What to Wear for a Winter Elopement
My top tips and tricks as an elopement photographer in cold areas
If you love winter, then embrace the cold and elope in a snowy wonderland! You’ll need to know what to wear for a winter elopement though, as poor planning may lead to cold toes and chilly feelings. There is no faster way to ruin an otherwise great time outdoors in the snow than with wet, cold clothes.
In order to prepare for your winter elopement, these are my top tips for staying warm and photo ready.
Dress in layers and carry your wedding attire with you until you’re in your photo location. It’s very important that you stay warm and dry as long as possible, so if you don’t think your wedding attire will stand up to the cold, or might get wet, wait to change. Layering white or nude colored fleece tights under your dress is a great way to stay warm while staying dressed up. Matching white beanies, gloves, jackets and scarves are also great ways to style a winter outfit. Same goes for suits!
Have a change of clothes and socks. Whether you’re wearing your attire or not, it’s good to have a change of clothes nearby in case things get damp. An extra pair of dry socks take up almost no room in a backpack but could be a lifesaver.
Hand, foot and body warmers. If you plan on being outside for an especially long time, or there is a lot of wind or extreme low temps, have some hand warmers with you. There are even kinds that stick to your body under your clothes!
Keep the ceremony short and sweet. More than 10-15 minutes standing in one place will leave you cold. Stay moving as much as possible by walking around your location.
Waterproof shoes, preferably winter boots that go over the ankles. Don’t compromise functionality for fashion here. Either buy boots that match your outfits, or embrace the adventure-chic look of hiking boots with wedding attire!
Waterproof makeup (especially mascara) tinted chapstick and moisturizer. The cold will zap the color and moisture from your skin, so make sure you have chapstick and lotion for your face. Waterproof mascara is crucial as well, since snow and the condensation from your breath will make normal mascara run.
Bring some warm beverages in a thermos, or some whiskey to toast with! A bit of mulled wine, hot chocolate or tea is great to warm up with.
Hug your loved one(s) often - for the endorphins and the body heat! Staying close together is not only cute for the photos, but great for keeping cozy.
Still not sure what to wear for a winter elopement?
Dressing for cold weather is mostly about common sense. If you’re really not sure what to wear for your winter elopement, or how to make it match your attire, reach out using my contact form below and I’d be happy to help you plan!
The content on this blog was written by Mariah Arianna, copywriter and content blogger for photographers