It’s the most wonderful time of the year! With the holiday season in full swing, our social calendars have never been busier. While December is a popular month to get engaged, it’s not as popular for weddings — with one exception.
Coming up on December 21, the winter solstice is an attractive day to get married for those who want a unique and symbolic wedding date. Keep reading to learn the history behind this day and how to plan a winter solstice wedding that honors both your love story and the significance of this day.
History of the Winter Solstice
People have been celebrating the winter solstice for centuries. Compared to the summer solstice — the longest day of the year — the winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, followed by the longest night.
The solstice has grown to represent many things over the years including rebirth, hope, transformation, and light overcoming dark. Those who choose to get married on this date often focus on the new beginning they are embarking on as a married couple, using symbols of light and celestial details of stars, the moon, and the sun to tie it all together.
How to Invite Guests to Your Winter Solstice Wedding
Set the tone for your winter solstice wedding from the very beginning with your invitations. Instead of white stationary, use black paper with gold or silver lettering. For an added touch, use stamps with sun, moon, or star designs.
If cheesiness is your vibe, you can play it up even more with fun phrases like:
- We’re over the moon to invite you to our upcoming wedding.
- Join us for a celestial celebration of love and light.
- On the shortest day of the year, get ready for the longest party!
How to Decorate Your Winter Solstice Wedding
Since the winter solstice happens in late December, there’s a good chance it will be chilly! Use soft light and warm layers to keep the vibes going all night long.
Candles, lanterns, and string lights are a must. Line the aisle with them to light the way for you and your guests. During the ceremony, light a unity candle to symbolize your new chapter together.
Velvet is a popular fabric for winter weddings because of its warm texture and cool colors. Sprinkle it throughout your venue for a touch of cozy. Don’t forget to have blankets or shawls available for guests!
What to Wear at a Winter Solstice Wedding
A winter solstice wedding is the perfect excuse to have some fun with the dress code. Here are a few popular clothing combinations we’ve seen:
- All black. Ask guests to wear black while you and your partner don white. This is a beautiful way to represent love and light on your special day!
- Or, all white. Mix it up with a sea of winter whites.
- Metallic. Invite guests to wear gold, silver, bronze, or anything with sequins and sparkles.
Music for a Winter Solstice Wedding
A great soundtrack is the backdrop to any memorable wedding. Add these songs to your wedding playlist as a fun ode to the solstice:
- “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
- “Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay
- “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest
- “How Long Will I Love You” by Ellie Goulding
- “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by The Darkness
Celestial Snacks and Sips
Traditional winter solstice celebrations involve burning a Yule log. Instead (or in addition), consider a Yule log cake! Also called a Bûche De Noël, this classic holiday dessert will serve as an ode to tradition.
Mulled wine is another must-have for your winter solstice celebration. Not only is it delicious and warm, but the mixed winter spices are a celebration of the season.
Winter Solstice Wedding Favors
As your guests depart, give them something to mark your solstice celebration.
Candles and match boxes are all the rage these days. Print a custom label with a phrase like “With love and light” and include the date of your celebration for a special memento.
If you want a favor that’s more seasonal than symbolic, you could give ornaments or snow globes as a favor. A star ornament is the best of both worlds!
Potpourri is another great favor for a winter solstice wedding since it uses common winter spices. This Yule Mini Simmer Pot is sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Planning a Winter Solstice Wedding
The winter solstice is a beautiful way to celebrate your new beginning as a married couple. With celestial details and cozy decor, you can plan a winter solstice wedding that’s both sentimental and symbolic.
Not sure where to begin? Visit our wedding hub to create a free wedding website, manage your guest list, and find vendors in your area.
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
