Walking in a Winter Wonderland Wedding in Florida
Many people eagerly await the first signs of winter, when cooler weather calls for warmer clothing and calendars fill with plans for festive holiday events. Weddings are often among special events planned for December, but for couples that live in Florida, planning a winter wonderland wedding can present a unique set of weather-related challenges. However, with a bit of creativity and design expertise, the desired theme can be achieved with a winter wedding that may be snow-free but is filled with wonder.
According to wedding experts, when creating a Florida winter wonderland wedding, couples and wedding planners should focus on a “cool, snowy atmosphere using a palette of whites, silvers, and icy blues, abundant fairy lights, draping fabrics, faux snow elements (like cotton or glitter), cozy textures (fur, velvet), and winter-themed décor like snowflakes and icicles, while incorporating Florida’s natural elements like palm trees by dressing them with lights for a magical, tropical-winter fusion.”
For couples who live in Indian River County (IRC), or who plan to be married in IRC, creating a winter wonderland wedding should start with choosing a color palette that mimics the feel of winter. Experts agree the colors that work best are whites, icy blues, silver, and maybe some grey or metallic accents for a true winter feel. Adding to an established color scheme, lighting plays an important part in creating the cool aesthetic that winter brings. Lighting options such as fairy lights and twinkle lights can be draped everywhere to mimic stars or falling snow, along with shimmering snowflakes and icicles that, when hung from the ceiling, enhance the desired effect. Additional lighting, in the form of lots of different-sized candles, can also be used for a dreamy and romantic glow, especially with candles of different heights.
When considering winter wonderland wedding décor, faux snow is a must, with many product options available that suggest or mimic snow. Additional décor suggestions include faux fur blankets on chairs, velvet ribbons, and wood elements to create warmth and depth. With floral choices, which are just as important in a winter wedding as they are in a pastel-filled June wedding, wedding professionals suggest the use of evergreens and white flowers including roses and hydrangeas. In some IRC weddings, designers have draped pine or eucalyptus garlands around palm tree trunks to blend Floridian elements with winter wonderland décor elements.
To continue the winter-based theme, some couples even go as far as to ensure the room for the reception is at a temperature that just about encourages guests to reach for available blankets or take advantage of the drinks at the coffee and cocoa bar. Also enhancing the décor—but in a more subtle and unseen way—is the strategic use of scents like pine and cinnamon to further bring the winter wonderland theme front and forward to all guests at the event.
When it comes to artificial snow, which is very much on-trend now, it can be the key to creating a realistic and immersive winter wonderland experience for any wedding. Products are often made from a safe, non-toxic material that mimics the look and feel of real snow, and allows couples to bring the magic of winter to any venue, regardless of the sunny IRC weather outside.
Brides-to-be can imagine walking down the aisle with a blanket of artificial snow crunching beneath their feet, creating a truly magical entrance. This ethereal touch adds an element of whimsy and wonder to the ceremony, transforming any venue into a winter wonderland. The contrast of wedding attire against the pristine white snow can create a stunning visual effect, making for unforgettable photographs and a truly unique experience.
Artificial snow can also be used to complement lighting and transform a reception space into a winter wonderland. Some of the most popular designs and décor uses for artificial snow are a snowy dance floor, snowy centerpieces (that also have frosted branches and pinecones), and snowy table runners and chair decorations. Snowy window displays and entryways also help set the tone for the winter wonderland theme. On a whimsical note, artificial snow can also be used as an element in backdrops for photo booths, along with sparkling lights and winter-themed props for a fun and interactive experience for wedding guests.
When it comes to creating a winter wonderland wedding in Indian River County, it really doesn’t matter if the couple chooses artificial snow or chooses to hire a company to create and spray real “snowflakes” over them and their guests during the ceremony. It also doesn’t really matter that even though it’s December, it may be 85 degrees outside their venue. What does really matter is that the soon-to-be newlyweds are able to start their married lives together with their desired winter wonderland wedding—complete with a faux chill all around them and a real love within them that will keep them warm for many years to come.
Photo courtesy of Jenn Guthrie Photography
Photo courtesy of Monarch Studios
Photo courtesy of Maggie Stolzberg
