Winter Wedding Ideas: Dresses, Flowers, Cakes, and More to Inspire Your Snowy Celebration

There’s something undeniably magical about a winter wedding. The crisp air, the cozy textures, the way falling snow turns even the simplest portrait into something straight out of a fairy tale. Whether you’re dreaming of a Christmas celebration with deep reds and pine, or an icy blue wonderland with touches of gold, the cold season offers a romantic backdrop unlike any other.

But planning a winter wedding comes with its own set of considerations. How do you stay warm without sacrificing style? What flowers actually look best in December? And can you really have outdoor photos when it’s freezing? Spoiler: absolutely, yes. We’ve gathered our favorite winter wedding ideas from real couples who embraced the season beautifully.

From luxe fur wraps to pine cone-adorned cakes, cozy tartan accents to rich jewel-tone bouquets, this guide covers everything you need to plan your own winter celebration. Click through any image to see the full wedding, and for even more cold-weather inspiration, browse our Real Weddings directory.

Winter Wedding Dresses

A winter wedding dress isn’t just about the gown itself—it’s about the whole look. Faux fur wraps, velvet capes, cozy shrugs, and even statement coats become part of the bridal ensemble. The best winter brides lean into the season rather than fighting it, layering luxe textures that photograph beautifully against snowy backdrops.

Classic White Fur Capelet

This Chicago bride paired her romantic lace gown with a textured white faux fur capelet that kept the chill at bay while adding old Hollywood glamour. The look proves you don’t need to sacrifice elegance for warmth—the capelet’s cropped length shows off the gown’s beautiful bodice while the texture adds visual interest against the soft, muted winter landscape. See Sarah and Dale’s Winter Wedding in Chicago.

Fluffy White Stole with Vintage Glam

Who says winter brides have to wear white? This stunner paired a gold beaded art deco gown with a gloriously fluffy white stole, creating a look that’s equal parts vintage glamour and winter wonderland. The braided crown updo and delicate headband complete the Great Gatsby meets Ice Queen aesthetic. Proof that taking style risks in the snow pays off beautifully. See this Whimsical Winter Wonderland Styled Shoot.

Chocolate Brown Fur Stole in Paris

This is for the bride who wants her winter cover-up to make a statement. A rich chocolate brown fur stole adds unexpected warmth (literally and visually) to a delicate lace gown with three-quarter sleeves. The contrast between the soft tulle skirt and the luxurious fur creates a sophisticated European vibe—fitting for a French castle wedding with a Paris photo stop. See Katie and Bobby’s Vintage Wedding in a Romantic French Castle.

Feathered Shrug with Beaded Bodice

Delicate and dramatic all at once, this feathered shrug brings texture and movement to an already stunning beaded gown with an illusion neckline. The wispy feathers catch the light beautifully and feel decidedly bridal while still offering coverage for chilly outdoor photos. It’s the kind of piece that elevates your entire look without overwhelming it. See Amber and Michael’s Prospect Park Picnic House Wedding.

Dramatic Red Shawl in the Snow

Sometimes the cover-up becomes the main event. This bride chose a rich burgundy shawl that pops dramatically against the white snow and her fitted sweetheart neckline gown. The color echoes the deep red florals in her bouquet—featuring anemones, burgundy mums, and pale blue hydrangeas—creating a cohesive winter palette that’s festive without being overtly Christmas. Snowflakes catching in her hair? Chef’s kiss. See Sara and Peter’s Magical Winter Wedding.

Chic White Peacoat with Button Details

For the modern bride who wants warmth without the fur look, this tailored white peacoat is everything. The double-breasted style with black buttons feels polished and structured—perfect over a more romantic gown underneath. Paired with a vibrant red and white bouquet, it’s giving chic city bride meets mountain escape. The key to pulling this off? Keeping the coat fitted and elegant, not bulky. See Kirsten and Kurt’s Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Wedding.

