Say I Do In Style – The Winter Edition

There’s something truly enchanting about a winter wedding, filled with twinkling lights and rich, jewel-like tones; it’s undoubtedly the season for splendour. The leaves are beautiful colours of russet and gold, and there is a wonderful crispness and excitement in the air. Guests embrace opulent silks, velvets and furs to keep warm, and the overall feeling is cosy yet glamorous, and very special. 

Make the most of the long, dark nights with wintry accents in your decor such as glimmering candlelight, foliage and rich colours in your floral arrangements, and of course added drama to the dress.

World-renowned wedding dress designer Caroline Castigliano adds, “A winter wedding offers such a fantastic opportunity to be creative with everything from the location, the flowers and, of course, the dress! Beading, sequins and appliqué details feature strongly in the 2024 wedding dress trends, adding exquisite detailing to elevate your look – perfect for winter wedding glamour.”

Explore three locations for the perfect winter wonderland wedding, complete with style recommendations for the season.

Historic Elegance at Brown’s Hotel, London

Quintessentially British, unmistakably Brown’s Hotel – set in Mayfair, London’s most stylish neighbourhood, this elegant hotel has a long history with romance. Indeed, American President Theodore Roosevelt stayed at Brown’s before his wedding to Edith Kermit Carow, so couples planning their big day here will be in good company. 

Sip Champagne with your bridal party in your luxuriant suite as you prepare for your big moment. And the dress? Castigliano recommends keeping it clean, chic and sophisticated, just like this classic London setting: “I’d advise something like our Notting Hill gown, which features simple lines offset by lightly puffed, tailored sleeves. Perfectly balanced proportions and a fluid fit-and-flare skirt add movement and flare''.

Picture the white marble fireplace in the Roosevelt Room dripping with ruby-red blooms and forest-green foliage as you say your vows, or toasting your new spouse in the Niagara Room, where high ceilings, glorious natural lighting, and traditional detailing perfectly set the scene. For more intimate celebrations, the Clarendon Room, with its ornate Victorian ceilings and sparkling chandeliers, creates a dramatic setting for your wedding banquet.

Timeless Grandeur at The Balmoral, Edinburgh

Considered a sign of prosperity, a dusting of snow on your Big Day only serves to enhance the magic of the celebration. For the best chance of a white wedding, head to Edinburgh where The Balmoral’s grandeur, coupled with striking views of the city’s historic castle, ensure a fairytale beginning.

Imagine a red-carpet arrival, accompanied by bagpipes – according to Scottish superstition, if the bride is announced by the piper, a happy marriage is guaranteed – as you sweep through the Sir Walter Scott Suite ballroom, your aisle accented by marble pillars.

Here, Castigliano advises brides to select a gown that matches the dramatic romance of the Scottish capital. “Our ‘Liberty’ gown would be an exquisite choice; crafted from Italian embroidered tulle, this showstopping gown shimmers with mesmerising effect as it catches the light - perfect for a candle-filled ballroom.”

Adding a lace sleeve, or even a cape for a touch of drama will keep the winter chill at bay as you enjoy panoramic views across the fairytale city from the private terrace - the perfect setting for some romantic photos with your love. Later, raise a toast with traditional Scotch whisky for

Eternal Romance at Hotel de la Ville, Rome

The city of St Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, Rome is a stunning setting for true romantics. Steeped in history, and perched atop the famed Spanish Steps, Hotel de la Ville promises effortless Italian glamour, against a stunning cityscape.

Say ‘I Do’ in the Ivy Room, where abundant natural light highlights the undulating green and white floral patterns adorning the walls, reminiscent of an elegant winter garden. Let the celebration continue at Cielo Terrace, our 6th and 7th-floor roof terrace bar, and raise a glass of Champagne with your guests as the Eternal City sparkles below you.

In a magnificent location like Rome, Castigliano suggests choosing a statement gown that reflects the rich history and opulence of the city. “I would recommend the stunning simplicity of our Italian Mikado ‘Tribute’ gown – accessorise with a high neck lace shrug for the day, and switch to whimsical puff sleeves for the evening’s frivolities.”

The winter months in Rome are quieter, and filled with a wonderful burst of afternoon light followed by long, stretching shadows that play across the monuments – perfect for an evening city photoshoot with your new spouse.

A Rocco Forte Hotels wedding starts by perfectly matching your vision to the most beautiful venues in Europe. You pick the mood, we’ll handle the rest, down to the very last detail. For more information, please get in touch via rfinsider@roccofortehotels.com