75 Festive Christmas Wedding Ideas
Christmas brings out everyone's wildest wedding fantasies. We're drawn to its technicolor lights, the grand sense of tradition, and elaborate ornamentation. Above all, the holiday spirit of togetherness magnifies what's already supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life. We've compiled some of our favorite holiday-themed ideas from real weddings submissions — consider them a gift from us to you. Good luck to all of our holiday brides!
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Reception Ideas -167980
This intricate and budget-friendly centerpiece is proof that you don't need to go overboard with flowers to transform your reception space into a Christmas wonderland.
Related: 25 DIY Wedding Centerpieces (That Don't Look Homemade)
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Ceremony Décor
Recreate this stunning backdrop with massive candles in different shapes and sizes.
Photo Credit: Bethany Ann Photography
Ceremony Décor
Buy hurricane candle holders in bulk, and fill them with sparkling votives and crystals.
Related: Stay Under Budget With These 25 Dollar Store Wedding Hacks
Photo Credit: Shoreshotz
Ceremony Décor
Light up your walk down the aisle with festive pew decorations (alternate them on different rows to cut costs).
Photo Credit: VP Studios Photography
Bridal Party Attire
If you prefer a darker color palette, add some holiday cheer with matching red pumps.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Bridal Looks
Dramatic lashes, scarlet lips, a high neckline, and a keyhole back: This bride pulls it all off effortlessly.
Photo Credits: Bethany Ann Photography
Groom's Style
According to ancient folklore, the Druids regarded holly as a sacred plant and believed it had magical powers of protection. What better plant to include in your groom's boutonnière?
Photo Credit: Bethany Ann Photography
Reception Ideas
The garland-wrapped staircase makes a picturesque room even more breathtaking.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Bridal Party Attire
Adorn the most adorable member of your bridal party with a back-tied bow.
Photo Credit: Katie Stoops Photography
Bridal Looks
Float down the aisle in a gown with textured tiers that are light as snow.
Photo Credit: Jessica Svoboda Photography
Fun Details
Include your favorite holiday tunes in the music playlist for a rollicking good time. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Zooey Deschanel and Leon Redbone is a sweet first dance pick.
Related: The Complete Guide to Wedding Music
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Photo Ideas
Take advantage of your town's holiday décor for some gorgeous wedding photos!
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Fun Details
Even the most reserved elderly relative won't be able to resist cracking a smile in these holiday-themed getups. Rudolph ears, anyone?
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Bouquets
Pinecones are a fun, wintry addition to a Christmas-inspired bouquet.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Ceremony Décor
At this evening wedding, each bridal party attendant carried a pillar candle as they made their way towards the altar.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Ceremony Décor
One of the biggest perks of being a Christmas bride is that if you're getting married in a church, it will already be decked out in all its splendor, so you don't have to order as many flowers and other décor.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Photo Ideas
Blow some snow into the camera for a memorable photo, like this one! (Save the hijinks until after the ceremony so that you don't get any wet spots on your dress).
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Photo Ideas
If only rings grew from pine cones and trees...
Related: 75 of the Prettiest Engagement Rings
Photo Credits (from left to right): Rachel Pearlman Photography and Kristen Hornberger Photography
Bridal Party Attire
These little guys stole the show with their knee-high socks, suspenders, and a hat Grandpa would wear.
Photo Credit: Jason Kaczorowski Photography
Reception Ideas
A fleet of reindeer is a fun addition to any party. The ones shown here are whimsical without being too literal or over-the-top.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Invitations
Green calligraphy and a red wax seal are chic homages to the holiday.
Related: Wedding Invitations by Style: Find the Right Fit for Your Wedding
Photo Credit: Sarah Crowder Photography
Groom's Style
Does your groom have a quirky sense of style? A patterned vest or tie helps him stand out from the groomsmen.
Photo Credit: Robin Nathan Photography
Bridal Accessories
Darling bows add a girly touch to these red-hot heels.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Reception Ideas
Rhinestone-encrusted roses and evergreen make this low-lying centerpiece a standout.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Reception Ideas
Give rustic pillars an upgrade by wrapping them in twinkling lights (ask your venue for permission first).
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Cakes
A five-tiered dessert masterpiece with its own VIP area isn't in most brides' budget. However, anyone can steal this trick and enhance their cake with a lush tablecloth — no six-figure digits required.
Photo Credit: Jaxon Photography
Invitations
Display your invitation on a mantel, surrounded by thick garlands and ornaments.
Photo Credit: VP Studios Photography
Bridal Party Attire
Midnight blue tuxes are made all the more dapper with plush scarves. We're loving how easy it is to spot the groom.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Bridal Looks
A bedazzled ball gown is a regal choice for Christmastime brides.
Related: 50+ Beautiful New Wedding Dresses You Need to See Now
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Bridal Accessories
Put the finishing touch on your gown with a ribbon belt featuring clusters of crystals.
Photo Credit: Ashfall Mixed Media
Cakes
When an all-white cake is illuminated with light, it's easier to spot patterns and delicate details that might be missed in a darker setting.
Photo Credits: Shoreshotz
Transportation
Transport guests with a colorful trolley or bus.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Reception Ideas
Make a dazzling first impression on your guests when they walk into your reception space. Stack gift-wrapped favors underneath a towering Christmas tree. Or, if you're not planning on giving out favors, you can gift-wrap empty boxes to create the same scene.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Reception Ideas
Or guide guests to their tables with snowflake frames.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Bouquets
Rustic and glamorous, this arrangement features flowers and greenery in contrasting hues and textures.
