Christmas Themed Wedding Inspiration

A Winter Wedding at Poole Court Registry Office

Winter weddings will always have magic in them, it’s the soft light, deeper colours, and a sense that everything feels a little more festive! This mid-December wedding at Poole Court Registry Office in Bristol was a perfect example of how a Christmas-season celebration can feel warm, elegant and effortlessly festive without tipping into novelty.

With a 3pm ceremony, bridesmaids in rich red and green, and that fleeting low winter sun, the day was planned to perfection.

If you’re considering a winter or Christmas wedding, I’ve written this ultimate guide to Christmas weddings just for you!

Winter Light, Short Timelines & Why Planning Matters

One of the biggest differences between summer and winter weddings is light. In December, sunset can arrive as early as 4pm which means everything from group photos to couple portraits needs to be efficient.

For this wedding:

• The ceremony took place at 3pm

• Group photos were kept tight and intentional without any frills

• Portraits were done immediately afterwards to catch the last of the warm winter sun

That low December light is beautiful, softer, warmer, and far more flattering than harsh summer sun, but it disappears so blinking fast. If you’re planning a winter wedding, this is where experience in photography really matters.

My advice:

If photography is high on your priority list, consider:

• An earlier ceremony time

• Fewer but more meaningful group photos

• A clear post-ceremony plan so nothing eats into portrait time

• Choose a photographer who can evidence really good use of flash!

Christmas Wedding Colour Schemes That Feel Classy

This wedding leaned into festive tones without going full Christmas décor and that balance is key.

Timeless Christmas Colour Ideas

• Classic Christmas: Deep red, forest green, soft ivory

• White Christmas: Whites, silvers, frosted greenery

• Modern Winter: Sage green, champagne gold, soft neutrals

• Luxury Festive: Emerald, gold, black accents

Bridesmaids in red and green looked incredible against the winter backdrop and instantly added warmth to the photos which is especially important if it’s a dark or overcast day.

Translating Christmas Décor Into Wedding Styling

You don’t need baubles everywhere for a Christmas wedding to feel festive. Subtle, elevated touches photograph beautifully and keep the day feeling refined.

Classy Christmas Wedding Décor Ideas

• Evergreen foliage (pine, fir, eucalyptus) for tables and signage

• Warm white fairy lights for ambient glow

• Candles in varying heights for depth and warmth

• Mini Christmas trees as table centres or aisle décor

• Gold accents through cutlery, chargers or stationery

Think winter warmth, not Christmas grotto.

Christmas Wedding Table Décor & Centrepiece Ideas

Your tables are where you can really lean into seasonal styling.

Centrepiece ideas that work beautifully:

• Low foliage runners with candles woven through

• Gold or brass candlesticks with tapered candles

• Small potted trees tied with soft ribbon

• Pinecones mixed with greenery and table numbers

• Linen napkins in deep red or forest green

These photograph incredibly well in low winter light and add instant atmosphere.

5 Christmas-Themed Wedding Favours Guests Actually Love

Forget anything that’ll be left behind, winter weddings are perfect for practical, cosy favours.

1. Mini mulled wine spice kits

2. Personalised hot chocolate sachets

3. Scented candles (pine, cinnamon, vanilla)

4. Luxury Christmas biscuits or shortbread

5. Baubles with your names or Bonus points if they double as place names, you could have your guests names on them!

Festive Wedding Food Ideas

I love food so I’ve got a bit carried away with my list here.. but here we go, Christmas-season crowd-pleasers:

• Yorkshire pudding stations

• Pigs in blankets as canapés

• Mulled wine welcome drinks

• Roast dinner of course

• Gingerbread house that you smash instead of cutting a cake!

• Late-night cheese boards (or a cheese tower like a cake!)

Warm food = happy guests and I’m actually a bit obsessed with these ideas and now I’m writing this thinking maybe I’ll get married again and have a Christmas wedding!

Whimsical Christmas Wedding Games for Guests

If you want something a little different during drinks reception or the evening, festive games are an easy win.

Fun but tasteful ideas:

• Little Christmas gifts wrapped up for kids

• Guess the Christmas movie by the quote

• Christmas jokes and puns (like you’d find in a cracker)

• Advice cards but guests put them into clear baubles.

  
  

Why Winter Weddings Photograph So Beautifully

This December wedding proved something I see every year: winter weddings are wildly underrated.

You get:

• Softer, more flattering light

• Richer colours

• A calmer, more intimate feel

• Guests who are fully present (and not melting in the heat)

• Annnnddd my secret favourite is that venues are often pre decorated so less money spent on decor!

With good planning and the right timeline, winter weddings can be just as stunning (if not maybe more!) than thier summer counterparts.

Planning a Winter or Christmas Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a winter celebration and want photography that captures the warmth, atmosphere and real moments (without wasting precious daylight), I’d love to chat.

Winter weddings move fast but when they’re planned well, they’re unforgettable.