Event Tips

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Winter Barn Wedding

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Winter Barn Wedding

Planning a winter barn wedding can be exciting; from stunning seasonal decor to winter wonderland scenery for incredible photos, there is a range of details to consider.

While planning for all the highlights, avoiding these common mistakes is vital to ensure your special day goes smoothly. At The Barn at Ligonier, we’ve put together some of our top winter wedding tips for brides. Here are some of the most common winter wedding mistakes and how to avoid them:

Not Preparing for Weather Challenges

Winter weather is unpredictable. Be sure to work with your venue to include additional heating, warm blankets, and warm drinks to help keep guests comfortable. The Barn at Ligonier Valley is temperature-controlled to ensure the cold remains at bay while you and your guests party the night away.

You should also have a plan in the event of snow or ice. Be sure to keep in touch with guests via your wedding website so they can get updates on any changes to the big day due to the weather. Also, arrange guest transportation to ensure they arrive safely at the venue and can return to their accommodations safely afterward. A shuttle bus service is a popular choice for weddings.

Neglecting Proper Lighting

Winter days are shorter, making it essential to plan accordingly for photos so you don’t run out of daylight for your desired shots. Make a list of the photo opportunities you need to get before the daylight ends.

When the night sets in, you can use string lights, candles, and lanterns to ensure guests can find their way around the venue and create a romantic ambiance with practicality.

Skipping Seasonal Décor

Décor can make or break the atmosphere and impression your wedding makes on guests. To ensure a cohesive look, avoid choosing decor that doesn’t align with the winter season or The Barn’s rustic theme.

To make sure your decor creates a cohesive winter look, here are some suggestions to consider:

Incorporate greenery: Silver dollar eucalyptus is a classic greenery choice year-round, whereas seeded eucalyptus will add a vintage flair to a winter floral arrangement. Cedar, juniper, and blue spruce are also great options to include for the winter season. Consider adding glitter for a snowy sparkle.

Add wood accents: Wooden accents such as wood rounds underneath your centerpieces, wooden table number signs, or place cards are a great way to add a rustic touch to your tablescape.

Include winter-specific elements: Use candles for a cozy vibe, and consider incorporating pine cones into the boutonnieres, floral arrangements, and tablescapes.

Failing to Budget for Seasonal Costs

Budgeting for a winter wedding can be overwhelming, so it’s important to account for all factors so there are no surprises close to the special day. With temperatures dropping, especially in the evening, it’s important to budget for higher heating costs. Be sure to discuss this cost with the venue and determine what arrangements must be made to keep guests comfortable.

Seasonal floral prices may surge, especially if you want flowers not readily available in the winter. Choose winter flowers and greenery as these may have a lower cost. Be sure to get quotes from florists to see which best suits your budget.

Ignoring Floor Plan Adjustments for Winter

The winter weather can be harsh, meaning your wedding activities will likely be held indoors for comfort and convenience. When touring a venue, be sure adjustments can be made to accommodate indoor ceremonies or cocktail hours. You don’t want to be stuck without adequate dancing space or seating for your event because you overlooked the layout constraints.

When you work with The Barn at Ligonier Valley, we can determine what layout will best suit your goals to ensure we make the most of our beautiful space on your special day.

Not Communicating Dress Code for Guests

When hosting a winter wedding, you don’t want to leave guests underdressed for the winter weather. Be sure to suggest they wear their warmest winter’s best. You can select the dress code on the invitation or your wedding website to ensure guests see the communication clearly and have enough time to prepare their outfits.

Celebrate Your Dream Winter Wedding at The Barn at Ligonier Valley

A winter barn wedding at The Barn at Ligonier Valley offers the perfect blend of rustic charm, cozy elegance, and breathtaking seasonal beauty.

From the warm glow of sparkling lights to the serene backdrop of snow-covered landscapes, your special day will be nothing short of magical. With our stunning venue, dedicated team, and customizable options, we’re here to make your winter wedding vision a reality.

Start planning your dream day with The Barn at Ligonier Valley and create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us today to schedule a tour of the venue or learn how we can bring your winter wedding to life!

Tim Carson
Tim Carson