Photo Credit: Brogen Jessup Photography / Bouquet: Blooming Hites
Bridal Party Attire
The cherry shade looks ultra-flattering on all of the bridesmaids' skin tones.
Related: 75 Stylish Bridesmaid Dresses That Define #SquadGoals
Photo Credit: Lang Thomas Photography / Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Bridal Party Attire
Add a wintry feel to your groomsmen's boutonnières with Dusty Miller leaves and a wrapped stem in silver fabric.
Photo Credit: Echard Wheeler Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Antonia Christianson Events
Fun Details
Break out a little bubbly or sparkling wine topped with fun garnishes to toast the season.
Photo Credit: Nudrat Owens Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Anais Events
Bouquets
Striking and modern, this bouquet combines red blooms with different textures.
Photo Credit: Robin Nathan Photography / Event Coordination and Design: Alchemy Event Studio
Fun Details
Cocktail napkins with cheeky holiday sayings add personality to your bar setup.
Photo Credit: Foxtail Photography / Event Design & Coordination: La Cosa Bella Events
Bridal Party Attire
Live in a warm climate all-year round? Consider a light, breathable fabric for all of your bridal party attire.
Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography / Bridesmaid Dresses: Joanna August
Reception Ideas
Decorate your tables with boughs of holly topped with antique lanterns.
Photo Credit: Katie Osgood Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Jove Meyer Events / Flowers: Sprout Home / Venue: The Green Building
Reception Ideas
Dress up a bare wall with an oversized wreath.
Photo Credit: Katie Osgood Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Jove Meyer Events / Flowers: Sprout Home / Venue: The Green Building
Reception Ideas
Add geometric table accents for an urban-chic twist.
Photo Credit: Amy Harris Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Fête Nashville
Reception Ideas
A long table setting with greenery running down the center is on-trend while still maintaining a subtle holiday vibe.
Photo Credit: Conrhod Zonio Photography / Venue: Events At GlenLary Estate
Cakes
For a holiday twist on a "naked cake," top it with a decadent glaze and cranberries.
Photo Credit: Essence Photography
Photo Ideas
Add a Christmas-inspired bridal portrait to your must-have shot list.
Photo Credit: Freebird Photography / Wedding Gown: Celia Grace
Bridal Party Attire
Glittery gold gowns make a chic statement.
Photo Credit: Bryce Covey Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Bridal Bliss
Cakes
Replicate this enchanting dessert display for the holiday season.
Photo Credit: Arielle Doneson Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Shi Shi Events
Groom's Style
We love this stylish groom's velvet bow tie and feathered boutonnière.
Photo Credit: Kaemere Photography & Design / Planner: JBK Events / Accessories: Over The Moon Bridal / Rentals: CORT Party Rental / Hair & Makeup: Yuliana Huerta
Reception Ideas
Set a romantic tone for the evening with dramatic candelabras.
Photo Credit: Half Full Photography / Décor: Organic Elements
Fun Details
Design a regal tablescape with a gilded menu card, napkins, and even flatware.
Paper Goods: Mysty And Bella Designs
Fun Details
Have your caterer set up a "bubble bar" with champagne and a variety of fruits and syrups so that guests can customize their drinks.
Photo Credit: Brian Leahy Photography / Catering: Modern Art Catering
Fun Details
How cool are these laser-cut reindeer table accents?
Photo Credit: Steele Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Luxe Event Productions
Ceremony Décor
Decorate the chairs along the aisle with ornaments and berries that match your color scheme.
Photo Credit: Debra Gulbas Photography
Fun Details
Incorporate the festive occasion into your favors, like this couple who decided to give out Christmas tree ornaments.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Weems Photography
Reception Ideas
No Christmas-themed wedding is complete without darling ornament escort cards tied with a bow.
Photo Credit: Brian Dorsey Studios
Reception Ideas
Add holiday cheer to your reception space by filling glass vases with ornaments that match your wedding color palette.
Related: 15 Non-Floral Centerpieces So Stunning, You Won't Miss Flowers
Photo Credit: The Youngrens
Fun Details
For the perfect finishing touch, try adding a sprig of fir to the backs of your ceremony or reception chairs.
Photo Credit: Nine Photography on Ruffled Blog via The Bridal Detective
Reception Ideas
Pine needle sprigs make for fun and creative place cards.
Photo Credit: Sean Flanigan Photography via The Bridal Detective
Reception Ideas
Love all things rustic? Add an unexpected, whimsical touch with this pinecone installation.
Photo Credit: Janet Howard Studio via The Bridal Detective
Photo Ideas
If you're blessed with a White Christmas where you live, steal a private moment alone with your groom for a stunning snowy snapshot.
Photo Credit: Mila Jackson Photography
Fun Details
These showstopping table numbers feature an illustrated wreath motif and red tied bow.
Photo Credit: Mila Jackson Photography
Transportation
Dash away, dash away, dash away all. Santa would approve of a horse-drawn sleigh!
Photo Credit: Lis Photography
Bridal Accessories
A faux fur stole in white or ivory is a must-have for outdoor photos.
Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Weddings
Bridal Party Attire
Dress your bridesmaids in one-shoulder column gowns in a vibrant green hue.
Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Weddings
Invitations
Add some Christmas sparkle to your invitation suite with a gold belly band and a confetti insert.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Cakes
A cake with edible gold leaf imparts a luxe and celebratory vibe.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Bouquets
Or you can incorporate silver Brunia Berries for an elegant touch.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
