I might not be a winter person (I’m more of a spring lover), but I do enjoy the cosy and festive vibes of a winter wedding. Planning a winter wedding can be a bit more of a challenge, so here are a few tips for throwing a great winter wedding:

1. Choose your venue with the season in mind. 

Winters in the UK are often cold and grey, with some surprise storms thrown in for good measure. The chances of you wanting to spend most of your wedding day outdoors are slim, so choose a venue that you like the look of on the inside rather than just its surrounding views or grounds, as there’s a good chance you won’t get to see much of them. A venue with plenty of indoor space, that’s cosy and warm, as that’s where you’ll be spending most of your time.

2. Be prepared for bad weather

Think clear umbrellas, a warm but stylish coat, and footwear that will keep your feet dry. If you’re planning on wearing a wedding dress and hoping to spend any time outside, consider one without a train or be prepared to carry it a lot. Also, if your wedding is in the countryside, bring your walking boots or wellies so you’re not too limited with your couple’s portrait locations. I’d also recommend kicking your reception off with a hot drink (especially if you had to transfer between venues). Mulled wine, mulled cider, hot toddies or boozy hot chocolates are all great options to warm your guests up. And don’t forget about including a fire pit and some blankets (if your venue allows it) to warm people up if it’s dry enough to linger outside.

3. Consider starting the day earlier 

3pm ceremonies are great in summer, but unless you want your whole day to take place after sunset, you’ll probably want a 12:30 ceremony. However, if that’s not possible, then think about reshuffling your day so that you can get all your essential photos done in daylight. Have a look at what time sunset is before you create your wedding timeline. Consider doing a first look before the ceremony. In case you don’t know what a first look is, it’s when the couple decides to see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It’s a lovely way of making your outfit reveal a little more private while also getting some natural photos of you together. You can also consider doing your family photos before the ceremony too.

4. Don’t forget about lighting.

Your venue is not going to be filled with natural light for very long, so make sure you add plenty of ambient lighting to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Have a good look at the lighting your venue includes and add lots of candles, festoon/fairy lights or a neon sign to create the vibe you want.

5. Book a photographer who knows how to use flash and can capture all the moments of your day beautifully!

This is good advice for any time of year, actually!

If you’re planning a winter wedding (or one in a different season) and you want a photographer who will capture all the love and joy of your big day, then get in touch! My books are open for 2026/27

So, you’re planning a micro wedding or elopement in Manchester city centre. Maybe you’ve always dreamt of tying the knot at the iconic Manchester Town Hall, only to discover it’s still closed. Now you’re wondering what else is out there. While Manchester Registry Office is a great option, its functional style might not align with your vision. Luckily, the city centre is home to several stunning licensed venues that offer charm, personality, and a unique backdrop for your small-scale big day.

Here are four perfect venues for your intimate Manchester wedding:

1. The Portico Library

If you’re a book lover (or even if you’re not), getting married in a cosy room surrounded by shelves of literary treasures could be just the atmosphere you’re looking for. The Portico Library offers a warm and intimate setting that’s steeped in history. This hidden gem is perfect for couples seeking a unique and cultured venue that feels both personal and magical. Imagine saying “I do” in the company of centuries-old books — a true love story!

2. 20 Stories

If stunning city views are your thing, 20 Stories is the place to be. Their ceremony room, perfectly sized for a small wedding, offers breathtaking views of Manchester’s skyline. After the ceremony, celebrate your nuptials with rooftop cocktails while soaking in the atmosphere. It’s modern, sophisticated, and ideal for couples who want a touch of glamour in the heart of the city.

3. Ducie Street Warehouse

For a chic, contemporary, and industrial vibe, Ducie Street Warehouse ticks all the boxes. This stylish venue allows you to have everything in one place. Start your day getting ready in one of Native’s trendy hotel rooms, hold your ceremony in one of their versatile spaces, and enjoy a delicious private dinner with your loved ones downstairs. Some rooms even offer access to a terrace, adding an al fresco option to your intimate celebration.

