How to plan a Winter Elopement

Winter has never been known as the “traditional” season to get married in Ontario. That’s one of the reasons we think it’s such a cool idea - break the mould!

Couples have a tendency to gravitate to the warmer months between May-October to host weddings, with the majority of weddings landing July through end of September. We’re here to share some reasons why we love winter elopements, along with some tips and tricks.

What we’re going to touch on here:

Benefits of Eloping in the winter months
What to plan for when Eloping in the winter
Where to Elope in the Winter
What to do during your winter Elopement

Eloping in the winter has its benefits. In Ontario, “peak wedding season” is considered May-October, with summer (July-September) being the most popular months. Planning your elopement during the ‘down time’ allows you access to suppliers who may otherwise be booked up in the summer on bigger more demanding events.

Ontario is less of a winter destination for travellers, unless you’re headed to a ski town or you are diehard snowmobilers traveling to the best trails. When you book “off peak” you are usually benefiting from lower costs, the ability to negotiate costs, and having more flexibility with availability at venues and accommodations.

If you elope in the winter, you’re setting yourself up for a honeymoon in a sunny hot destination when we’re all craving that extra hit of vitamin D and sand between-the-toes. You can literally have a winter staycation elopement and then hit the highway to the airport for an extended honeymoon in the sunny south. Sounds like something everyone needs (obviously hindered at the moment by this never ending pandemic)!

Plan, plan, plan. Every season has its challenges and “what ifs” - winter is no different. A few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

Dress appropriately. If your elopement is outdoors, dress in warm layers and wear the proper footwear. Throw those hikers/winter boots on and embrace the season! Have layers so that you’re able to remove and adapt based on the temperatures and the pictures you’re wanting captured by your photographer. Did you know they have fleece lined leggings? Did you know that leg warmers can look oh-so-cute in photos? Going more chic - grab a faux fur jacket and muff!
Weather. Weather is no more predictable in the winter. It seems to be even more confusing from year-to-year. Yes, you know you’re not going to be wearing sandals and sun hat… however; December-March can be very up and down in Ontario. There could be a skiff of snow, or 3 feet of snow. It could be 0 degrees or 32 below… Plan for your ideal and have some back up ideas in case your Plan A and B don’t work.
Timing. Days are shorter in the winter. Daylight ranges from 9-11.5 hours compared to the summer when we have closer to 15 hours of sunshine daily. The sun sets quickly and early, so you have to make sure that you’re scheduling your photography and transportation (hike-in and out, etc.) appropriately so you’re not caught in the dark. Having an earlier sunset is such a bonus for those moody dusk photos and moments by the bonfire! I can hear the crackling fire now. Sparklers, anyone?

Winter Elopement Locations. Winter is magic. There is something so serene and peaceful about winter - when the air is crisp, a fresh blanket of snow coats the trees, and everything becomes still & silent. Now transport yourself to this winter wonderland… do you see it? Do you see how romantic and perfect this could be? Whether you are a “winter person” or prefer winter from the inside looking out, there are options.

Here are a few winter elopement locations to inspire:

Elope in a rural, remote area where the world is untouched
Elope in a cute cabin the woods
Elope in a chalet or cottage, fireside
Elope in the Ice Caves
Elope on top of a ski hill
Elope on an outdoor skating rink/trail
Elope along a Hiking Trail, or outlook
Elope on a frozen lake

Winter Elopement Activities are such a fun way to add a playful element into your wedding photos. Are you a winter “sport” enthusiast - bring that into your elopement… whether it is the transportation to your elopement location, or just a cute photo opportunity. Snowshoe, downhill ski, cross country ski, snowmobile, skate…

We always think it’s lovely to include an activity that includes HEAT too! Whether it’s an outdoor firepit, roasting marshmallows, or sipping on hot chocolate...

What about a horse drawn sleigh ride - how romantic is that? Snuggled up under a warm wool blanket, maybe while you enjoy a glass of bubbly or hot apple cider as you take in the scenes.

There is really no shortage of amazing opportunities to tie-the-knot in the winter. This winter!

Reach out if you have an questions or want to start planning, we’d love to help :o)