The Perfect Winter Wedding

Newstead Priory’s Wedding Planner, Lucy Kent, discusses...The Perfect Winter Wedding

Winter weddings conjure a truly magical atmosphere. Alongside traditional weddings, elegant black tie weddings are also popular. Winter is so different from the rest of the year, a wedding in the festive season will be memorable. Late weddings at this time of year are lovely when it is getting dark with lots of candlelight and fairy lights for a really romantic atmosphere. Or for the best of both worlds, weddings earlier in the day will allow enough light outside for your photographer to take daylight shots but then as it gets darker all the lighting is a wonderful contrast for the evening’s celebrations.

Warmth & Aromas

Open log fires make a fabulous impact when guests walk into a room and are so welcoming in cold weather. The smell of cinnamon, oranges with cloves, fresh Christmas trees and pine cones are seasonal and always

make a room nice with that exciting festive feel. Guests will appreciate a warm welcome; mulled wine, hot port or whiskey served with lemon and cloves are popular choices.

Weather & Wedding Attire

During the winter months you know it is going to be cold so you are never going to be disappointed if the sun isn’t shinning! It is the time of year we see more variety with coloured wedding dresses; from holly green, crimson red to ice blue. Fur wraps or long velvet cloaks not only look fabulous but are practical to brave the cold weather. Funky wellies or hug boots, plus glamorous glitzy wedding shoes, will be required if the weather is cold but what better excuse to have two pairs of fabulous foot wear!? For something a little different the Swarovski crystal bouquets are perfect and are ideal for allergy sufferers.

Decorations

Traditional garlands around log fires with holly berries, baubles and fairy lights make a wonderful impact. We also like to decorate the priory with big bunches of hanging mistletoe – perfect for the photographs! Poinsettia plants not only look lovely but are wonderful in arrangements. We love the cream ones for weddings but the traditional deep reds are so nice too. The crystal winter wonderland look with candlelight and ivory roses or gypsophila on white linen can look stunning. A Christmas bauble with the bride and grooms names and wedding date make the perfect favour for guests. We also think mini Christmas crackers as a name place are great fun.  

Food, Glorious Food!

Planning the menu with the chef is one of the most exciting elements for many couples. The food and drink will be highly anticipated by the guests. Festive canapés look and taste fantastic and bright winter berries add

a splash of colour to deserts. Some of our most popular winter canapés include; Gravlax on Pumpernickle with Dill Mustard Sauce, Mini Yorkshire Puddings with Filet of Beef and Horseradish Sauce and Celery Barquettes with Stilton & Walnuts.

To start, warming soups with crusty bread are a good choice or game tartlets with cranberry compot. Winter main courses include Fillet of beef on bubble & squeak cakes and Venison, which is very festive and such a treat. For vegetarians Mushroom Wellington with white wine cream sauce is a delicious option. Huge cheeses, served with port are the perfect way to finish a meal!  

Winter at Newstead Priory...

Newstead Priory has excellent facilities for winter weddings. If you are opting for a festive theme you will be delighted with the stunning Christmas decorations that adorn the priory during December. With its roaring open fires and well heated rooms, the priory provides a welcome retreat from the cold outdoors. As the daylight fades, the fairy lights and candles create a unique atmosphere in the ancient priory and in the beautifully restored reception barn. Head Chef Marina Kent will work with you to create a delicious menu and Wedding Planner Lucy Kent will turn your winter wedding dreams in to reality.