As lockdown restrictions ease here in the UK, and the return of small, socially distanced wedding ceremonies (wedding receptions are not permitted unless you follow the Government guidance), many are finding the restrictions are just too much of a compromise to make for their wedding.

It is a really difficult time for couples planning their wedding right now, some may be considering to postpone, others might decide to scrap their plans altogether and start again in a year or so, and others might just be at the early stages of their planning.  I know it is incredibly hard for those couples that have made the decision to postpone, and while it is a difficult decision to make, the health and safety of your friends, family and suppliers is crucial and shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

For those that have made the decision to postpone, remember that your day will come.  You will get married, and it will be amazing and beautiful.  It will be even more special because those you love and those that mean the most to you, will be able to be there to share it with you.

Bride in white lace wedding dress with a bouquet in shades of blush, burgundy, deep red and greenery

For the many couples who are now facing a complete change of date or season for their wedding (key dates for 2021 have been booked up so quickly, you might not have been able to get your first date choice), I know you are feeling disappointed and disheartened that the original vision you had for your day might look a little different now.  That soft, light colour palette you had chosen for your summer wedding is just might not work in the autumn and winter seasons.

Hot chocolate and biscuits served on a gold rimmed tray

But wait, don’t throw away all your ideas just yet!  There are things you can do to tweak your ideas for a spring or summer wedding so it works just as beautifully for a change in seasons:

Colour palette
Keeping your original colour palette but replacing one of the shades with a complementing darker tone is an easy way of shifting your wedding look into a darker season.  As an example, if your colour palette for your summer wedding is neutrals and blush, add hues of plum or burgundy. 

For winter weddings, metallics such as silvers, platinum or gold add a subtle hint that it’s the festive season, without being too Christmassy.   Forest green or navy blue also work well for the darker months.

Wedding table centrepiece in a bronze vase with shades of blush, burgundy
Bride bouquet featuring spring peonies and foxglove, as well as lush summer garden roses

Florals
Add pops of darker toned flowers that complement your existing floral colour palette, and use some darker foliage too.  Not only does this add depth and interest but will also elevate your flowers for the new season.  Speak to your florist and swap out some of the flowers so they are seasonal to your new date.

Linens
Keep the lighter linens and accent with velvet ribbon or darker, textured napkins.  This can really bring a room to life, especially when paired with florals that have pops of darker colours.

Wedding table with greenery centrepiece, candles and dark linens
Luxurious tablescape with gold cutlery, glass chargers and dark napkins. A floral centrepiece of blush, pale pink and burgundy roses

Candlelight
You’d likely not have many candles on your décor ideas list for a spring/summer wedding as the nights are lighter, but lots of candles are perfect for darker nights and create as an added bonus, they create a really romantic and elegant vibe.  Just be sure to check with your venue if they allow real (naked) flame, and if not, there are some great LED alternatives.

Fairy lights
You might also want to think about ambient lighting for your reception space, a fairy light installation works so well in this instance.  Wrapped around pillars or beams, or festooned around the room, they also add interest when used outside too.

Greenery garland sweeting down a candlelit staircase
Festooned fairy lights wrapped around pillars and suspended from the ceiling

Menu
Think about changing your wedding menu to something more in keeping with the new season you are marrying in.  Your caterers will likely be more than happy to accommodate the change, especially if they work with seasonal ingredients.  Heartier dishes over salads are more fitting for an autumn or winter wedding.

Winter wedding meal of meat and vegetables

Need help, advice or guidance planning your wedding?  Discover how I can help

Image credits:  Bride bouquet – I Take You | Hot chocolate & biscuits – Martha Stewart Weddings | Centrepiece – Once Wed | Bride bouquet – Style Me Pretty, photo credit Jessica Kay Photography | Tablescape – Emily Wehner | Table setting – WedLuxe | Candle decor – Elizabeth Anne Designs | Fairy light decor – Natalie J Weddings | Plated food – WedLuxe