WINTER Elopement Tips

By XSPERIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY

Stylish Layers

Find a flowy dress that allows leggings underneath, preferably nude, and some warm fuzzy boots big enough to fit over thick wool socks. Send your groom to Halberstadt’s and let the experts there layer him up in this unique and snazzy outfit (above). (I’m seriously in love with this look!) Hats, mittens and a jacket are a must and can easily be taken off during the photo shoot.

Flowers That Last

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Fresh flowers don’t agree with freezing temps, but these beautiful dried flowers (above), created by Project Celebration right here in Minnesota, can outlast all of us. They also give an organic feel to the whole look, which I imagine the tough, outdoorsy couple willing to adventure out in the cold would be going for.

Cozy Essentials

Don’t forget to keep your fingers and toes toasty and warm. Hand and foot warmers are practical tools to slip into your mittens and boots, but think about ways to add to the photos as well. Bring along a thermos filled with hot cocoa and some peppermint schnapps for a toast!

BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE

Winter has a calming presence. It seems to be the time of year when everyone works at a slower pace, allowing us the opportunity to pause and reflect on life and, yes, love. If you choose this magical time of year to exchange vows, don’t let a little chill in the air steal all your fun!

PLANNING, PHOTO AND VIDEO Xsperience Photography

VENUE Rice Creek Weddings, Little Falls, MN

OFFICIANT Liz Reis-Merten, available within U.S.

FLOWERS Project Celebration

HAIR PIECE Green Alaska

SUIT Halberstadt’s, Crossroads Mall in St. Cloud, MN

DRESS Lulus

CALLIGRAPHY VOWS Tiger Lily Invitations

HAIR AND MAKEUP Nikki Popp, Royalton

MINNESOTA MODELS Jenna Klein & Kyle Boser

OFFICIANT JOURNAL Rustic Journals, Etsy

Heat Up The Space

Plan to keep yourselves and your guests comfortable by renting one or two outdoor heating elements to warm up. A campfire in a firepit or electric patio heaters are easy options that won’t take away from the ambiance.

Expert Planning

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Don’t hesitate to use professional planning services like those provided by Xsperience Photography to help you find the perfect location, whether it be a local destination in Minnesota or in the mountains somewhere out West.

A Break From The Cold

Consider a place with indoor and outdoor options so that you and your guests can escape from the cold if needed, or maybe even snuggle up by the campfire after the sun sets. The mountains can be a bit trickier with unpredictable weather and unreliable driving conditions in the winter, but there are some pretty amazing Airbnb options and lodges with views right off the deck if travel is limited.