4. Manchester Art Gallery

Art lovers, this one’s for you! Exchange vows surrounded by larger-than-life paintings in one of the gallery’s elegant spaces. The Manchester Art Gallery offers a truly unique and inspiring setting that blends culture and creativity, making it an unforgettable choice for your wedding day.

Bonus Options for Venues Outside Manchester City Centre

If you’re open to venturing slightly further afield, here are a few more options:

• Elizabeth Gaskell House: This literary landmark is perfect for an intimate wedding with historic charm.
• Didsbury Parsonage and Gardens: A picturesque venue surrounded by greenery and character.
• Sale Town Hall: A classic and elegant option for a small ceremony.
• Altrincham Town Hall: A beautiful space with timeless appeal, perfect for creating lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

Your micro wedding deserves a venue as unique as your love story. Whether you’re drawn to the cosy charm of The Portico Library, the sweeping city views of 20 Stories, the industrial elegance of Ducie Street Warehouse, or the artistic grandeur of Manchester Art Gallery, there are plenty of alternatives to Manchester Registry Office that can make your day unforgettable.

If you’re planning your Manchester micro wedding and want a photographer who will authentically capture the joy of your special day, head here to learn more about my short coverage and get in touch!

1. Victoria baths

So let’s dive in. We’re starting off strong with Victoria Baths, one of the most unique Manchester wedding venues I’ve ever come across! I haven’t seen anything else like it. If you want a wedding that will be remembered by everyone, this one’s for you. I mean… you can get married in a pool! How cool is that? This venue is an old bath house with lots of character that is being lovingly restored. They’re licensed both, for ceremonies and receptions with 5 dramatic, quirky spaces for you to choose from. This includes the 3 empty swimming pools, as well as the Turkish Baths Rest Room with its Angel of Purity stained glass window. If you have a thing for old tiles, I promise you’ll absolutely love this venue. I’ve also performed here a few times with my choir and can confirm the acoustics are fantastic. The only downside is that it’s a little chilly in the winter, so I would definitely look at this Manchester wedding venue for a summer wedding.

2. Grub

This Manchester wedding venue is perfect for laidback couples who want a fun, well-organised, relaxed wedding in the city. It’s a very exciting space that works with a variety of street food traders and independent chefs specialising in a range of cuisines and dietary requirements. There’s an outside terrace with extra space for a food truck or an ice cream van, a hall that offers the perfect space for your wedding breakfast and their darkened cinema room is an ideal space for a great party which is wonderful if your crowd loves a dance. Then the rest it up to you, there’s so much autonomy on how you can use the space to make it your very own wedding. As they are an experienced wedding host, they’ll be super helpful with making recommendations on what has worked best in the past in terms of catering and decor. You can check out Seraphina and Simon’s wedding for some Grub wedding inspo.

3. Five Four Studios

If you are a creative soul and looking for a Manchester wedding venue that will allow you to fully express your personality as a couple, look no further. Five Four Studios is a 1970’s warehouse that has been renovated into a 600 sqm light filled blank canvas for you to put your stamp on. This means that you can turn your dream wedding into reality, and create a personalised, one of a kind theme! Boho, botanical, festive… you name it, it’s possible. I’ve never seen a Manchester wedding venue as versatile, sleek and stylish as this one!

Now, here’s some general advice when having a Manchester wedding. One thing to note is that Manchester weather can often be quite rainy. There’s nothing to lose in having a rainy weather plan and buying/hiring some clear umbrellas for nicer wedding photographs! If you’re wearing a dress, consider getting one without a train if you’re concerned about keeping it clean.

Also, Routemaster buses aren’t just for London weddings! Consider hiring one to transport your wedding guests from your ceremony to reception, or if you’re in the right location, go via canal.

Lastly, if you are looking for a Manchester wedding photographer, get in touch here! I’d love to hear more about your wedding plans over a cup of tea 🙂