunity to liven things up. Dress in a way that is both dramatic and season appropriate. Look for colors that pop and accentuate your best features. If you have blue eyes, look for boutique dresses that will bring out your eyes and make everyone take notice. Consider borrowing a fur or wearing fancy shawl to cover your shoulders in case you want to take a step outside to get fresh air. You don’t want to draw attention away from the bride, but there’s nothing wrong with looking and feeling your best.
Pay attention to the wedding venue when planning your outfit. A wedding held in an ornate Catholic church is going to have a different dress code than a wedding held a country club. It’s important to not disrespect any religious traditions when attending a wedding in a house of worship. If you aren’t sure about the rules for a particular religion, you can ask other guests or take your chances with Google. If there’s any remaining doubt, then cover your shoulders and knees.
Ask about the inclement weather plan
Couples getting married outdoors in the summer often have a backup venue in case a thunderstorm rolls into town on their wedding day. Couples getting married in winter should also have a plan for dealing with snow, and it’s OK to ask about that plan as long as you do so politely. Depending on where you live, a little snow on the day of the wedding can either add to the charm or leave guests freaked out and afraid to drive. A lot of snow, however, can make driving to the wedding impossible unless you’re an experienced winter driver.
If the wedding day arrives and you can’t drive because the snow plows haven’t gotten to your street, try to find another guest with an SUV and studded snow tires who is willing to give you a ride. Don’t let the weather ruin the magical moments you get to share as the couple celebrates their dream wedding.