Search

Draping, But Make It Dramatic

Winter weddings are the perfect excuse to go bold with your decor and draping is having a major moment. Think flowing fabric installations over your ceremony space, elegant ceiling swags that create an intimate reception cocoon or romantic backdrops layered in textures. It's a beautiful way to add warmth and softness to a venue, especially if you're working with modern architecture or open spaces. Bonus: draping also enhances acoustics, making it ideal if you're planning live entertainment (which you definitely should - more on that later!).

For artful, architectural draping and expert styling, browse top-tier decor and hire companies on SA Weddings – you'll find stylists who specialise in transforming spaces into works of art HERE.

1. NConcepts & Designs | 2. a|CREATE | 3. a|CREATE

Coffee Carts & Hot Chocolate Bars

A chic mobile coffee cart or gourmet hot chocolate station is the winter favour you didn’t know you needed. Enter The Magnificent Barista Boys, a fan-favourite on SA Weddings and for good reason. From custom-printed cups to signature coffee blends, their premium mobile espresso bars are the cosiest, most Instagrammable addition to your celebration. Whether you roll them out post-ceremony or serve warm drinks with dessert, this interactive touch adds charm, comfort and a whole lot of personality. Plus, it’s a favour guests will genuinely enjoy. Love this idea? Meet The Magnificent Barista Boys HERE.

Live Entertainment That Sets the Mood

There’s nothing quite like live music to make a moment feel magical. This winter, elevate your celebration with acoustic performers, jazz bands or even instrumentalists for your ceremony - it’s romantic, it’s memorable and it fills the room with emotion. Looking for something a little unexpected? We’re loving live caricature artists and illustrators as reception entertainment - guests get a personalised keepsake and it adds a fun, creative twist to cocktail hour! In the mood to interact with your guests, introduce epic live entertainment such as casino games or interactive professional entertainment sure to elevate your celebration! Love these ideas? Check out our Vendor Faves below:

Live Entertainment: harpNoted, Shout Music, Acoustic Element

Caricature Artists and Illustrators: Ted Key Events Illustration & Caricatures, Live Toons by Tyler, Live Cartoon Portraits

Entertainment: Gaming Events, Mr & Mrs M Wedding Games, Chatterbox

Winter Bridal Fashion - Luxe Layers & Bold Statements

Darling, winter was made for fashion moments. While summer brides go minimal, winter allows for drama, texture and richness. Think statement sleeves, ornate gloves, cathedral-length veils and gowns with layered lace and chic details. Brides are also embracing moodier makeup looks - deep berry lips, smoked-out eyes and radiant skin that glows against the chilly air. And let’s not forget the grooms. Luxe fabrics like velvet, wool and tweed are making a comeback, with jewel-toned jackets and rich layering details stealing the spotlight! Still on the hunt for your wedding attire? Meet our top picks for the winter wedding season:

Bridal Attire: The Bridal House, Silk Stitches Bridal Boutique, Timeless Bridal Couture

Groom's Attire: ZED Men

All the Ambient Lighting

If there’s one trend that defines winter weddings, it’s lighting and we say, the more the better. Twinkling fairy lights, crystal chandeliers, soft uplighting and an abundance of candles work together to create that dreamy, glowing atmosphere every couple craves. Whether you're hosting a dusk ceremony or a moody reception dinner, investing in quality lighting is key to setting the tone.

NConcepts & Designs | Candles4U | Baie Goeters

Seasonal Florals & Bold Winter Decor

Winter florals are all about texture and tone. Think rich jewel colours, dramatic centrepieces, dried foliage and unusual botanicals like pampas, branches, berries and orchids. We’re also seeing couples embrace darker palettes: oxblood, burgundy, burnt orange, navy and forest green softened with blush or antique ivory. From moody installations, to warm and rich jewel tones to chic sculptural tablescapes, this is your moment to be bold and artistic! Meet some of our favourite florists below.

Floral Artists: Winterbird Events, a|FLORAL, Pluk Weddings.

There’s nothing “off-season” about winter weddings. In fact, they’re the perfect opportunity to lean into drama, indulgence and creativity. From rich textures and layered fashion to magical lighting and warm, interactive details - this season is all about going bold while staying cosy. Planning your winter wedding? Head over to www.saweddings.co.za for the ultimate vendor directory and a daily dose of dreamy inspiration.