With the weather beginning to change, it’s time to gear up for planning your winter wedding! I’m sure you’ve already started planning, but I’m going to provide a few tips that you may not have thought of. Being a Jackson Hole elopement and wedding photographer, I shoot weddings all throughout the year, and a winter wedding can be brutal. But, with my tips, my Jackson Hole brides are always warm and have an absolute dream day.

Winter Wedding Day Checklist

Let’s talk about your checklist of items to bring with you on your elopement or wedding day. Most of my couples love taking photos outside to showcase those beautiful Teton mountains, if you’re looking for some outdoor shots as well, make sure to come prepared! I always prep my couples before our bridal session or even before the wedding day to ensure everyone makes it there safe and warm.

Hand Warmers

First, bring all the hand warmers! You have no idea how handy these little guys are, until you’re out in the snow. Bring more than you think you’ll need because most likely you’ll be taking pictures outdoors for a while. They are small enough to fit in a coat pocket, or even your shoes to keep your toes nice and warm! I always stuff my pockets with these in the winter!

Gloves & Warm Coat

Next, bring some gloves and a warm coat! Just because we’re taking wedding pictures, doesn’t mean you need to just wear your dress. In between photos, and walking to different locations you’ll want to warm up and get ready to take more pictures. Bringing some gloves and a warm coat will be the perfect escape from the winter weather.

This is the perfect time to bring out those dramatic old Hollywood style fur wraps for those dreamy winter wedding photos. Throughout your session pulling out these fun accessories and wraps will be a great way to bring your wedding theme to the session, and stay warm! Consider a plaid blanket, or even a family quilt, for a unique way to bring a family heirloom into the session while achieving that cozy romantic winter look.

Thick Socks & Leggings Under Your Dress

As a bride, I don’t think I would have thought of this, but so glad I know now. Wear your thickest and warmest leggings and thickest socks to your outdoor winter wedding session, you won’t regret it! We’re going for a warm chic vibe that allows you to actually enjoy your time outdoors, and not be frozen by the end of it. Thick leggings and socks are going to be your saving grace during your outdoor bridals. Once we go back inside to your venue, take them off, and get back to the warmth and wedding fun.

Wear Your Snow Boots

I promise, no one will see them, so wear your boots! As a bride, you’re imagining the elegant dress and beautiful snowy Teton backdrop as you gracefully walk through the snow with your love. Probably don’t want to see those clunky snow boots, don’t worry! Your dress will be long enough to cover it, and if you change your mind and want to show a bit of adventure in your pictures, we’ll show you rocking the snow boots! Wearing your boots will help make the experience more enjoyable as you’re not freezing your toes off, and are able to move about easier not worrying about losing a shoe.

Bring a Thermos of Hot Cocoa or Coffee

Remember those cozy romantic vibes we were aiming for? Insert the hot cocoa here! It’ll be such a fun touch to include in your winter wedding pictures, but also most importantly will keep you both warm! If you haven’t noticed a common theme here yet, it’s all about staying warm and happy. As we go throughout your portraits it’ll be a nice way to wake you both up, while giving you the boost of sugar you need to finish strong!

Fun Activities to Include on Your Winter Wedding Day

For all of my adventurous couples, consider including a fun activity on your wedding day, like snowshoeing, cross country skiing or downhill skiing, a dog sled ride, or the Elk Refuge Sleigh ride. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors by allowing guests or even just the two of you a bit of fun. Being in Jackson Hole there are endless opportunities for adventure! Including a bit of fun will make the day that much more memorable.

My personal favorite are the sleigh rides. Not only is it a fun way to celebrate winter, but also the upcoming holidays! Allow your guests to sit back and enjoy the view while they’re pulled on these beautiful sleighs. The horse-drawn sleighs will take your guests through the National Elk Refuge while enjoying the sights and wildlife.

Consider an Indoor Venue for Your Winter Wedding

Take a break from the outdoors and cozy up with family and friends indoors. Find an indoor venue close to Grand Teton National Park you love to celebrate your recent marriage with hot cocoa and yummy food. It’ll be a good way to stay warm and have fun dancing the night away with your loved ones. After the ceremony, we’ll be able to escape to the park for some fun adventure photos.

If your venue has a fireplace, we could even a cozy fireplace session with your love in your wedding attire!

Last but not least, don’t forget your snow tires! We want you to arrive to your wedding in one piece so make sure you come prepared for anything. Snow tires are your best bet to ensure a safe arrival and allow for some fun outdoors.

Your winter wedding will be incredible and just what you dreamed of. Just remember to stay warm and love each other! It’s going to be a blast.

Dreaming of an incredible photography experience with me? Let’s chat!