Have you felt that cool breeze in the air lately? The holidays are on their way, and if the goosebumps on your arms are accompanied by butterflies in your stomach, your winter wedding is probably on its way, too. Are you prepared for the big day? Whether you’re weeks away from your dream wedding or you’re working toward winter 2024, here are my top five tips for a gorgeous winter wedding.

1. Embrace the Season

Did you know only 11 percent of weddings took place outside the traditional May-October wedding season last year? A winter wedding is a stunning event to plan, and gives you the opportunity to create a day that’s both fresh and unique to this industry. So when you’re preparing for your winter wedding, it’s important to embrace the season! Choose a seasonal menu full of hearty soups, winter salads and festive comfort foods. Embrace rich velvets for fabrics and warm hues for colors. Worried about losing the natural light too early? Fairy lights and candles can create the perfect cozy mood—and make for some gorgeous photos!

2. Give Yourself Time

With winter being a unique wedding season, it’s easy to think dates and venues will have plenty of availability, or your guests will have plenty of days off to spend with you. But holiday travel and events book early, and your vendors will, too! Be sure to start planning in advance, and give your guests plenty of time to coordinate holiday calendars with save-the-dates at least six months out.

Even if your winter wedding plans are well underway, this tip applies to the day itself, too. Roads are icy and snow can cause delays, so make sure you give yourself (and your wedding party) plenty of time to commute and prepare. 

3. Consider your Guests

It’s always important to make your friends and family feel welcome on your big day, but with a winter wedding, those steps of comfort for your guests look a little different than the traditional ushers and cocktail hours. Planning an indoor ceremony or reception? Make sure you have a coat check upon arrival, and have plenty of coordinated mats handy for snowy shoes. Any outdoor events? Consider serving warm beverages, or passing out blankets with your programs. If you’re passing out favors, opt for some seasonal favorites like mulled wine spices, mittens, or cozy candles. 

4. Warm up with Layers

Nothing can take you out of a romantic mood faster than cold feet—and I don’t just mean nerves! If you’re walking from space to space, have some cute boots handy to change in and out of, and make sure your bridesmaids do the same. Long dress? Grab some thick or fleece-lined tights to keep your feet and legs toasty. Your accessories and outerwear will be on full display, so make sure you’re prepared with chic layers (for you AND your wedding party!)

5. Prepare for Emergencies

Contingency plans are a part of any event, but they’re especially important for a winter wedding. If you’re planning to use any outdoor spaces, make sure there’s an indoor option that’s available and convenient—winter weather is so unpredictable! Are you providing transportation for your guests? Make sure you have backups available if conditions are bad, and alternate routes ready to communicate if roads are closed. Keep an eye on the airlines, too… your honeymoon travel plans might be delayed!

Don’t get me wrong, the Rocky Mountains offer some truly amazing engagement photo locations. But odds are, you’ve likely seen a photo shoot or two in the same handful of spots over the years—especially if you’re a native. Maybe you even took your senior portraits or photos with your family at all the spots coming through in your Google search! And while those locations are well-known for good reason, there are plenty of hidden gems right here in the city that give you a uniquely Colorado backdrop without a drive—and without matching your wedding venue.

Before you get too overwhelmed with wedding day details, get all dressed up and celebrate your union at one of these engagement photo locations (that aren’t Garden of the Gods).

Colorado College

Even if you’re not a student or alum, this downtown campus has tons of gorgeous engagement photo locations to choose from. Use the old Victorian-style buildings or the perfect view of Pike’s Peak! There’s flowers and perfectly green grass in the spring/summer, and stunning foliage in the fall. And since it’s a state institution, the grounds are always beautifully kept!

Manitou Springs/Old Colorado City

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding ceremony, Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City offer charming spots that show a different side of Colorado Springs. Spend your session playing at the Penny Arcade, or simply highlight the historic buildings and brick alleyways. Choose one town, or hit both! They’re not that far apart. 

The Broadmoor

If you’re looking for elegance and glamor, there’s really no place quite like The Broadmoor. With a lake angainst the stunning hotel itself, this entire property is a hotbed of engagement photo locations. If you’re considering a winter or holiday shoot, definitely move this one to the top of your list! The property’s trees are always dazzlingly lit, and the lobby areas are decorated to the nines.

The Air Force Academy

Military or not, the Air Force Academy is an amazing spot to consider for Colorado Springs engagement photos. Snap some shots by the pond, or against the regal architecture of the chapel. Then head to the aspen trees, or any of the grounds’ grassy fields. Did I mention the mountain range backdrop?

Glen Eyrie Castle/Event Center

What better place to celebrate your happily ever after than at a real life castle? Tucked away right here in the city, Glen Eyrie can help you paint a fairy tale love story. Pose near the castle, river (with cobblestone bridge), and carriage house outdoors, or the Great Hall, music/tea room and Queen’s Parlor inside. Who doesn’t love a good princess story, right?

Need some more reasons to schedule a shoot? Check out my journal all about engagement photos here!