Planning a winter wedding has more advantages than a bride would think. For starters, a winter wedding can cost half of what a spring/summer wedding would cost because winter is considered the off season for venues. For the same reason, getting that must-have venue is easy to book during the winter. The winter season proves to be less hectic for families therefore making it possible for them to attend. Lastly, a winter wedding will leave a lasting impression on the guests because they are unique, but only if they're done right. So here are six tips to making that winter wedding magical for you and your guests.

Create a Cozy Reception

There are plenty of ways to make your reception an even more inviting space. With the sun setting early, candles will create a romantic glow right from the start of your party. To add to the ambience, consider bringing in lush, soft textures: Think velvet ribbon tied around each napkin or chenille pillows and throws in a lounge area.

Be Gracious to Your Guests

There are tons of winter-inspired ways you can thank your guests for joining you at your wedding. Winter- or holiday-themed favors are always favorites, like ornaments with each guest's name on them before Christmas or delectable truffles near Valentine's Day. Another option is do an extra late-night snack. We love the idea of giving out hot cocoa with shortbread cookies or mulled apple cider with gingerbread.

Don't Leave Your Guests Out in the Cold

If you want to have a receiving line, plan ahead of time how it will work so guests aren't left freezing outside. If your ceremony space has a large enough entryway or vestibule, you may be able to wait there and have guests greet you after the ceremony. To hold a receiving line at the reception, do it inside rather than greeting guests as they enter. That way, when the line starts to bottleneck, guests in the back aren't left waiting (and shivering) to get indoors.

Pick Your Color Scheme Wisely

Winter time limits your flower choices. Your color scheme will have a major impact on your flower selection, so choose wisely during this time. For a silver or white wedding incorporate white holly branches or silver-dollar eucalyptus. Roses and tulips will be in season, pair them with holly or pine greenery for a Christmas-time bouquet

Create A Winter Menu

Your wedding menu should reflect you and your spouse's taste in food. Among your favorite dishes, serve some winter staples. Soups such as butternut squash, pumpkin, or corn chowder make an excellent palate warmer and give your guests a cozy feel. Comfort foods will be your best bet during the chilly winter months, so select foods that are in season and remind you of the holidays. Serve hot chocolate, spiced wine and eggnog among your beverage selection and consider decorating your cake in a snowflake or winter theme to top it all off.

Arrange Transportation

Make it easy for your guests to get from the ceremony to the reception. If snow and ice are a possibility, consider having your ceremony and reception at the same venue, saving your guests any travel trouble. If guests will be driving to the reception space, consider valet parking so that they don't have to walk far from their cars to the entrance. Have the number of a car service on hand at the reception just in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. That way, you can be certain everyone gets home safely.

Find more helpful information about making your winter wedding at the knot and if you need help finding the perfect winter reception location check out the best reception location listing in the Chippewa Valley.