Jocelyn and Nathan’s wedding was not just set in winter; it was rooted in it. Nathan proposed to Jocelyn in mid-December, so when they began planning their wedding at Old Farm Winery at Hartland, choosing a winter celebration felt meaningful. It echoed the season that started their engagement, and it made their wedding feel like a continuation of their story rather than a separate chapter.
Everything unfolded indoors: the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception all took place inside, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere for their 50 guests. They embraced the season without turning it into a holiday theme. A winter tree framed the ceremony space, and candles flickered throughout the room. Evergreen textures added depth with velvet accents, and dark florals brought richness and contrast.
Plan An Indoor Winter Wedding
They chose to do a first look, which gave them a quiet moment together before guests arrived. Winter light fades early, and sunset was around 5 p.m., so this decision allowed us to use the remaining daylight intentionally. The first look felt soft and emotional, unhurried, and gave them space to settle into the day together.
As the sun began to drop, we stepped outside briefly for portraits. The vineyard sky turned luminous in those final minutes before dark. The air was crisp, but the light was worth it. We moved quickly and intentionally, capturing portraits that feel distinctly winter. There is a softness to December sunsets that is hard to replicate in other seasons, and this added a quiet, romantic layer to their gallery.
Once inside, the celebration shifted into the evening. With seven hours of coverage, one photographer, and one assistant, the day flowed naturally from ceremony to reception. Candlelight filled the room, and the winery’s wood interior created depth and atmosphere.
A Winter Wedding In Virginia
Despite the intimate guest count, the reception was anything but subdued. The dance floor filled quickly, and the energy was built naturally. The couple had carefully selected their wine during a wine tasting at the winery before the wedding day, so the wine served during the celebration felt personal and connected to the space. It was not just a detail and was part of the experience they were sharing with the people they love most.
Jocelyn and Nathan’s wedding felt grounded, thoughtful, and entirely their own. This was proof that a winter wedding does not need grand gestures to feel unforgettable. It needs intention, warmth, and space for real moments to unfold. Their day had all of that. And it fit them perfectly. To know more about their venue, check my post “A Wedding Guide to Old Farm Winery at Hartland”.
