Why not have an all-white wedding—bridesmaids in winter white, and groomsmen in white tie. Decorate your reception with paper snowflakes, “snow” covered centerpieces of magnolias, white mini calla lilies, and paper whites. Serve vanilla Baked Alaska for dessert. Top off the evening with custom favors of snow globes.

Throw your wedding on a mountain top at sundown—guests can ski (or cable car) down the mountain with sparklers to a chalet reception complete with fireplaces, Swiss Raclette for dinner and hot chocolate with dessert. For attendant gifts, offer tiny flasks of brandy to groomsmen and furry ear muffs to bridesmaids. Leave the reception by horse drawn carriage—a perfect photo opportunity.

Have a holiday wedding. Get everyone in the spirit with mini Christmas trees, swags of evergreen, wreaths and mistletoe. Serve plenty of eggnog and spiced cider. Decorate place settings with Christmas cookies and give away tiny ornaments etched with your wedding date. Of course, don't forget to put your wedding gifts under the trees.

All that glitters! Indulge in a Snow-Queen tiara for your headpiece and light-catching crystals for your veil. Let your bridesmaids shimmer with iridescent makeup and diamond jewels. Fill snowcones with glittery confetti for when you leave the church and around centerpieces; use small disco balls to make your party sparkle. And don't forget the ice sculptures!

New Year's Eve is the perfect time for a wedding. Now is the opportunity to go formal—bring out the jewels, long gowns and elbow-length gloves. Let champagne be the drink of the night and Beef Wellington the dish to impress. Equip your tables with retro paper hats and noise makers, and make sure your band plays Auld Lang Syne at the stroke of midnight.

Invite your friends to a tropical wedding get-away—Anguilla, Aruba, Antigua—Enjoy a barefoot ceremony on the beach with attendants in sarongs. Have a late lunch of light fish and tropical fruits to mark the beginning of an all-night calypso party. Decorate with seashells and orchids; and best of all—escape for your honeymoon on a mini island cruise.

Wedding planning made simple, from A-Z Claudia Hanlin's Wedding Library

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New York, New York 10028
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www.weddinglibrary.net

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