Kimberly Vaughan, International Wedding Festival Executive Producer, has produced hundreds of wedding expos & trade shows in Northern California. Kimberly caught the "wedding bug" nearly 20 years ago when she began her wedding career helping couples marry in Yosemite National Park
How To Plan A Winter Elopement
International Wedding Festival • October 1, 2021
How To Plan A Winter Elopement
Elopements have always been spontaneous, impromptu, and highly romantic ‘on the spur of the moment’ displays of wild love. Nowadays, however, a considerable amount of planning goes into an elopement as you undoubtedly need a great location, suitable attire, an officiant, and probably travel-related bookings in advance. That being said, it can still be an absolute dream; the planning may even make it more memorable! An off-season winter elopement does come with some advantages and some aspects you need to plan a little extra for. We recently asked Yosemite Wedding Officiant about winter elopements in Yosemite and the answer was clear... there is no "bad time" to marry in Yosemite National Park. If winter is calling you for a beautiful, snowy wedding, then Yosemite Weddings are a favorite destination for many engaged couples seeking adventure.
Get Those Travel Plans Right
Do you know how in movies the hero always gets a last-minute flight (not to mention upgrade to first class for free) when he goes running to the airport? Yeah, that doesn’t happen in real life. So even though you’ll be planning this elopement in off-season winter, you’ll still need to make a lot of cold (pun intended), calculated decisions.
For starters get the following pointers checked out when you’re deciding on locations:-
What type of transportation will be needed? And what’s the ease cost?
Does this location host weddings or have access to an officiant? Can you persuade one to travel with you?
The spot you are choosing (it’s better to be quite precise about this), is it near a lot of traffic or crowds? How much serenity can you expect without going really off the beaten track and far away from any amenities?
If you’re opting for a stay at a resort, hotel, or lodge, those definitely need advance bookings. So, along with planning your elopement, you can simultaneously plan the honeymoon too.
Packing Is No Joke
Elopements are rarely considered practical affairs but have you ever been caught in the icy cold or snow without an overcoat? Big Mistake. You’ll need to examine the weather forecast with a keen eye and pack accordingly. Don’t forget a warm dress, fleece stocking, and a bridal sweater, or for a regal touch: a beautiful fur wrap. If you suspect you’ll be outside for quite a long time, don’t forget to pack socks, suitable shoes to change into that aren’t stilettos, hand warmers, gloves, and an extra shawl.
Depending on how cold it will be, you’ll want to adjust your attire accordingly. Sure, it isn’t ideal for wearing earmuffs as a bride, but sometimes you need them.
Pick That Perfect Dress
There are many practical elopement dress options you can go for as long as you make sure the material is a thicker one, but just about anything can be styled with a fur coat, fur wrap, or a beautiful printed shawl. Belted midi dresses, especially ones that aren’t floor length, are fabulous (especially if you may have to do a bit of climbing). Similarly, a lace trim white blazer dress is a gorgeous option that can be paired with thermal tights or pants in extreme conditions.
No matter what you choose to wear to tie the knot at your winter elopement, we know it will turn out dreamy. There’s just something so special about a snowy background that genuinely creates a magical backdrop for any “I Do’s.” So, whether you want to wear a beautiful ballgown, a trendy and sophisticated pantsuit, or a sleek and simple long-sleeve crepe sheath, a winter elopement is an excellent idea.
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