ALT-1 Essential Accessories for Winter Brides
Many couples choose a winter wedding as a way to save money, or make the most of the season's spirit. What they often don't realize is all the extra planning that comes along with a winter wedding. Getting married at sea or outdoors is much more difficult when it's cold, for example.
There are lots of small considerations that need to be taken into account when planning your winter wedding, and the bride's accessories are no exception. If you think you only need to worry about a veil, shoes and jewelry, you could be leaving yourself vulnerable to the elements. Don't sacrifice your comfort, appearance or safety on your big day by overlooking winter wedding accessories. Here are a few basic items you'll need to avoid a winter wedding disaster.
Umbrella
Wedding gowns are often made from delicate fabrics, which don't respond well to getting wet. And with wedding day hair and makeup costing into the hundreds of dollars, the last thing you want is to get rained on. Even if the forecast isn't calling for rain or snow, winter brides should have an umbrella on hand. If it fits with your gown style or wedding theme, a parasol can look sweet while keeping you dry. If that's not your thing, ask one of your attendants to help. Chances are, you'll already have your hands full with your gown, so having an extra pair of hands to keep you dry is a necessity.
If you're making up favor bags for your attendants, add an umbrella to ensure everyone looks their best. Umbrellas also make a functional wedding favor for winter weddings, so consider giving them out to your guests.
Coat
Many wedding gowns are sleeveless, feature lace cutouts or have open necklines. While these gowns are definitely fashionable, they're not worth spending your honeymoon sick. Make sure to carry a coat, cape or other warm weather accessories to your wedding.
Wear a short satin, velvet or faux fur jacket to keep arms and shoulders warm, or opt for a short cape to match your gown. A scarf or cashmere wrap is a stylish way to cover up your neck, as well as any chill-inducing necklines. While these cold weather accessories can be purchased to match your dress, using one of your wedding's accent colors will also provide a nice finishing touch.
Non-Slip Shoes
With the possibility of wet weather, it's a good idea to ensure you won't slip and fall. If you can't wait until you get to your ceremony's venue to dress, at least wear a pair of non-slip shoes. For church and other traditional weddings, your guests will usually be inside and seated by the time you make your entrance. This means they can't see you if you show up with a pair of snow boots on. Once inside, you can switch to your other shoes and no one will be the wiser.
It's smart to choose small-heeled shoes for a winter wedding. These give you more control underfoot, and have less potential for serious damage or accidents if you do happen to slip or trip.
In finding your winter bridal accessories, don't forget to also look for the basics. Every bride should have a small handbag (often a silk or satin pouch), to hold items she'll need throughout the day such as perfume, tissues, aspirin and clear nail polish (used to stop pantyhose runners). Many brides also wear gloves during the wedding, depending on the sleeve length of the gown. Some brides choose to take off their veils after the ceremony, and switch to a hat, tiara or other headpiece for the reception.
Every bride is different, and therefore will have different “essential” accessories. For winter brides, most will need to consider more accessories than those saying “I do” during the warmer months.
