Tips For Planning a Duluth Minnesota Winter Wedding
There's something magical about a winter wedding in Duluth! You can just picture it – a snowy backdrop, a cozy indoor reception, and the warm presence of your loved ones as you celebrate your love. As a Duluth, MN, wedding photographer, I've had the honor of being a part of many winter weddings! It also means that I've gathered some tips to help you plan the best Duluth, Minnesota, winter wedding!
Tips for Planning a Duluth, MN Winter Wedding
Keep an Eye Out for the Weather
Check with Vendors in Advance
Dress Appropriately
Plan for Photos
Winter Wedding Décor
Keep Your Guests Warm
Keep Everything Under One Roof
Consider Overnight Accommodations
Winter Wedding Venues
Keep an Eye Out for the Weather
Keep an eye on the weather forecast! While snow can be a beautiful addition to your winter wedding day, too much can cause logistical challenges. Make sure you have plans in place for snow removal or transportation changes if necessary.
Check With Vendors in Advance
At the back of my previous point of keeping an eye out for the weather – ensure your vendors are prepared for potential weather changes or transportation challenges. Upon booking your vendors for your Duluth, MN, winter wedding, I recommend discussing all these scenarios when making your final decision to ensure your day goes as smoothly as possible!
And if you're still looking for your Duluth, MN, wedding vendors, here are my recommendations!
Dress Appropriately
With winter temperatures in Duluth, MN, remaining below 32 °F, you want to ensure you are dressed appropriately for your winter wedding. Look for elegant long-sleeved dresses, or accessorize with chic faux fur shawls. Don't forget about your bridal party – ensure they're warm, too!
There are better choices than high heels for icy and snow-covered pathways. Consider stylish boots or flats, and consider providing a shoe-check area where guests can swap out their winter boots for dancing shoes.
Plan for Photos
If you're hoping to capture some outdoor shots, remember that the golden hour is earlier in the winter. Coordinate with your photographer (wink, wink) to ensure you make the most of the natural light. And remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a coat between shots to stay safe and warm.
Winter Wedding Décor
For your Duluth, MN winter wedding, consider a color palette that complements the beautiful winter landscapes, like icy blues, rich burgundies, and shimmery silvers. And for décor, you could think beyond snowflakes – incorporate pinecones, evergreens, and candlelit centerpieces for a warm, rustic vibe.
Keep Your Guests Warm
Not only should you both stay warm on your wedding day, but you should also consider your guests! Heated venues, blankets, and warm drinks like hot cocoa or apple cider can make guests feel cozy and comfortable. People also naturally turn to comfort foods for warmth during the colder seasons, so you should discuss winter wedding menu options with your caterer!
Keep Everything Under One Roof
While it's common to have your ceremony and reception in different locations, for a Duluth, MN, winter wedding, I recommend opting for a venue that allows both to occur in one place. This way, guests won't have to brave the cold or navigate slippery roads twice in one day. Also, with only 8-9 hours of daylight during winter, we could use this time on your wedding portraits instead of traveling.
Consider Overnight Accommodations
For couples looking to extend the festivities and ensure the comfort of their guests, consider getting a venue with onsite accommodations! Not only does it eliminate the need for additional travel (especially appreciated when snow is piling up outside), but it also means that the celebration can continue into the wee hours of the morning.
Winter Wedding Venues in Minnesota
For your Duluth, MN, winter wedding, I recommend finding a wedding venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces so guests have the option to warm up. I also recommend visiting your venue during the daytime and the evening since your venue will look different depending on the time of the day! Since winter days are shorter, it's good to see what your venue would look like during most of your celebration and also plan out any lighting solutions needed.
Here are some winter wedding venues in Minnesota that offer cozy spaces for an indoor wedding celebration.
Clyde Iron Works
For those seeking a more industrial, rustic charm, Clyde Iron Works is a renovated space that pays homage to Duluth's rich history. Its high ceilings and open layout allow for versatile and completely customizable decorations and setups.
Kitchi Gammi Club
A historical gem in Duluth, MN, Kitchi Gammi Club provides a classic and sophisticated setting. Its various rooms cater to both smaller and larger receptions. This venue also offers onsite accommodations for you and your guests, which can really come in handy with the unpredictable winter weather!
Pier B Resort Hotel
Pier B is a beautiful waterfront wedding venue in Duluth, MN. It's great for winter weddings as it provides stunning indoor settings for your ceremony and reception and overnight accommodations!
For a deeper insight into these Duluth MN wedding venues (and some more on top!), check out this blog!
Asher James Creative | Duluth MN Photographer
I hope that these tips will come in handy as you're planning your Duluth, Minnesota, winter wedding!
And if you're looking for a photographer and videographer who is ready to capture your winter wedding and help you come up with the perfect winter wedding timeline, I'd love to hear from you! You can inquire with me here!
