The month of December is a magical time of year. While summer is often traditionally viewed as peak wedding season, there are distinct, sophisticated advantages to tying the knot during the winter months. From the serene atmosphere to the beautifully adorned aesthetic of December wedding venues, the most wonderful time of the year could be the perfect moment to celebrate your nuptials.
Why Choose a December Wedding?
Whether you are dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand estate celebration, the end of the calendar year offers a wealth of benefits. Here are just a few reasons why a December date is a brilliant choice for your “I do’s.”
- The “Off-Season” Advantage: Because December is considered the off-season for the wedding industry, you often have a much better chance of securing your preferred date. This flexibility sometimes allows for more budget-friendly options, giving you the leeway to invest more in your dream attire or a spectacular floral installation.
- Ideal Southern California Weather: In our neck of the woods, December weather is often quite mild and pleasant. Locations like San Diego and Murrieta offer stunning scenic views and crisp air that provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor photography without the summer heat.
- Securing Your Dream Team: With fewer weddings on the calendar, you are more likely to land an all-star full-service venue and vendor team. This ensures you have the undivided attention of the industry’s best to help realize your vision.
- Increased Guest Availability: Outside of the major holiday weeks, guests often have fewer scheduling conflicts than they do during the frantic “wedding boom” of June and September.
- A Built-in Aesthetic: A December wedding comes with a “winter wonderland” theme already integrated. If you love the scent of evergreens and the glow of a roaring fire, the month itself provides the decor. Many venues already have their halls decked with elegant, seasonal touches, allowing you to build upon a beautiful foundation.
- Stunning Natural Light: Capture your matrimonial bliss in the soft, romantic lighting of winter. Whether it is a tinsel-adorned garden setting or a majestic mountain backdrop, winter light provides a unique charm and wonder to your wedding gallery.
Essential Considerations for Your December Celebration
As with any season, planning a winter wedding requires a thoughtful approach to the elements. Here is how to keep your big day running smoothly:
Navigating the Holiday Calendar
A December wedding is festive by nature, but it is important to be mindful of the holiday calendar. Aim to avoid major holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa to ensure your guests don’t have family conflicts. While a New Year’s Eve wedding offers an especially vibrant mood, remember to check venue availability early, as these dates are highly coveted.
Preparing for the Elements
In Southern California, winter coincides with the rainy season. Choosing a full-service venue means you don’t have to worry about “unpredictable” weather. At Trademark Venues, we ensure a seamless contingency plan is always in place. Whether it’s moving the ceremony into a glass-enclosed greenhouse or a historic barn, your “Plan B” will be just as breathtaking as your “Plan A.”
Timing the Golden Hour
While winter light is gorgeous, the sun sets much earlier in the day. To capture those iconic golden hour portraits, work with your coordinator to schedule your ceremony and photography blocks earlier in the afternoon.
The Ease of a Single-Site Venue
You can save yourself—and your guests—a great deal of logistical stress by booking your ceremony and reception at the same location. A single-site estate makes it much simpler to transition between events, allowing you to focus on the celebration rather than travel times. Our venues offer cozy amenities like fire pits and outdoor heaters to keep the transition comfortable and chic.
Comforting and Creative Catering
Your menu plays a vital role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Lean into the season with our full-service catering team, Ten Carrot Catering, to design a menu of “comfort gourmet.” Consider adding a signature hot cocoa station or a spiced cider bar to your cocktail hour to keep guests warm and happy.
Layering Your Wedding Style
Even in milder climates, evening temperatures can drop. Embrace the fashion opportunities that only exist in winter! Elegant wraps, faux-fur stoles, and tailored coats add a touch of high-fashion glamour to the wedding party’s ensembles.
Start Planning Your Winter Dream Today
December is a season of joy, light, and new beginnings. At Trademark Venues, our team is here to help you handcraft an exquisite winter celebration that reflects your unique story.
Ready to see our winter wonderlands in person? Get started today by booking a tour of our Trademark estates and let us help you realize the big day you’ve always dreamed of.