Are you planning a winter wedding? Winter weddings are gaining popularity in Texas, offering a magical alternative to the summer heat. Opting for a winter celebration can create a charming and cozy atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a romantic setting to tie the knot. And, choosing a winter wedding can offer a special and unforgettable experience for guests. Winter weddings also offer practical benefits for guests, as they may find it easier to attend during a season when vacation days are more readily available.
The winter season provides a picturesque backdrop with its chilly weather, cozy settings, and the potential for snowfall. In Central Texas, venues like Lake Serenity Ranch offer unique and intimate spaces for couples to exchange vows, adding a seasonal charm to the overall wedding experience. The Grove at Lake Serenity Ranch is a picturesque outdoor spot for a winter wedding. However, Lake Serenity Ranch has two backup indoor options for winter weddings should the weather make it impossible to be outdoors. You should definitely have a backup indoor option at any venue you choose.
Wedding couples at winter often embrace the romantic ambiance of the season by incorporating festive details like white florals, eggnog, and holiday cheer into their decor, from candlelit centerpieces to ice sculptures. Many couples in Central Texas love the “winter wonderland” theme for their weddings, incorporating elements such as pinecones, evergreen branches, and faux fur accents for a memorable event. Decor options abound, including pre-lit Christmas trees, mistletoe, and themed bars featuring hot cocoa and s’mores for added fun..
“The Grove at Lake Serenity” presents some incredible backdrop at winter weddings. All the Texas pecan trees arranged in rows in this courtyard fronting the lake and between the ranch house and Lakeview ballroom shed their leaves resulting in clearer view of the landscape, the lake and the beautiful central Texas skyline. The daily sunset is more visible from anywhere on the ranch, and the golden hour more dramatic! This is where you can layer your winter decor theme and lighting for a magical winter wedding celebration. You could even add a fire-pit.
Must Have Indoor Backup Plan
The weather in Texas can change in a minute. Temperate ranges in the winter can be dramatic. For this reason, a backup indoor plan for your winter wedding is most important even though you have decided on an outdoor wedding. Many Texas wedding venues and ranches have barns that may not be well heated during the winter. The opposite may be the case in the hot summer months. The reason is that many of these spaces were used for housing animals and not living spaces before their conversion into venues. However, many venue like Lake Serenity Ranch have modern barns or ballrooms for events. These newer facilities usually cost more to use. Be sure to investigate the options.
Below are more tips for planning a cozy winter wedding with an abundance of Texas charm:
1. **Indulge in Comfort Food**: Treat your guests to a warm plate of Texas comfort food, such as BBQ and Tex-Mex staples. Add a touch of Southern charm with pecan pies and Bluebell ice cream on the dessert table. Don’t forget to offer Texas-brewed beverages for a complete experience.
2. **Offer Delicious Warm Drinks**: Create a specialty warm drink menu featuring cocktails like hot cocoa and cider for guests to enjoy and stay cozy throughout the evening.
3. **Arrange Guest Lodging in Cozy Places**: Opt for cozy guest cottages or boutique hotels near your Austin wedding venue for a more private and intimate stay. Consider booking early or checking out nearby Air BnBs for a unique experience.
4. **Curate Cozy Wedding Favors**: Choose cozy wedding favors like mini-mittens with scratch-off lotto cards or DIY hot cocoa kits. Hot chocolate bombs are popular and make a delightful gift, while scarves or throws can add an extra touch of warmth.
5. **Utilize Firepits, Fireplaces, and Heaters**: Keep your guests warm outdoors with firepits, heat lamps, or fireplaces at your venue. These cozy features will create a welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy the evening.
6. **Incorporate Winter Greenery into Décor**: Enhance your wedding décor with winter greenery such as garlands, sprigs, or centerpieces featuring evergreens. These natural elements will bring warmth and beauty to your wedding setting.
7. **Create Ambiance with Candles**: Elevate the ambiance by using candles or lanterns to add a romantic and cozy glow to your tables and décor. Be sure to check with your venue for any restrictions on real candles.
8. **Embrace Plaid**: Infuse your winter wedding with the coziness of plaid by incorporating it into bridesmaids’ attire, reception décor, or other elements of your wedding theme. Choose patterns like buffalo check or tartan for a warm and inviting feel.
9. **Set Up a Hot Chocolate Station**: Surprise your guests with a hot chocolate station filled with cocoa, hot water, and various toppings. This interactive station will be a popular spot for guests to enjoy a warm treat during the reception.
10. **Add Twinkle Lights for Magic**: Illuminate your winter wedding with twinkling lights to create a magical ambiance both indoors and outdoors. Whether draped over tables or hung from trees, twinkle lights will transform your setting into a Texas winter wonderland filled with love and light.
Happy Planning
