Maybe it’s because you just had to use a specific location, or maybe just because you like the snow, but in any case, you’ve found yourself planning a winter wedding.  Most other wedding blogs focus on spring or summer weddings and skip over the reality of winter weddings, though some do have some great ideas. Lucky for you, we’ve shot some amazing winter weddings and have condensed our top tips for getting you the best photos (and experiences) possible on your special day.

1. Use Winter for What it is

There is a very different beauty in the environment in the winter, and you should embrace that if you decide to have a winter wedding. Your photos will most likely have different colors and tones than other outdoor wedding shoots, which means your color scheme should match. White and silver are your new best friends. Use the look of fragile branches in your reception, have a bouquet with holly or mistletoe in it – make it fun and creative for yourself!

2. Stay Warm

Make sure to bring something to keep you warm, and do it in style. The obvious difficulties of a winter wedding come from the cold, so bringing a fur (or faux-fur) wrap can make all the difference in still having a beautiful photo. If you’re shivering, you’re going to be uncomfortable and it will affect your mood, photos and your overall day. Here are some gown cover-ups for inspiration.

3. Keep Your Guests Warm

One other struggle you may have is getting everyone you love to come to the wedding, especially if there’s going to be a lot of moving around. Consider having the ceremony and reception very close by (or at the same location) so that your guests won’t have to brave the cold too long. Do other things to show them you appreciate them being there and have fun with it! Have a make your own hot chocolate bar, give out blankets and Snuggies for them to use or give them customized mittens with you and your spouse’s names on them. There are so many opportunities  to make it an amazing day.