Tawny Faux Fur on a Vintage Settee

This dreamy styled shoot captured a bride wrapped in a tawny faux fur stole, perched on a blush velvet settee in the middle of a snowy field. It’s giving romantic, editorial, and utterly unforgettable. The warmer-toned fur feels fresh compared to the usual white or gray options, and the juxtaposition of the ornate furniture against the stark winter landscape creates visual magic. See this Icy Winter Styled Shoot.

Long-Sleeved Satin Coat Gown

This is the ultimate winter wedding power move: a gown that IS the coat. This elegant white satin number features long sleeves and a fur-trimmed collar and cuffs, creating a look that’s seamlessly cold-weather appropriate without needing a separate cover-up. It’s sophisticated, it’s practical, and it photographs like a dream with snowflakes falling all around. See this Whimsical Winter Wonderland Styled Shoot.

Fluffy White Stole at Christmas Wedding

For her Christmas wedding in Italy, this bride chose a voluminous white fur stole that feels luxurious and festive. Her elegant updo with a delicate hairpiece keeps the focus on the face while the stole frames everything beautifully. The red and cream bouquet with winter greenery ties in the holiday vibes perfectly. See Anna and Alessandro’s Christmas Wonderland Wedding in Italy.

Powder Blue Two-Piece Mountain Gown

Winter brides, let’s talk color. This styled shoot featuring a two-piece gown with a delicate lace bodice and dreamy powder blue tulle skirt proves that icy hues belong in your winter wedding just as much as traditional white. Against the snowy Squaw Creek mountains, the subtle color looks absolutely ethereal. It’s romantic, unexpected, and utterly photogenic. See this Winter Wonderland Styled Wedding.

Winter Wedding Bouquets and Flowers

Winter bouquets have their own kind of beauty—rich jewel tones, unexpected textures like berries and pinecones, and plenty of lush greenery that stays gorgeous in cold weather. The best winter arrangements embrace the season with deep reds, burgundies, and forest greens, often accented with white anemones, roses, and eucalyptus.

Classic Red and White Winter Bouquet

This is peak winter wedding florals. Deep red peonies and ranunculus mingle with creamy white roses and anemones (those black centers!), while sprigs of eucalyptus, cedar, and pink peppercorries add texture and that undeniably festive feel. The loose, organic shape feels romantic rather than stiff—perfect against a snowy Rocky Mountain backdrop. See Kirsten and Kurt’s Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Wedding.

Blue, Burgundy, and White Statement Bouquet

The contrast here is stunning—pale blue hydrangeas, deep burgundy button mums, and white anemones with their dramatic dark centers create a bouquet that’s bold without being overwhelming. The dusty eucalyptus softens everything beautifully. This color combination works year-round but feels especially fitting for winter with those cool blue tones. See Sara and Peter’s Magical Winter Wedding.

Wild and Whimsical with Navy Ribbon

This isn’t your traditional round bouquet—and that’s what makes it so lovely. Red gerbera daisies, blush roses, sprays of red berries, and cascading ferns create a wild, just-picked-from-the-forest feel. The long navy ribbon streaming down adds a pop of unexpected color and movement. It’s giving fairytale princess in a snowy Bavarian forest. See this Snowy Neuschwanstein Castle Wedding Shoot.

Romantic Cascade with Protea and Calla Lilies

This cascading beauty brings the drama. A king protea anchors the arrangement alongside red ranunculus, burgundy calla lilies, white anemones, and lush trailing greenery. The shape is deliberately loose and romantic—perfect for a bride in a flowing gown. The mix of textures and the deep jewel tones feel luxe and perfectly wintery. See this Winter Wonderland Styled Wedding.

Jewel-Toned Autumn-Winter Mix

Bridging the gap between autumn richness and winter elegance, this bouquet by Buds of Brooklyn features burgundy dahlias, peach and blush roses, deep plum ranunculus, and gorgeous silver dollar eucalyptus. The navy berries add an unexpected pop. The overall effect is moody, romantic, and perfect for late fall through winter celebrations. See Amber and Michael’s Prospect Park Picnic House Wedding.

