Tips for a gorgeous NJ winter wedding at Brooklake
It’s popular for couples in New Jersey and New York to marry in the warmth of spring and summer when the flowers are blooming, when the days get longer and temperatures get warmer. But there is something magical about a late fall or winter wedding, especially at Brooklake.
Gaze out the floor to ceiling windows of Brooklake’s ballroom. Picture the sparkling backdrop of our rolling hills and the silence and the peace of falling snow. Our winter weddings are always romantic and absolutely beautiful.
If your heart is set on a gorgeous winter wedding and are thinking how you can make it more unique and memorable, here are some ideas.
Welcome your guests with a cup of warm cheer
We all want to feel warm, cozy and pampered when the temperatures fall. That’s why your winter wedding is the ideal time to turn up the coziness. You can have your guests greeted at Brooklake’s entrance with a shimmering tray of classic mulled wine or a signature hot toddy. Here are some warm cocktail ideas.
If you want to have an outdoor ceremony during the cold weather, or would simply like your guests to take advantage of the Brooklake veranda, scatter a few woven baskets filled with knit scarves and mittens, and place some throw blankets on the seats to keep your guests warm. A warming station is also a nice touch for an outdoor bar area. Your guests will be attracted to our outdoor fire pits.
Be aware of the average sunset times here in New Jersey
Check with your wedding photographer about the earlier sunset’s infamous “golden hour.” This is the prime time to take outdoor wedding photos, and it’s worth planning your ceremony around. Here’s a list of NJ sunset times in the wintry months: November 1st: 4:54 pm, December 1st: 4:32 pm, January 1st: 4:43 pm, February 1st: 5:17 pm, March 1st: 5:50 pm
Your winter wedding dress
Whether your ceremony is held indoors or outdoors, you are most likely going to spend a lot of time outside getting your photos taken, which is why you’ll want to think about staying warm and comfortable. Long elaborate sleeves with beautiful wintery details, such as sequins, pearls, crystals or feathers, may be too warm in the summer, but perfect for winter. A stylish wool cape or a cropped faux fur coat is perfect for feeling warm and cozy. Select jewellery items are perfect for completing the winter wonderland bridal fantasy.
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
Cooler temps might mean those cold shoulders need to be covered up. If you are planning for time outdoors, opt for bridesmaid dresses with long sleeves or faux fur wraps, so your girls won’t be shivering during the ceremony or photo-ops.
For groomsmen, there’s no limit to where you can take their winter wedding ensemble. Trade the suit jackets for nice warm sweaters or cardigans. You can even experiment with sweater vests, scarves, and heavy wool jackets. The possibilities are swoon-worthy.
Opt for festive decorations
Consider combining different whites with pale pastels, or a more dramatic white and black combined with silver and gold. You can even go all out red and green for a festive, holiday theme. Pull your color scheme through everything, starting with your invitations. This will create a cohesive theme throughout your wedding.
Fresh flowers look great with candles of different heights. Think of intricate details that add texture, like faux snow or crystals sprinkled on linens. Here are some ideas for gorgeous winter floral bouquets from Martha Stewart.
The sophisticated, light gray palette of the newly renovated Brooklake is the perfect, neutral canvas for any color scheme.
Set the mood with drinks that are fun and seasonal.
Let us help you choose a signature cocktail for your reception that reflects the season! How about a gingersnap martini, a cranberry mimosa or a special eggnog? Ice sculptures are glamorous and perfect for your winter wedding theme, and can also be a beautiful way to keep the cocktails chilled.
Choose a tasty wintery dessert
Surprise your guests with something unique, such as a hot cocoa station filled with small, seasonally inspired desserts. How about little, warm, molten cakes? Your guests will fondly remember these little, unique touches. Brooklake Events will help you get creative with all your menu options.
No matter the season, we promise to give you our undivided attention in organizing and executing your big day, from the atmosphere to the cuisine, and since we only host one wedding at a time, your special day will feel even more perfect. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your wedding unforgettable!
If you’re hoping to host a reception in 2021 or 2022, it’s essential to contact a Brooklake Event Specialist now. There are so many couples seeking a venue for a celebration in the near-ish future. We currently offer both in-person and virtual tours.
