The holiday season brings a natural warmth and richness that can translate beautifully into wedding design. The key is to borrow seasonal touches that evoke festive comfort without tipping into kitsch or overpowering your wedding’s elegant tone! Below are thoughtful, refined ways to layer holiday-inspired details into your wedding so it feels both celebratory and timeless!
Photography: Brandon Smith Photography
Palette and Textures
Deep, sophisticated colors: Incorporate jewel tones like emerald, ruby, deep sapphire, or garnet as accents rather than dominant colors. Pair them with neutrals—ivory, soft gray, or warm taupe—to keep the palette grounded and wedding-appropriate!
Metallic accents: Brushed gold, aged brass, or antique silver bring a subtle holiday glow. Use metallics in flatware, candlesticks, signage, or a geometric cake stand rather than overloading on tinsel or sparkle.
Luxurious fabrics: Velvet linens, silk ribbons, and cashmere wraps add tactile warmth. Consider velvet table runners or chair sashes in a single accent color to create a rich, cohesive look without feeling themed!
Photography: Kris Labang Photography
Floral and Greenery
Focused seasonal foliage: Evergreen sprigs, Italian ruscus, magnolia leaves, or seeded eucalyptus give a nod to holiday greenery without feeling literal. Use them in table runners, bouquets, ceremony arches, and napkin rings!
Sophisticated blooms: Combine classic roses, anemones, ranunculus, or gardenias with seasonal textures like hypericum berries or holiday pods. Keep arrangements restrained and sculptural rather than overfull!
Monochromatic arrangements: A white-on-white palette with textural greens reads couture and crisp, while occasional berry or deep-flower accents introduce subtle seasonal warmth!
Candlelight and Mood
Layered candlelight: Group tapered candles, pillar candles, and votives in mismatched heights for a rich, luminous tablescape. Use hurricane glasses on outdoor tables to protect flames from wind while keeping the look refined.
Warm, soft lighting: Avoid colored or novelty lights. Instead, supplement candles with warm white string lights or festoon bulbs placed subtly to maintain intimacy and elegance.
Scent thoughtfully: Holiday scents can be powerful. Opt for a signature scent that complements rather than dominates—white cedar, soft pine, or a light clove-orange blend used sparingly in ceremony or lounge areas.
Photography: Mike Pham Photography
Tablescape Details
Elegant place settings: Choose porcelain plates with a minimal rim, linen napkins, and understated flatware. A single sprig of evergreen or a small bundle of berries tied with silk ribbon at each place setting reads festive and considered!
Refined signage and menus: Use hand-lettered calligraphy or a clean serif typeface on high-quality paper. Incorporate a small seasonal motif—like a single leaf or sprig—rather than an overt holiday graphic.
Thoughtful centerpieces: Low, elongated centerpieces made of mixed greenery and a few focal blooms keep sightlines open for conversation and maintain a polished aesthetic!
Attire and Accessories
Subtle seasonal fabrics: Incorporate velvet or satin into groom’s attire with a velvet jacket or a satin sash for bridesmaids. Choose one textured piece rather than introducing it across the entire bridal party.
Seasonal palettes for bridesmaids: Deep jewel tones or neutral winter hues can look formal and chic. Keep silhouettes consistent and let color be the only varying element.
Luxe outerwear: Offer cashmere wraps, tailored wool coats, or faux-fur stoles for photos and outdoor moments. Provide practical yet elegant options for guests if temperatures are chilly.
Photography: Visionari
Stationery and Small Touches
Seasonal cues in stationery: Envelope liners featuring a simple winter foliage print or a subtle tonal foil can introduce the season discreetly.
Welcome bags with purpose: Include a cozy item—gloves, a pocket-sized candle, or a travel-sized hand balm—with a card noting it’s for outdoor photos or evening chill. Choose understated packaging and neutral labels.
Signature cocktail with a twist: Serve a signature drink inspired by seasonal flavors—like a pear and rosemary fizz or a spiced apple cocktail—presented in elegant glassware with a minimal garnish (a rosemary sprig or a thin citrus peel).
Ceremony Enhancements
Framed with foliage: A ceremony arch dressed in asymmetric greenery and a few statement blooms feels seasonal without being holiday-themed. Keep lines clean and modern.
Warm guest comfort: Provide hand warmers, elegant blankets at each row, or a small takeaway hot beverage station if the ceremony is outdoors.
Music selection: Include a few instrumental versions of seasonal songs arranged in a classical style to hint at the time of year without making it a holiday concert.
These are a few ideas to help you with adding the holiday spirit to your special day! :-)
XOXOXO
(A Perfect Day)