Winter Wedding Cakes

Winter wedding cakes embrace the season with frosted finishes, evergreen accents, pine cones, berries, and rich metallic touches. Whether you want something that looks like a snowy forest or prefer the cozy warmth of candlelight and gold, these cakes prove that cold weather confections can be just as stunning as any summer spread.

Snowy Fir Tree Buttercream Cake

This is THE quintessential winter wedding cake. Delicate fir trees piped directly into white buttercream create a snowy forest scene, while real pine cones and evergreen sprigs add organic texture. It’s rustic, romantic, and unmistakably winter without being overtly Christmas. The textured frosting mimics snow-covered slopes beautifully. See Kirsten and Kurt’s Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Wedding.

Dramatic Teal Marble with Gold Branches

For the couple who wants something unexpected, this two-tier teal marble cake makes a bold statement. The deep jewel tone with gold-painted bare branches climbing up the side feels like a winter forest at twilight. Set against a snowy backdrop with a tall brass candlestick and white ranunculus, it’s moody, artistic, and completely unforgettable. See this Winter Styled Shoot on Ice.

Semi-Naked Drip Cake with Berries and Pine

This single-tier stunner proves bigger isn’t always better. The semi-naked finish with dramatic red drip icing gives it a modern edge, while berries, a pine cone, and winter foliage on top keep things seasonal. Displayed on a rustic wood slice with brass candlesticks and colorful macarons surrounding it, it’s the centerpiece of a gorgeous winter dessert spread. See this Winter Wonderland Styled Wedding.

Elegant Four-Tier with Petal Texture

Not every winter cake needs pine cones and greenery. This elegant four-tier beauty features beautifully textured petal-style buttercream that catches the warm amber reception lighting gorgeously. Fresh white and burgundy blooms cascade down one side, and a delicate gold wire initial topper adds a personal touch. Classic, timeless, and stunning any time of year. See Sarah and Dale’s Winter Wedding in Chicago.

Bundt Cake with Script Topper

Who says wedding cakes have to be tiered? This cozy bundt-style cake with cascading white drizzle icing and a delicate gold “love” script topper is giving intimate winter reception vibes. Surrounded by greenery and other desserts on a buffet spread, it proves that sometimes the simplest option is the sweetest. See Megan and Mike’s Minneapolis Marriott Northwest Winter Hotel Wedding.

Winter Wedding Decor Ideas

Winter wedding decor is all about creating warmth and atmosphere—think candlelight, rich textures, plaid accents, and natural elements like pine, eucalyptus, and berries. These real weddings and styled shoots show how to bring the cozy magic of the season to your tablescape and venue.

Rustic Lodge Tablescape with Lantern Centerpiece

This is winter wedding decor done right. A red plaid table runner instantly sets the seasonal tone, while a black lantern centerpiece with a glowing candle and surrounding greenery creates that lodge-cozy vibe. Dark hunter green napkins, rustic wood table numbers, and delicate glassware complete the look. It’s festive without feeling like a Christmas party. See Kirsten and Kurt’s Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Wedding.

Outdoor Candlelit Garland Runner

For outdoor or tented winter receptions, this candlelit garland runner creates incredible atmosphere. Lush eucalyptus runs down the center with brass candlesticks holding alternating red and ivory tapers—the warm glow against the snowy backdrop beyond is pure magic. Small geometric accents and scattered blooms add interest without overwhelming the natural beauty. See this Winter Styled Shoot on Ice.

Elegant Red and Gold Place Setting

Sometimes the details make everything. This gorgeous place setting features a vintage gold-rimmed plate, a red napkin elegantly folded, a watercolor floral menu card, and a burgundy box place card with calligraphy—plus a tiny berry sprig and gift box for guests. The jewel-toned florals overhead tie it all together. Luxe, thoughtful, and perfectly wintery. See this Winter Wonderland Styled Wedding.

