Welcome back to Martini Mondays, friends! It’s just me today — your bridal bestie Alex — because poor Chrissy is down for the count. Honestly, at this point, our house is just a rotating door of viruses. Generational living? Gorgeous. Germ sharing? Elite level.
But don’t worry… I still showed up with a martini because someone has to carry this team. And yes — today’s drink is the ultimate holiday oxymoron: a Hot Chocolate Frozen Martini. I know. It makes no sense… and yet it’s everything. If you haven’t made any of our martinis yet, start here. She’s fabulous, she’s festive, she soothed my sore throat all week — 10/10.
Since Chrissy wasn’t here to banter with me, I reached out to my current Winer and Winter 2026 brides to answer some of their burning seasonal questions. Let’s get into it!
✨ What fabrics are best for a winter wedding? I want glam but not frostbite.
You can absolutely be warm and stunning. My go-to winter-friendly fabrics:
- Silk Mikado — technically lighter, still structured, perfect if you want movement without losing shape. A true across-the-seasons queen.
- Heavy satin — nothing looks more expensive in the winter. A creamy ivory satin in December? Chef’s kiss.
Whether you’re indoors or braving the cold for photos, these fabrics photograph beautifully.
✨ Do I need a bridal coat, or is that… extra?
Need? No.
Should you? YES.
I love extra. Please be extra.
Think:
- a vintage fur moment (or faux — also gorgeous!)
- a velvet cape with a dramatic hood
- a cashmere wrap
Tell me that isn’t winter bridal FASHION. Give the snow something to look at.
✨ I’m having a December wedding. How do I avoid Santa’s Workshop energy?
Metallics. Metallics. Metallics.
Lean into winter glam, not “North Pole chic.”
Think: silvers, golds, champagne, blacks — rich, glitzy, editorial.
If you want a pop of color, pick one:
- deep evergreen
- rich burgundy
Not Kelly green. Not candy-cane red. Go moodier, richer, more sophisticated.
And if you can add trees everywhere? Evergreens with twinkle lights? Please do that.
✨ What’s a wintery signature drink that isn’t peppermint?
For my peppermint-haters — I see you.
Try:
- Cranberry spritz
- Pomegranate spritz (bonus points for a rosemary sprig garnish)
- Maple bourbon old fashioned
Or if your venue allows… my frozen hot chocolate martini. She melts fast but she’s iconic for showers, bachelorettes, or any excuse to drink chocolate.
✨ Is velvet for bridesmaids too heavy?
Absolutely not. Velvet is the moment.
It has a tiny seasonal window — December 1 through February 14 (my unofficial but correct rule). If your wedding is in that timeframe, velvet is luxe, rich, and stunning.
Evergreen velvet? Burgundy velvet? Stop it. Gorgeous.
✨ What shoes should winter brides wear? I refuse to ruin satin pumps in slush.
Honestly?
Have someone carry you.
But seriously — I’d bring backup boots and switch shoes once you’re inside. Don’t sacrifice your gown or your sanity for a slushy photoshoot location. Pivot. Change the plan. Protect your dress and your mood.
And I’m now on a mission to find the cutest “bridal booties” for winter brides. Challenge accepted.
✨ Will my guests complain about the cold?
Yes.
Next question.
Guests complain no matter what: too hot, too cold, not enough seats, too much ceremony, not enough appetizers, transportation wasn’t perfect… it’s universal.
Your job?
Throw a great party.
Feed them well, keep the drinks flowing, hire great music.
Happy guests = less complaining.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for hanging out with me for this solo episode! I hope you weren’t too bored without Chrissy — I kept it short, sweet, and cozy for you. She should be back next week, but if not… any volunteers want to be my guest host? I’m only half joking.
I’m going to finish my Chocolate Frozen Martini while the kids nap.
Stay warm out there — and keep sending your questions via Instagram or email. I love hearing from you!
Cheers, babes. 🍸✨
