It’s not even summer yet and we’re already thinking about festive weddings. Warm toasty fires, hot toddies that exude a smell and sense of cheer… We’re already there! And for couples who are planning a winter wedding – it probably feels like you are perpetually in festive seasonal mode! Ciara at the breathtaking Kilronan Castle, Roscommon has plenty of experience with winter weddings. Here are her expert tips on planning a winter wedding.
There is something so special about a winter wedding. What is your favourite part of seeing a wedding at winter time?
My favorite part of a winter wedding has to be when the Bride & Groom and their guests arrive back to the hotel. Stepping inside the timeless décor in out of the crisp cold weather with the roaring open fires, candle light and the smell of the beautifully decorated fir Christmas Trees…. it’s a breathtaking sight!
Guests are welcomed to the private Dungeon Bar where the gentle scents of Cinnamon and Mulled wine greet you as you sip away and take in the sights of the shores of Lough Meelagh.
What tips would you give to making your guests cosy on a winter’s day?
Keeps your guests cosy by having a basket of fleecy blankets or shawls by the door for guests venturing outside.
Hot Beverages for your guests on arrival and warm canapés, maybe some small espresso cups of Fresh soup when they arrive back to the castle. Setting an atmosphere with candles lit and open fires is always a good idea.
What are your favorite winter wedding colors?
Red, gold, ivory look great in the ballroom, and for winter weddings you don’t have to spend lots of money on flowers, in addition to our beautiful 5 arm antique candelabras and crystal chandeliers you can dress the rooms with candles!
What is a must-do for any couple having a winter wedding?
A must do for any winter wedding is for the couple to bear in mind the traveling distance from the ceremony to the venue… take into consideration that you may be in and out of wet weather. Make your guests feel as comfortable as possible with ideas like offering umbrellas at your ceremony.
Are there any must have winter warmer drinks at a wedding?
Spruce up your champagne reception by serving winter themed drinks. Our favorite would have to be traditional mulled wine; the hot spicy wine is perfect with a mince pie or even a Baileys hot chocolate or Irish coffee. We also offer a range of winter themed cocktails such as a White Russian or The Candy Cane.
Kilronan Castle must look stunning during winter. Where are your favourite locations for photographs?
Outside on 49 acres of private demesne on the shores of Lough Meelagh, Kilronan Castle really is a gorgeous backdrop for romantic winter wedding portraits.