Winter Wedding Guest and Bridesmaid Outfits

Your bridal party needs to stay warm too! The best winter bridesmaid looks incorporate cozy shawls, wraps, and even plaid scarves that add personality while keeping everyone comfortable for outdoor photos. These real wedding parties show how to make cold-weather coordination look effortlessly chic.

Burgundy Gowns with Tartan Plaid Scarves

This Rocky Mountain bridal party nailed the winter look with deep burgundy gowns topped with coordinating green and blue tartan plaid shawls. The pattern adds visual interest and keeps everyone warm during outdoor photos. The bride’s white coat creates beautiful contrast while the plaid ties everything together with a cozy, mountain-lodge feel. See Kirsten and Kurt’s Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Wedding.

Dusty Blue Gowns with Navy Pashminas

This stunning bridal party shows how to coordinate winter layers beautifully. The bridesmaids wear flowing dusty blue gowns in various necklines (mismatched done right!) with cozy navy fringed pashminas. The bride pops in the center with her burgundy shawl, creating a gorgeous color contrast. The matching winter bouquets with white anemones, blue hydrangeas, and red accents tie everything together. See Sara and Peter’s Magical Winter Wedding.

Wine-Colored Gowns with Sheer Ivory Wraps

Golden hour makes everything better, and this joyful bridal party is proof. The bridesmaids wear rich wine-colored gowns with delicate sheer ivory chiffon wraps that add an ethereal layer without hiding their gorgeous dresses. The bride’s cozy white fur shrug coordinates while standing out. The whole group looks warm, happy, and perfectly styled for winter. See Megan and Mike’s Minneapolis Marriott Northwest Winter Hotel Wedding.

Navy Skirts with Fur Stoles at French Chateau

For a destination wedding at a French chateau, these bridesmaids wore elegant navy skirts with coordinating brown and tan fur stoles—a sophisticated take on winter layers. Each stole is slightly different, adding personality while maintaining a cohesive look. Paired with white and blush bouquets against the historic stone chapel, it’s European elegance at its finest. See Katie and Bobby’s Vintage Wedding in a Romantic French Castle.

Winter Wedding Photo Ideas

Yes, you can have stunning outdoor photos in winter—in fact, snowy backdrops create some of the most romantic, dramatic images you’ll ever see. These couples braved the cold for portraits that are nothing short of magical.

Walking Hand in Hand Through Fresh Snow

There’s something so romantic about newlyweds walking through fresh snow together. This Minneapolis couple captured the moment beautifully—her cathedral veil floating behind them, his classic black suit creating perfect contrast against the white. The architectural background adds interest while the snow-covered ground keeps the focus on the couple. Simple, elegant, and timelessly beautiful. See Megan and Mike’s Minneapolis Marriott Northwest Winter Hotel Wedding.

Fairytale Walk in the Snowy Forest

This Neuschwanstein Castle shoot is straight out of a Disney movie. The couple walks hand in hand through a snowy Bavarian forest with the fairytale castle visible through the trees behind them. She wears a fluffy white stole over her ball gown, he’s in a classic toggle coat—and the bride’s sparkling crown feels entirely appropriate for the setting. Pure magic. See this Snowy Neuschwanstein Castle Wedding Shoot.

Embracing in Falling Snow

When it actually snows on your wedding day, you lean in. This couple took full advantage of the falling flakes, embracing outside while snow gathered on their shoulders and in their hair. Her burgundy shawl pops against the white, and the brick building behind adds warmth to the cool scene. It’s the kind of spontaneous moment that becomes a treasured memory. See Sara and Peter’s Magical Winter Wedding.

