Does the thought of fluffy white snow, warm cozy flavors and the genuine romance that surrounds the winter months have you considering a winter wedding? There’s something to be said about “the most wonderful time of the year” and the magical spirit it instills. Here at Discover Saratoga, we’re happy to share our top dos & don’ts of planning the perfect winter wedding in Saratoga!

DO: Get creative with warm/cozy cocktails

Holiday cheer is great all winter long! Incorporate creative spins on standard cocktails by making them your own and filled with holiday spirit. Ask your catering company about creating signature holiday cocktails featuring your favorite winter flavors like cranberry, peppermint, gingerbread, and more!

DON’T: Disregard holiday dates

Keeping specific holiday dates at the forefront of your planning is important! Of course, you want all of your guests to be able to attend your special day, but the reality is, the holiday months are busy! Consider hiring a wedding planner who’s an expert in all elements of planning a wedding and can help you navigate date selection.

DO: Take advantage of photo ops provided by Mother Nature

Snow covered monuments, statues and trees make for a clean and crisp backdrop for your wedding day photos. Ask your photographer to incorporate Mother Nature’s gifts into your shots. Saratoga offers many historical parks and attractions that are great photogenic options to consider working into your photos.

DON’T: Ignore the power of sunshine

When considering honeymoon plans during the cold, wintery months, much of Caribbean is in the prime of their season! Travel assistance can help make your honeymoon dreams come true in no time.

DO: Work with the gift of F-R-E-E holiday décor

Plan your color scheme around what the venue uses traditionally each year and you’re bound to create Pinterest-worthy style! But if you do decide to bring your décor to a new/heightened level, consider these décor companies.

DON’T: Forget holiday favors

Send your guests home with the perfect holiday treat to warm up with next to the fireplace. Get customized sweets from these sweet Saratoga shops.

DO: Consider an epic night-time shot

Whether it’s golden hour or a midnight shot, work with your photographer to establish a “must have” photo list that you can plan your timeline around.

DON’T: Rule out styles you haven’t tried on yet

Winter weddings don’t necessarily mean sleeves, although there are some beautiful options for this. Listen to your bridal consultant when shopping for THE dress. They can steer you in a direction that will fit your vision and bring out your personality in your photos!

DO: Make welcome bags for your guests

Saratoga is filled with unique shops and staple items that you can surprise your guests with upon arrival. Plus, they get exclusive savings with our Discover Saratoga Discount Map!

DON’T: Forget to take care of your skin

Getting into a healthy skincare regiment on the months leading up to your wedding is a great plan to ensure that your skin is looking clean, clear and fresh on your wedding day! Pamper yourself with these great spa/beauty options.