10 Reasons to Have a Winter Wedding in Cincinnati (ft. Kate & Kaileigh’s Dream Day)
There’s something wildly romantic about winter. The way the light hits just a little softer, the way cozy moments feel a little deeper, the way love warms even the chilliest air. If you’re recently engaged and feeling the pull toward a winter wedding, this post is your permission slip to lean in.
And if you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s warm, personal, deeply aesthetic, and unforgettable, Cincinnati in the winter might just be your perfect backdrop.
Let me show you why, with the help of Kate and Kaileigh’s incredible winter wedding as the perfect example.
Winter Light is Magical (Especially in Downtown Cincinnati)
Kate and Kaileigh started their day at the Renaissance Hotel in the heart of downtown. The low winter sun poured through the city windows as they got ready in adjoining rooms, talking to each other through the open door, giggling with their best friends and moms, and sipping bevs while wrapped in soft pajamas (Kaileigh even wore holiday footie PJs!).
Winter light is soft, diffused, and golden in a way that summer light just isn’t. It adds that dreamy glow that photographers obsess over and trust me, your skin will thank you.
Cozy Getting-Ready Moments Feel Even More Intimate
They weren’t trying to be anything but themselves and that’s always when the magic happens.
From little spins to quiet hugs in alleyway corners, this session felt like a love letter to all the little things that make their story theirs. Playful. Grounded. Romantic in the most real way.
I always say I don’t just take pictures, I collect memories. And this one? It felt like a snapshot of their everyday kind of magic. The kind that is already golden.
You Can Create the Most Iconic Indoor First Look
Who says winter limits your photo ops? One of the most breathtaking moments of the day happened in front of the golden elevators at the Renaissance. Kate and Kaileigh met for their first look, both dressed in sleek pantsuits and fabulous shoes.
They gasped. They cried. They twirled. And they laughed about their matching vibes, overwhelmed by how perfectly themselves they felt.
Indoors doesn’t mean boring. It means intentional. And with the right eye (hi, it’s me!), it can become one of the most magical parts of your day.
You Can Create the Most Iconic Indoor First Look
Who says winter limits your photo ops? One of the most breathtaking moments of the day happened in front of the golden elevators at the Renaissance. Kate and Kaileigh met for their first look, both dressed in sleek pantsuits and fabulous shoes.
They gasped. They cried. They twirled. And they laughed about their matching vibes, overwhelmed by how perfectly themselves they felt.
Indoors doesn’t mean boring. It means intentional. And with the right eye (hi, it’s me!), it can become one of the most magical parts of your day.
Cincinnati Architecture Adds Romance Without Needing Leaves
After the first look, we headed to Music Hall for portraits. Even without blooms or bright greenery, the textures of the city provided the perfect backdrop. Historic buildings, red brick, ornate detail, it all added a moody charm that only winter could deliver.
They took family photos filled with deep hugs and authentic joy, then we explored Over-the-Rhine on foot, soaking up the energy of the city and capturing photos that felt like a romantic European getaway.
Winter Color Palettes Are Rich, Romantic, and Timeless
Their reception at Somerhaus was a masterclass in winter wedding design. Deep reds, fresh greenery, flickering candles, and personal details (like artwork of their dogs on either side of the ceremony space) made the room feel like an art installation made just for them.
Winter weddings give you permission to go deep. Think velvety textures, moody tones, candlelight, and richness that feels luxe but still cozy.
Outfit Changes Feel Even More Special in the Cold
One of the best moments? Kate and Kaileigh’s outfit change before their first dance. After their heartfelt ceremony and dinner, they surprised everyone with fun, party-ready looks and hit the dance floor in style.
Because let’s be honest, when the air is chilly, no one’s sweating through their second look. You can truly dress for the drama.
Your Vendors Have More Availability (and Attention)
Winter is the off-season for many wedding vendors, which means you have more options and often more dedicated support. Venues, florists, and photographers (hi again!) are able to be even more attentive when we’re not juggling four weddings in a weekend.
Kate and Kaileigh’s day felt so stress-free in part because there was time. No one was stretched thin, and everyone involved was present, calm, and fully focused on them.
You Get to Create a Cozy Guest Experience
Their guests arrived at Somerhaus and immediately felt wrapped in warmth. From the soft lighting to the candles and custom drinks, every detail whispered, "You’re safe here. You’re welcome here. Get comfy."
Winter weddings have the power to be grounding. They slow people down. They create space for storytelling, for real conversations, for meaningful memories.
And when it’s cold outside, there’s something extra special about warming up together on the dance floor.
Moody Aesthetics? Winter’s Got You.
If you love a warm, romantic, editorial look, winter is your season.
The moody tones of Somerhaus, the golden elevator light, the soft city haze, it all created a palette that looked straight off a Pinterest board. And with fewer hours of natural light, we lean into flash, candlelight, and intentional shadows that bring a cinematic edge to your gallery.
You’ll Remember How It Felt, Not Just How It Looked
The best thing about Kate and Kaileigh’s wedding wasn’t just how it looked (though… yeah, it was stunning). It was the feeling.
The laughter echoing through conjoining hotel rooms. The way they cried when they first saw each other. The way their friends hooted when they stepped out in their second look. The comfort. The joy. The tenderness.
That’s what I remember. And that’s what I’ll capture for you.
Whether you’re planning a December celebration or a February elopement, winter in Cincinnati gives you permission to slow down, cozy up, and fully sink into the story you’re writing.
And if you’re looking for a photographer who sees you, who hypes you up while blending into the background, who captures how your day feels, I’d love to be that person.
Tags:Photographer | Hanna Stump Photography
Getting Ready Location | Hotel Renaissance
Portrait Location | Music Hall
Venue | Somerhaus
Catering | Chef’s Choice