Epic Mountain Backdrop

Go big or go home. This couple positioned themselves in a pristine snowy field with the Bavarian Alps and Neuschwanstein Castle creating the most dramatic backdrop imaginable. The sunlight streaming over the mountains adds a golden glow to the whole scene. Her ball gown and his classic suit look small against the grand landscape—a reminder that love stories unfold against epic settings. See this Snowy Neuschwanstein Castle Wedding Shoot.

Intimate Moment on Rolling Snowy Hills

This styled shoot took the unexpected route—placing a vintage couch in the middle of a snowy field for the ultimate romantic portrait setting. The couple’s tender embrace, her gorgeous dress train spreading across the snow, the soft winter light… it’s editorial, intimate, and absolutely stunning. Sometimes the best photo ideas are the ones that seem a little crazy. See this Icy Winter Styled Shoot.

Winter Wedding Color Palettes

From classic red and green to unexpected combinations like dusty blue and burgundy, winter offers endless possibilities for gorgeous color schemes. These real weddings show how different palettes create very different vibes—all equally stunning.

Dusty Blue and Deep Red

This sophisticated palette combines icy dusty blues with deep burgundy accents for a look that feels wintery without being overtly Christmas. The mismatched blue bridesmaid gowns in various shades and necklines create visual interest while staying cohesive. When paired with the bride’s burgundy shawl and matching florals, it’s modern, romantic, and perfect for winter. See Sara and Peter’s Magical Winter Wedding.

Watercolor Rose Gold and Soft Blush

For couples who want winter without the dark drama, this softer palette proves you can do elegant and ethereal. Watercolor florals in blush and burgundy, rose gold foil accents, and soft cream paper create stationery that feels like a winter garden. The gorgeous oval diamond ring and jeweled hair clips complete the romantic tablescape. See this Winter Styled Shoot on Ice.

Classic Red, Gold, and Evergreen

Sometimes the classics are classic for a reason. This invitation suite embraces traditional winter colors—deep red calligraphy on cream paper, elegant gold accents, rich green envelopes, and fresh berry sprigs. It reads immediately as a winter celebration while feeling elevated and luxurious rather than kitschy. See this Winter Wonderland Styled Wedding.

FAQs

What should a bride wear to stay warm at a winter wedding?

The most popular options are faux fur wraps, shawls, capes, and even elegant coats. Choose something that complements your gown’s color and style—white and ivory fur looks classic, while colored wraps (burgundy, champagne, even brown) can make a statement. Many brides have two looks: sleeves or a cover-up for outdoor photos, then bare arms for the reception.

What flowers are best for winter wedding bouquets?

Roses, ranunculus, anemones, and amaryllis are all excellent choices that look stunning and hold up well in cold weather. Add texture with berries, pine cones, eucalyptus, cedar, and other winter greenery. Jewel tones like burgundy, deep red, and forest green photograph beautifully, though white and blush arrangements are equally gorgeous against snowy backdrops.

Can you have outdoor photos at a winter wedding?

Absolutely! Snowy outdoor portraits are some of the most romantic wedding photos you can get. The key is keeping sessions short (15-20 minutes), having warm cover-ups ready for the bride and bridal party, and scheduling during the warmest part of the day. Fresh snow makes everything look magical, and the soft winter light is incredibly flattering.

What are popular winter wedding color palettes?

Classic options include burgundy and gold, red and green (done elegantly, not Christmasy), and navy with silver. For a more modern look, try dusty blue with burgundy, emerald with champagne, or even all-white with metallic accents. The key is incorporating rich, warm textures—velvet, fur, candlelight—to make any palette feel cozy.

How do you decorate for a winter wedding without looking like Christmas?

Focus on winter elements rather than holiday-specific ones. Evergreen garlands, white flowers, candles, and natural textures like pine cones and birch all read as wintery without being Christmasy. Avoid traditional red and green together, and skip any ornaments or explicit holiday decor. Metallics like gold, copper, and silver feel festive but seasonally neutral.