There is something very special about a wedding at winter. The cool air, a toasty indoor fire, a cup of something warm surrounded by your friends and family. We’ve asked wedding expert, Yvonne Guilfoyle at Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny, about her experiences on making a winter wedding perfect.
Yvonne begins by mentioning that ambience is very important. “The lighting (candles and lanterns) really help give the cosy, winter wonderland feeling. Also, open log fires and the aromas of mulled wine as the doors open to your dream venue – that’s what makes a winter wedding special.”
She also mentions that treating your guests is very important when trying to exude a cosy atmosphere.”We always like to offer that something special to our couples and their guests, so we would recommend the classic Mulled wine on arrival and delicious velvet hot chocolate in front of the open log fire.”
Yvonne also notes that enjoying and excepting what will be in terms of weather is also an important part of the day. “Don’t worry about the weather! It’s something all Irish people worry about the morning of their wedding but unfortunately the weather in Ireland is always unpredictable so have contingency plans in place. There are great accessories available for that rainy day so invest in a quirky umbrella or even wellies for your photographs! Pink wellies will stand out in your photo album and will always bring a smile to your face when you look back on it.”
In terms of photos, Yvonne has similar advice as she mentions making the most of a winter’s day is important: “Our lobby offers stunning photographs by our Grand Piano and of course our open log fire. During the Christmas period, our decorations throughout the hotel are the perfect backdrop for beautiful wedding photos. We also have the stunning Terrace Room with a beautiful bay window and prominent drapes. Use the atmosphere of the day and work with the comfort and celebratory sense that comes with winter-time.”
And as for a must have drink for a winter wedding? “Guests always enjoy a good hot Irish whiskey to help them warm as they arrive into the venue. An instant atmosphere comes from the scent alone!”
