What to Do If It’s Cold On Your Wedding Day: The Need To Knows

Australian weddings aren’t always blue skies and balmy afternoons. Sometimes the cold sneaks in, whether you’re up in the mountains, down by the coast, or just having a classic Melbourne day. If you wake up and there’s a chill in the air, don’t panic. With a bit of planning, you can turn a cold snap into a reason for your wedding to feel extra cosy, extra joyful, and maybe even unforgettable.

For the Alfresco Issue, we’re all about celebrating weddings as they really are – rain, shine, or shivers. Cold days can bring their own kind of magic. There’s something wonderful about breath fogging in the air, everyone bundling in close, and the excuse to pull out all those snug, romantic details. Some of the most beautiful weddings we’ve seen have happened with a heater running, a fire pit crackling, and hands wrapped around a mug of something warm.

Our first tip? Make sure you talk to your vendors. If you’ve got a sudden drop in temperature headed your way, your vendors will know how to handle it. Trust the people you hire!

Here’s how to keep yourself, your guests, and your wedding day toasty – even if Mother Nature forgets to turn up the thermostat.

Getting Ready & Outfits

Hair and Makeup: Cold weather is usually great for hair and makeup, but wind and rain can still play tricks. Add extra hold if it’s breezy, and keep a lip balm handy so you’re not caught with dry lips in your photos. A little hand cream goes a long way, too.

Clothes & Layers: Layers are your best friend. Sleeves are always going to be a fantastic option, but if our outfit is sleeveless or light, add a shawl, cape, jacket, or even a chic knit for warmth (and for great photos). Wearing a suit? Look for something wool-blend for extra warmth and think about adding vests, scarves or even a wool coat for outdoor shots.s. Think about thermals or tights under dresses. And don’t forget about finding warm options to help your wedding party, too.

You don’t need to stop with traditional options; amp up your cosy factor with fun touches like knitted covers, and even hot water bottles (like Celeste & Altan did here).

Footwear: Closed-toe shoes, warm socks, or even dress boots are a winner on frosty mornings or dewy grass.

Ceremony

Timing: If possible, move your ceremony to the warmest part of the day. A late morning or early afternoon ceremony means less shivering for everyone.

Seating & Shelter: Blankets or wraps on each seat are a thoughtful touch. If you’re outside, rent heaters or fire pits (if allowed) and make sure there’s somewhere sheltered from the wind.

Warm pockets: Pop disposable hand warmers into jacket pockets or bouquets for extra comfort during photos or the ceremony. You could even offer these to guests.

Hot Drink Station: Greet guests with mulled wine, hot chocolate, or tea. Even a thermos with coffee at the entrance can make a cold ceremony feel inviting.

Aisle Walk: Check paths for ice or dew and lay down rugs or runners to keep everyone steady and dry.

Decor & Details

Flowers: Ask your florist about flowers that hold up well in the cold. Native blooms and greenery are usually sturdy. Keep bouquets inside until the last minute.

Candles & Lighting: Candles, lanterns, and fairy lights make everything feel warmer. If you can, add a few extra lamps or strings of lights to boost the mood.

Cosy Decor: Pile up cushions, wool throws, or sheepskin rugs on benches and lounge spaces. Add baskets of hand warmers or gloves for guests.

Reception

Layout: If you’re in a marquee or barn, check that it’s well sealed and heated. Create lounge areas around a fireplace or set up a fire pit outside for late-night chats.

Menu: Comfort food wins again. Serve hearty mains, roasted veggies, and plenty of warm bread. A soup course is a crowd-pleaser. End with a dessert bar, toasted marshmallows, or warm apple pie.

Drinks: Warm up with Irish coffee, hot toddies, mulled cider, or chai lattés alongside your regular bar menu.

Table Details: Add candles or lanterns to each table for an inviting glow.

Photos

Chase the Light: Short winter days mean less time for golden hour. Plan your portraits for earlier in the day, and have a warm wrap or coat on standby between shots. Get creative – there’s something beautiful about a misty backdrop or a group huddled together.

Guest Comfort

Warm Up Spots: Set up a lounge or quiet room where guests can escape the cold. Add rugs, heaters, and a pile of spare blankets.

Dress Code: Let guests know if the celebration will be outdoors or in a chilly space. Encourage them to bring coats, scarves, and layers.