Spring and fall may be the most popular seasons for weddings, however, when couples book me for their winter wedding I get so excited! We usually get amazing, glowy lighting in the winter and I always love all of the cozy, romantic vibes. Not to mention, no one is sweating!

A great example of this is Ally and Mike’s wedding, which took place in January at the Estate at Independence. Despite the chilly temperatures, everyone had an incredible time and braved the cold for stunning outdoor portraits. The couple chose a venue that offered both indoor and outdoor settings, making the most of the crisp winter air while keeping guests warm and cozy inside.

The Estate at Independence Wedding – Midlothian, Virginia

The First Look

The wind might have made things a little challenging, but it also added a dramatic flair to their first look and couple portraits. The gusts created a sense of movement, adding intrigue and excitement to the photos.

Ally, in particular, was a trooper, embracing the cold and the wind with grace and a smile. She was determined to get as many outdoor photos as possible, and it paid off! The wind added a touch of drama and energy to the images, making them feel alive and full of emotion. The couple braved the elements, and it resulted in some truly unforgettable moments captured on camera.

The Ceremony

Ally and Mike’s ceremony took place indoors of The Estate at Independence, beneath a stunning chandelier, with natural light streaming through the windows to create an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The natural lighting complemented the beauty of the winter season, making the space feel even more magical.

The Reception

The reception at Ally and Mike’s wedding was nothing short of amazing. The natural light created a bright and airy atmosphere, while tons of candles and greenery added warmth and elegance. Guests couldn’t help but be drawn to the dance floor, which stayed packed all night long with friends and family celebrating the couple’s love.

Tips for a Successful Winter Wedding:

1. Plan for the weather: If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or photos, make sure to have a backup plan in case of snow or rain. Consider offering guests blankets or shawls to keep them warm.
2. Maximize daylight: Winter days are shorter, so it’s important to plan your ceremony and reception around the daylight hours to ensure you get enough natural light for photos. Ally and Mike’s wedding made the most of golden hour, with breathtaking, soft golden light for their couple portraits, giving them timeless, glowing photos to cherish.
3. Keep your guests comfortable: Have warm beverages and cozy spaces where guests can relax and warm up, especially if they’re waiting outside.
4. Think about the heat: Indoor venues can get warm with heaters, so remind guests to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Ally and Mike’s wedding at The Estate at Independence was such a fun day filled with love and laughter. From the breathtaking ceremony to the lively reception, every moment was a beautiful reflection of their love story. If you are planning a winter wedding, make sure to take a look at The Estate at Independence—it’s the perfect venue for making your winter wedding dreams come true!

Vendor Team

Venue and Catering: The Estate at Independence

Florist: Flower Moxie

Photographer: Leah Redding Photography

Videographer: Timeless

DJ: Black Tie Entertainment

Dessert: Gelati Celesti

Dress: Blue Sage Bridal

Hair + Makeup: Beauty Soiree

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